words.json

[{"id":388,"slug":"anemic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"anemic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"anemic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking energy and vigor"},{"type":"example","content":"After three straight shows, the lead actress gave an <strong>anemic</strong> performance the fourth night, barely speaking loudly enough for those in the back rows to hear."}]},{"id":389,"slug":"anodyne","front":[{"type":"word","content":"anodyne"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"anodyne","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something that soothes or relieves pain"},{"type":"example","content":"Muzak, which is played in department stores, is intended to be an <strong>anodyne</strong>, but is often so cheesy and over-the-top that customers become irritated."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> inoffensive"},{"type":"example","content":"Wilbur enjoyed a spicy Mexican breakfast, but Jill preferred a far more <strong>anodyne</strong> meal in the mornings."}]},{"id":406,"slug":"approbatory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"approbatory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"approbatory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> expressing praise or approval"},{"type":"example","content":"Although it might not be her best work, Hunter's new novel has received generally <strong>approbatory</strong> reviews."}]},{"id":415,"slug":"artlessness","front":[{"type":"word","content":"artlessness"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"artlessness","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the quality of innocence"},{"type":"example","content":"I, personally, found the <strong>artlessness</strong> of her speech charming."}]},{"id":458,"slug":"bowdlerize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bowdlerize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bowdlerize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> edit by omitting or modifying parts considered indelicate"},{"type":"example","content":"To receive an R rating, the entire movie was <strong>bowdlerized</strong> because it contained so much violence and grotesque subject matter."}]},{"id":480,"slug":"cede","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cede"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cede","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> relinquish possession or control over"},{"type":"example","content":"Eventually, all parents must <strong>cede</strong> control of their growing childrens' educations and allow their offspring some autonomy."}]},{"id":485,"slug":"charlatan","front":[{"type":"word","content":"charlatan"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"charlatan","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a flamboyant deceiver; one who attracts customers with tricks or jokes"},{"type":"example","content":"You may call him a \"motivational speaker,\" but I call him a <strong>charlatan</strong>--he doesn't have any idea what he's really talking about."}]},{"id":562,"slug":"derelict","front":[{"type":"word","content":"derelict"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"derelict","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of a person) not doing one's duties"},{"type":"example","content":"The teacher was <strong>derelict</strong> in her duties because she hadn't graded a single student paper in three weeks."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> (of a building) abandoned"},{"type":"example","content":"At one time the waterfront factories were busy and productive, but now they stand <strong>derelict</strong> and will be torn down."}]},{"id":608,"slug":"duplicity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"duplicity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"duplicity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> deceitfulness, pretending to want one thing but interested in something else"},{"type":"example","content":"A life of espionage is one of <strong>duplicity</strong>: an agent must pretend to be a totally different person than who she or he actually is."}]},{"id":617,"slug":"effrontery","front":[{"type":"word","content":"effrontery"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"effrontery","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to"},{"type":"example","content":"The skateboarders acted with <strong>effrontery</strong>, skating through the church grounds and spray-painting signs warning trespassers."}]},{"id":637,"slug":"enjoin","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enjoin"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enjoin","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> give instructions to or direct somebody to do something with authority"},{"type":"example","content":"The government agency <strong>enjoined</strong> the chemical company to clean up the hazardous dump it had created over the years."}]},{"id":640,"slug":"enthrall","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enthrall"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enthrall","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> hold spellbound"},{"type":"example","content":"She was so <strong>enthralled</strong> by the movie that she never heard people screaming, \"Fire! Fire!\" in the neighboring theater."}]},{"id":646,"slug":"epiphany","front":[{"type":"word","content":"epiphany"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"epiphany","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a sudden revelation or moment of insight"},{"type":"example","content":"Gary one day had an <strong>epiphany</strong> that he was a people person; he promptly quit his factory job and began working as a salesman."}]},{"id":687,"slug":"flummox","front":[{"type":"word","content":"flummox"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"flummox","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be a mystery or bewildering to"},{"type":"example","content":"Mary's behavior completely <strong>flummoxes</strong> me: I never have any idea what her motivations might be."}]},{"id":700,"slug":"gaffe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gaffe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gaffe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a socially awkward or tactless act"},{"type":"example","content":"In a famous <strong>gaffe</strong>, Vice President Quayle attempted to correct the spelling of a grade school student, only to find that the child was correct."}]},{"id":715,"slug":"grandiloquent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"grandiloquent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"grandiloquent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> puffed up with vanity"},{"type":"example","content":"The dictator was known for his <strong>grandiloquent</strong> speeches, puffing his chest out and using big, important-sounding words."}]},{"id":722,"slug":"hagiographic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hagiographic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hagiographic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> excessively flattering toward someone's life or work"},{"type":"example","content":"Most accounts of Tiger Woods's life were <strong>hagiographic</strong>, until, that is, his affairs made headlines."}]},{"id":723,"slug":"hail","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hail"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hail","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> enthusiastically acclaim or celebrate something"},{"type":"example","content":"Many college superstar athletes are <strong>hailed</strong> as the next big thing, but then flop at the professional level."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":743,"slug":"illustrious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"illustrious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"illustrious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> widely known and esteemed; having or conferring glory"},{"type":"example","content":"Einstein was possibly the most <strong>illustrious</strong> scientist in recent history."}]},{"id":757,"slug":"importune","front":[{"type":"word","content":"importune"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"importune","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> beg persistently and urgently"},{"type":"example","content":"After weeks of <strong>importuning</strong> the star to meet for a five-minute interview, the journalist finally got what she wanted."}]},{"id":763,"slug":"impute","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impute"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impute","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> attribute (responsibility or fault) to something"},{"type":"example","content":"He <strong>imputed</strong> his subpar performance on the test to a combination of stress and poor sleep."}]},{"id":794,"slug":"insouciance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"insouciance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"insouciance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> lack of concern"},{"type":"example","content":"Surprisingly, Hank had become a high-powered CEO; his high school friends remembered him as \"Hanky Panky\", who shrugged off each failed class with <strong>insouciance</strong>."}]},{"id":821,"slug":"lampoon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lampoon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lampoon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> ridicule with satire"},{"type":"example","content":"Mark Twain understood that <strong>lampooning</strong> a bad idea with humor was the most effective criticism."}]},{"id":829,"slug":"litany","front":[{"type":"word","content":"litany"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"litany","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> any long and tedious account of something"},{"type":"example","content":"Mr. Rogers spoke to a Senate committee and did not give a <strong>litany</strong> of reasons to keep funding the program, but instead, appealed to the basic human decency of all present."}]},{"id":832,"slug":"lugubrious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lugubrious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lugubrious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> excessively mournful"},{"type":"example","content":"At the funeral, <strong>lugubrious</strong> songs filled the small church."}]},{"id":843,"slug":"maunder","front":[{"type":"word","content":"maunder"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"maunder","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> wander aimlessly"},{"type":"example","content":"Max liked to <strong>maunder</strong> down by the seaside and pick up whatever sea shells he would stumble upon."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly"},{"type":"example","content":"After drinking two espressos each, the animated couple would <strong>maunder</strong> loudly, annoying the other patrons in the coffee shop."}]},{"id":861,"slug":"mordant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mordant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mordant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> biting and caustic in thought, manner, or style"},{"type":"example","content":"While Phil frequently made <strong>mordant</strong> remarks about company policy overall, he always was considerably gentler in discussing any person in particular."}]},{"id":862,"slug":"moribund","front":[{"type":"word","content":"moribund"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"moribund","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being on the point of death; declining rapidly losing all momentum in progress"},{"type":"example","content":"Whether you like it or not, jazz as a genre is <strong>moribund</strong> at best, possibly already dead."}]},{"id":906,"slug":"pecuniary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pecuniary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pecuniary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> relating to or involving money"},{"type":"example","content":"The defendent was found guilty and had to serve a period of community service as well as pay <strong>pecuniary</strong> damages to the client."}]},{"id":919,"slug":"perspicacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perspicacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perspicacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> acutely insightful and wise"},{"type":"example","content":"Many modern observers regard Eisenhower as <strong>perspicacious</strong>, particularly in his accurate prediction of the growth of the military."}]},{"id":934,"slug":"plucky","front":[{"type":"word","content":"plucky"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"plucky","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by courage and determination"},{"type":"example","content":"Some scouts initially doubted Pedroia because of his short stature, but he is a <strong>plucky</strong> player, surprising everyone with his boundless energy and fierce determination."}]},{"id":938,"slug":"portentous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"portentous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"portentous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> ominously prophetic"},{"type":"example","content":"When the captain and more than half the officers were sick on the very first night of the voyage, many of the passengers felt this was <strong>portentous</strong>, but the rest of the voyage continued without any problems."}]},{"id":953,"slug":"primacy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"primacy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"primacy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the state of being first in importance"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>primacy</strong> of Apple Computers is not guaranteed, as seen in the recent lawsuits and weak growth."}]},{"id":955,"slug":"probity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"probity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"probity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> integrity, strong moral principles"},{"type":"example","content":"The ideal politician would have the <strong>probity</strong> to lead, but reality gravely falls short of the ideal of morally upright leaders."}]},{"id":959,"slug":"prognostication","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prognostication"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prognostication","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a statement made about the future"},{"type":"example","content":"When the Senator was asked about where the negotiations would lead, he said that any guess he could make would be an unreliable <strong>prognostication</strong>."}]},{"id":961,"slug":"prolixity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prolixity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prolixity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> boring verbosity"},{"type":"example","content":"I loved my grandfather dearly, but his <strong>prolixity</strong> would put me to sleep, regardless of the topic."}]},{"id":967,"slug":"provident","front":[{"type":"word","content":"provident"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"provident","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> careful in regard to your own interests; providing carefully for the future"},{"type":"example","content":"In a move that hardly could be described as <strong>provident</strong>, Bert spent his entire savings on a luxurious cruise, knowing that other bills would come due a couple months later."}]},{"id":972,"slug":"punctilious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"punctilious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"punctilious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by precise accordance with details"},{"type":"example","content":"The colonel was so <strong>punctilious</strong> about enforcing regulations that men feel compelled to polish even the soles of their shoes."}]},{"id":974,"slug":"quail","front":[{"type":"word","content":"quail"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"quail","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> draw back, as with fear or pain"},{"type":"example","content":"Craig always claimed to be a fearless outdoorsman, but when the thunderstorm engulfed the valley, he <strong>quailed</strong> at the thought of leaving the safety of his cabin."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":981,"slug":"raconteur","front":[{"type":"word","content":"raconteur"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"raconteur","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person skilled in telling anecdotes"},{"type":"example","content":"Jude is entertaining, but he is no <strong>raconteur</strong>: beyond the handful of amusing stories he has memorized, he has absolutely no spontaneous story-telling ability."}]},{"id":991,"slug":"recapitulation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"recapitulation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"recapitulation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a summary (think of recap)"},{"type":"example","content":"Every point of the professors lesson was so clear that the students felt his concluding <strong>recapitulation</strong> was not necessary."}]},{"id":996,"slug":"redoubtable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"redoubtable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"redoubtable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> inspiring fear or awe"},{"type":"example","content":"On television basketball players don't look that tall, but when you stand in front of a seven-foot tall NBA player, he is truly <strong>redoubtable</strong>."}]},{"id":1021,"slug":"sagacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sagacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sagacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having good judgement and acute insight"},{"type":"example","content":"Steve Jobs is surely one of the most <strong>sagacious</strong> CEOs, making Apple one of the most recognizable and valuable companies in the world."}]},{"id":1028,"slug":"semblance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"semblance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"semblance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an outward or token appearance or form that is deliberately misleading"},{"type":"example","content":"While the banker maintained a <strong>semblance</strong> of respectability in public, those who knew him well were familiar with his many crimes."}]},{"id":1032,"slug":"sinecure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sinecure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sinecure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an office that involves minimal duties"},{"type":"example","content":"The position of Research Director is a <strong>sinecure</strong>: the job entails almost no responsibilities, nor does the person in that position have to answer to anyone."}]},{"id":1037,"slug":"solecism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"solecism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"solecism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a socially awkward or tactless act"},{"type":"example","content":"Mother Anna was always on guard against any <strong>solecism</strong> from her children and scolded them immediately if any of them talked out of place in public."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1075,"slug":"temerity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"temerity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"temerity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> fearless daring"},{"type":"example","content":"No child has the <strong>temerity</strong> to go in the rundown house at the end of the street and see if it is haunted."}]},{"id":1103,"slug":"umbrage","front":[{"type":"word","content":"umbrage"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"umbrage","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a feeling of anger caused by being offended"},{"type":"example","content":"Since he was so in love with her, he took <strong>umbrage</strong> at her comments, even though she had only meant to gently tease him."}]},{"id":1110,"slug":"unforthcoming","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unforthcoming"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unforthcoming","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> uncooperative, not willing to give up information"},{"type":"example","content":"The teacher demanded to know who broke the window while he was out of the room, but the students understandably were <strong>unforthcoming</strong>."}]},{"id":1134,"slug":"vitriolic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vitriolic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vitriolic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> harsh or corrosive in tone"},{"type":"example","content":"While the teacher was more moderate in her criticism of the other student's papers, she was <strong>vitriolic</strong> toward Peter's paper, casting every flaw in the harshest light."}]},{"id":422,"slug":"asperity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"asperity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"asperity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> harshness of manner"},{"type":"example","content":"The editor was known for his <strong>asperity</strong>, often sending severe letters of rejection to amateur writers."}]},{"id":481,"slug":"celerity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"celerity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"celerity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> speed, rapidity"},{"type":"example","content":"We aim to respond to customers' questions with <strong>celerity</strong> and accuracy, with no longer than a 24 hour wait time."}]},{"id":525,"slug":"corollary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"corollary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"corollary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a practical consequence that follows naturally"},{"type":"example","content":"A <strong>corollary</strong> of Hurricane Sandy, which ravaged the east coast of the U.S., is a push to build higher sea walls to protect against future hurricanes."}]},{"id":527,"slug":"cosset","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cosset"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cosset","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> treat with excessive indulgence"},{"type":"example","content":"The king and queen <strong>cosseted</strong> the young prince, giving him a prized miniature pony for his fifth birthday."}]},{"id":535,"slug":"crestfallen","front":[{"type":"word","content":"crestfallen"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"crestfallen","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> brought low in spirit"},{"type":"example","content":"I asked Maria on a date and she refused without a moment's thought; I was <strong>crestfallen</strong>."}]},{"id":537,"slug":"crystallize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"crystallize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"crystallize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause to take on a definite and clear shape"},{"type":"example","content":"Only after fifteen minutes of brainstorming did Samantha's ideas for the essay <strong>crystallize</strong>."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":548,"slug":"decry","front":[{"type":"word","content":"decry"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"decry","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> express strong disapproval of"},{"type":"example","content":"The entire audience erupted in shouts and curses, <strong>decrying</strong> the penalty card issued by the referee."}]},{"id":561,"slug":"denouement","front":[{"type":"word","content":"denouement"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"denouement","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the final resolution of the many strands of a literary or dramatic work; the outcome of a complex sequence of events"},{"type":"example","content":"At the <strong>denouement</strong> of the movie, all questions were answered, and the true identity of the robber was revealed."}]},{"id":597,"slug":"dispensation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dispensation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dispensation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an exemption from a rule or obligation"},{"type":"example","content":"Since her father is a billionaire, she is given <strong>dispensation</strong> from many of the school's policies."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":607,"slug":"dovetail","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dovetail"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dovetail","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> fit together tightly, as if by means of an interlocking joint"},{"type":"example","content":"Although Darwin's evolution and Mendel's genetics were developed in isolation from one another, they <strong>dovetail</strong> very well."}]},{"id":634,"slug":"encumber","front":[{"type":"word","content":"encumber"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"encumber","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> hold back"},{"type":"example","content":"The costume <strong>encumbered</strong> all my movements and caused me to sweat profusely."}]},{"id":648,"slug":"equitable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"equitable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"equitable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> fair to all parties as dictated by reason and conscience"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>equitable</strong> distribution of ice cream to a group of 5 year olds will ensure little to no fighting\u2014at least until the ice cream is gone."}]},{"id":682,"slug":"firebrand","front":[{"type":"word","content":"firebrand"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"firebrand","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> someone who deliberately creates trouble"},{"type":"example","content":"Freddie is a <strong>firebrand</strong>: every time he walks into the office, he winds up at the center of heated argument."}]},{"id":685,"slug":"flippant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"flippant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"flippant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing inappropriate levity"},{"type":"example","content":"Although Sam was trying to honor Mark's sense of humor, many found it quite <strong>flippant</strong> that he wore a comic nose and glasses mask to Mark's funeral."}]},{"id":734,"slug":"hobble","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hobble"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hobble","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to hold back  the progress of something"},{"type":"example","content":"Bad weather has <strong>hobbled</strong> rescue efforts, making it difficult for crews to find bodies in the wreckage."}]},{"id":736,"slug":"hubris","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hubris"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hubris","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> overbearing pride or presumption"},{"type":"example","content":"Bill Clinton was criticized for his <strong>hubris</strong>, since he believed he could get away with anything once in the White House."}]},{"id":744,"slug":"immure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"immure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"immure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to enclose, usually in walls"},{"type":"example","content":"The modern supermarket experience makes many feel claustrophobic, as they are <strong>immured</strong> in walls upon walls of products."}]},{"id":750,"slug":"imperious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"imperious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"imperious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy"},{"type":"example","content":"Children are <strong>imperious</strong> with each other before they learn that earning someone's respect is better than demanding."}]},{"id":753,"slug":"impetuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impetuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impetuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by undue haste and lack of thought or deliberation"},{"type":"example","content":"Herbert is rarely <strong>impetuous</strong>, but on the spur of the moment, he spent thousands of dollars on a motorcycle today."}]},{"id":759,"slug":"improvident","front":[{"type":"word","content":"improvident"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"improvident","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not given careful consideration"},{"type":"example","content":"Marty was <strong>improvident</strong>, never putting money aside for the future but spending it on decorating the interior of his home."}]},{"id":773,"slug":"incontrovertible","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incontrovertible"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incontrovertible","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> necessarily or demonstrably true; impossible to deny or disprove"},{"type":"example","content":"Unless you can provide <strong>incontrovertible</strong> evidence, I will remain skeptical."}]},{"id":788,"slug":"inimitable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inimitable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inimitable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> defying imitation; matchless"},{"type":"example","content":"Mozart's music follows a clear pattern that, anyone could imitate, but his music gives an overall sense of effortlessness that is <strong>inimitable</strong>."}]},{"id":797,"slug":"intimation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"intimation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"intimation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an indirect suggestion"},{"type":"example","content":"At first the hostess tried <strong>intimation</strong>, praising the benefits of cutlery; when Cecil continued eating with his hands, the hostess told him to use a fork at dinner."}]},{"id":800,"slug":"inure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make accustomed to something unpleasant"},{"type":"example","content":"Three years of Manhattan living has <strong>inured</strong> her to the sound of wailing sirens; she could probably sleep through the apocalypse."}]},{"id":802,"slug":"invidious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"invidious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"invidious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> likely to cause resentment"},{"type":"example","content":"At a time when many others in the office were about to be laid off, many considered Cheryl's fine clothes that day an <strong>invidious</strong> display."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":804,"slug":"inviolate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inviolate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inviolate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> must be kept sacred"},{"type":"example","content":"While the literary critic subjected most of the classics to the harshest reviews, he regarded Cervantes as <strong>inviolate</strong>, and had nothing but praise for him."}]},{"id":807,"slug":"irrefutable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"irrefutable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"irrefutable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> impossible to deny or disprove"},{"type":"example","content":"Scientists are searching for <strong>irrefutable</strong> evidence that some form of life existed on mars at some point in its history."}]},{"id":818,"slug":"lacerate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lacerate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lacerate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> deeply hurt the feelings of; distress"},{"type":"example","content":"The teacher was fired for <strong>lacerating</strong> a student who wrote a poor essay."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":833,"slug":"machinate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"machinate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"machinate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> engage in plotting or enter into a conspiracy, swear together"},{"type":"example","content":"The rebels met at night in an abandoned barn to <strong>machinate</strong>."}]},{"id":834,"slug":"magisterial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"magisterial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"magisterial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> offensively self-assured or given to exercising unwarranted power"},{"type":"example","content":"Though she was only a third grade teacher, Ms. Martinet was <strong>magisterial</strong> in dealing with her class, lording over them like a queen."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":874,"slug":"nonchalant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"nonchalant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"nonchalant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> coming across as uninterested or unconcerned; overly casual"},{"type":"example","content":"The twenty-somethings at the coffee shop always irked Sheldon, especially the way in which they acted <strong>nonchalantly</strong> towards everything, not even caring when Sheldon once spilled his mocha on them."}]},{"id":884,"slug":"obstreperous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obstreperous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obstreperous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> noisily and stubbornly defiant; willfully difficult to control"},{"type":"example","content":"When the teacher asked the <strong>obstreperous</strong> student simply to bus his tray, the student threw the entire tray on the floor, shouted an epithet, and walked out."}]},{"id":892,"slug":"ossify","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ossify"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ossify","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make rigid and set into a conventional pattern"},{"type":"example","content":"Even as a young man, Bob had some bias against poor people, but during his years in social services, his bad opinions <strong>ossified</strong> into unshiftable views."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":904,"slug":"patent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"patent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"patent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> glaringly obvious"},{"type":"example","content":"Since the book had been through no fewer than six proof runs, the staff was shocked to see such a <strong>patent</strong> spelling mistake remaining, right in the middle of the front cover!"},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":915,"slug":"peripatetic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"peripatetic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"peripatetic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> traveling by foot"},{"type":"example","content":"Jim always preferred a <strong>peripatetic</strong> approach to discovering a city: he felt that he could see so many more details while walking."}]},{"id":949,"slug":"presentiment","front":[{"type":"word","content":"presentiment"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"presentiment","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a feeling of evil to come"},{"type":"example","content":"On the night that Lincoln would be fatally shot, his wife had a <strong>presentiment</strong> about going to Ford's Theater, but Lincoln persuaded her that everything would be fine."}]},{"id":970,"slug":"puerile","front":[{"type":"word","content":"puerile"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"puerile","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> of or characteristic of a child; displaying or suggesting a lack of maturity"},{"type":"example","content":"Helen enjoyed blowing soap bubbles, but Jim regarded this as <strong>puerile</strong>, totally unworthy of a woman with a Ph.D."}]},{"id":971,"slug":"puissant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"puissant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"puissant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> powerful"},{"type":"example","content":"Over the years of service, and quite to his surprise, he became a <strong>puissant</strong> advisor to the community."}]},{"id":987,"slug":"rarefied","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rarefied"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rarefied","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> made more subtle or refined"},{"type":"example","content":"Jack's vulgar jokes were not so successful in the <strong>rarefied</strong> environment of college professors."}]},{"id":994,"slug":"recrimination","front":[{"type":"word","content":"recrimination"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"recrimination","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> mutual accusations"},{"type":"example","content":"The two brothers sat and cried, pointing fingers and making elaborate <strong>recriminations</strong> of the other's guilt"}]},{"id":1015,"slug":"ribald","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ribald"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ribald","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> humorously vulgar"},{"type":"example","content":"The speaker was famous for his <strong>ribald</strong> humor, but the high school principal asked him to keep the talk G-rated when he spoke to the student body."}]},{"id":1042,"slug":"spartan","front":[{"type":"word","content":"spartan"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"spartan","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment; practicing great self-denial"},{"type":"example","content":"After losing everything in a fire, Tim decided to live in <strong>spartan</strong> conditions, sleeping on the floor and owning as little furniture as a possible."}]},{"id":1051,"slug":"stalwart","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stalwart"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stalwart","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dependable; inured to fatigue or hardships"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite all the criticism directed at the President during this scandal, Lisa has remained his <strong>stalwart</strong> supporter."}]},{"id":1059,"slug":"subterfuge","front":[{"type":"word","content":"subterfuge"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"subterfuge","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something intended to misrepresent the true nature of an activity"},{"type":"example","content":"Finally deciding to abandon all <strong>subterfuge</strong>, Arthur revealed to Cindy everything about his secret affair over the past two years."}]},{"id":1066,"slug":"surreptitious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"surreptitious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"surreptitious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> stealthy, taking pains not to be caught or detected"},{"type":"example","content":"Since his mom was a light sleeper, Timmy had to tiptoe <strong>surreptitiously</strong> through the entire house, careful to not make the floors creak, until he at last was able to enjoy his plunder: a box of chocolate chip cookies."}]},{"id":1079,"slug":"tempestuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tempestuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tempestuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> as if driven by turbulent or conflicting emotions; highly energetic and wildly changing or fluctuating"},{"type":"example","content":"Chuck and Kathy had always been stable and agreeable people on their own, but when they got involved, it was a <strong>tempestuous</strong> relationship."}]},{"id":1109,"slug":"unflappable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unflappable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unflappable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not easily perturbed or excited or upset; marked by extreme calm and composure"},{"type":"example","content":"The house shook and the ground quaked, but my dad was <strong>unflappable</strong> and comforted the family."}]},{"id":1114,"slug":"unpropitious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unpropitious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unpropitious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of a circumstance) with little chance of success"},{"type":"example","content":"With only a bottle of water and a sandwich, the hikers faced an <strong>unpropitious</strong> task: ascending a huge mountain that took most two days to climb."}]},{"id":1119,"slug":"untenable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"untenable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"untenable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of theories etc) incapable of being defended or justified"},{"type":"example","content":"With the combination of Kepler's brilliant theories and Galileo's telescopic observations, the old geocentric theory became <strong>untenable</strong> to most of the educated people in Europe."}]},{"id":1121,"slug":"unviable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unviable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unviable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not able to work, survive, or succeed (also spelled inviable)."},{"type":"example","content":"The plan was obviously <strong>unviable</strong> considering that it lead to complete environmental destruction in the river valley."}]},{"id":2308,"slug":"apposite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apposite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apposite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> remarkably appropriate"},{"type":"example","content":"For a writer with such quick wit, Jonathan Swift has a rather <strong>apposite</strong> name."}]},{"id":386,"slug":"anachronism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"anachronism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"anachronism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something that is inappropriate for the given time period (usually something old)."},{"type":"example","content":"Dressed in 15th century clothing each day, Edward was a walking <strong>anachronism</strong>."}]},{"id":392,"slug":"antic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"antic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"antic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> ludicrously odd"},{"type":"example","content":"The clown's <strong>antic</strong> act was too extreme for the youngest children, who left the room in tears."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":402,"slug":"apothegm","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apothegm"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apothegm","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a short, pithy instructive saying"},{"type":"example","content":"Winston Churchill is famous for many <strong>apothegms</strong>, but this might be his most famous: \"It has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all the others that have been tried.\""}]},{"id":408,"slug":"appurtenant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"appurtenant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"appurtenant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> supplying added support"},{"type":"example","content":"In hiking Mt. Everest, sherpas are <strong>appurtenant</strong>, helping climbers both carry gear and navigate treacherous paths."}]},{"id":413,"slug":"arrogate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arrogate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arrogate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> seize and control without authority"},{"type":"example","content":"Arriving at the small town, the outlaw <strong>arrogated</strong> the privileges of a lord, asking the frightened citizens to provide food, drink, and entertainment."}]},{"id":414,"slug":"artifice","front":[{"type":"word","content":"artifice"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"artifice","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> cunning tricks used to deceive others"},{"type":"example","content":"The mayoral candidates both spent much of the campaign accusing each other of <strong>artifices</strong> designed to mislead the voting public."}]},{"id":426,"slug":"atavism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"atavism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"atavism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a reappearance of an earlier characteristic; throwback"},{"type":"example","content":"Much of the modern art movement was an <strong>atavism</strong> to a style of art found only in small villages through Africa and South America."}]},{"id":437,"slug":"baleful","front":[{"type":"word","content":"baleful"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"baleful","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments"},{"type":"example","content":"Movies often use storms or rain clouds as a <strong>baleful</strong> omen of evil events that will soon befall the main character."}]},{"id":448,"slug":"bemoan","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bemoan"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bemoan","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> express discontent or a strong regret"},{"type":"example","content":"While the CFO carefully explained all the reasons for the cuts in benefits, after the meeting employees <strong>bemoaned</strong> the cuts as further evidence that management was against them."}]},{"id":453,"slug":"besotted","front":[{"type":"word","content":"besotted"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"besotted","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> strongly affectionate towards"},{"type":"example","content":"Even though her father did not approve, Juliet became <strong>besotted</strong> with the young Romeo."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very drunk"},{"type":"example","content":"Never before have I seen my mom so <strong>besotted</strong>, and honestly, I hope it's the last time she drinks so much."}]},{"id":461,"slug":"bristle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bristle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bristle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> react in an offended or angry manner"},{"type":"example","content":"As we discussed the painting, I noticed the artist's wife <strong>bristling</strong> at our criticisms, ready to defend her husband's work."}]},{"id":462,"slug":"broadside","front":[{"type":"word","content":"broadside"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"broadside","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a strong verbal attack"},{"type":"example","content":"Political <strong>broadsides</strong> are usually strongest in the weeks leading up to a national election."}]},{"id":464,"slug":"brook","front":[{"type":"word","content":"brook"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"brook","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> put up with something or somebody unpleasant"},{"type":"example","content":"While she was at the chalkboard, the teacher did not <strong>brook</strong> any form of talking--even a tiny peep resulted in afternoon detention."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":465,"slug":"browbeat","front":[{"type":"word","content":"browbeat"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"browbeat","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be bossy towards; discourage or frighten with threats or a domineering manner"},{"type":"example","content":"During the interrogation, the suspect was <strong>browbeaten</strong> into signing a false confession."}]},{"id":483,"slug":"chagrin","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chagrin"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chagrin","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> strong feelings of embarrassment"},{"type":"example","content":"Much to the timid writer's <strong>chagrin</strong>, the audience chanted his name until he came back on the stage."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause to feel shame; hurt the pride of"},{"type":"example","content":"She never cared what others said about her appearance but was <strong>chagrined</strong> by the smallest comment from her mother."}]},{"id":487,"slug":"chimera","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chimera"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chimera","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something desired or wished for but is only an illusion and impossible to achieve"},{"type":"example","content":"Many believe that a world free of war is a <strong>chimera</strong>\u2014a dream that ignores humanity's violent tendencies."}]},{"id":543,"slug":"debonair","front":[{"type":"word","content":"debonair"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"debonair","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having a sophisticated charm"},{"type":"example","content":"James Bond is known for his good looks, high tech gadgets, and <strong>debonair</strong> manner."}]},{"id":552,"slug":"deign","front":[{"type":"word","content":"deign"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"deign","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> do something that one considers to be below one's dignity"},{"type":"example","content":"The master of the house never <strong>deigned</strong> to answer questions from the servants."}]},{"id":594,"slug":"disingenuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disingenuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disingenuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not straightforward; giving a false appearance of frankness"},{"type":"example","content":"Many adults think that they can lie to children, but kids are smart and know when people are <strong>disingenuous</strong>."}]},{"id":604,"slug":"doleful","front":[{"type":"word","content":"doleful"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"doleful","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> filled with or evoking sadness"},{"type":"example","content":"No event is more <strong>doleful</strong> than the passing of my mother; she was a shining star in my life, and it brings me great sadness to think that she is now gone."}]},{"id":615,"slug":"effervescent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"effervescent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"effervescent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by high spirits or excitement"},{"type":"example","content":"After the sales result, the manager was in an <strong>effervescent</strong> mood, letting several employees leave work early that day."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":628,"slug":"embryonic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"embryonic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"embryonic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> in an early stage of development"},{"type":"example","content":"The Board of Directors is hoping to launch a new product soon, but planning for the Z7 is in an <strong>embryonic</strong> stage."}]},{"id":631,"slug":"empiricism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"empiricism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"empiricism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> any method that derives knowledge from experience, used in experimental science as a way to gain insight and knowledge"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Empiricism</strong> does not always lead to knowledge; an experience or experiment may raise more questions than it answers."}]},{"id":645,"slug":"epigram","front":[{"type":"word","content":"epigram"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"epigram","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a witty saying"},{"type":"example","content":"My favorite <strong>epigram</strong> from Mark Twain is \"A man who carries a cat by the tail learns something he can learn no other way.\""}]},{"id":650,"slug":"ersatz","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ersatz"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ersatz","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not real or genuine; phony"},{"type":"example","content":"The car dealer's <strong>ersatz</strong> laughter was immediately followed by a price quote, one that Shelley found highly inflated."}]},{"id":666,"slug":"exemplar","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exemplar"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exemplar","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something to be imitated"},{"type":"example","content":"Lena's homework is on the wall because it is an <strong>exemplar</strong> of clean, neat, and thoughtful work."}]},{"id":703,"slug":"gambit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gambit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gambit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a maneuver or risk in a game or conversation, designed to secure an advantage"},{"type":"example","content":"Randy played a <strong>gambit</strong>, telling his boss that he would leave at the end of the week if he didn't get a raise."}]},{"id":733,"slug":"hoary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hoary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hoary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> ancient"},{"type":"example","content":"Most workout gurus are young, fit people, whereas most yoga gurus are <strong>hoary</strong> men with long white beards."}]},{"id":765,"slug":"inanity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inanity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inanity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> total lack of meaning or ideas"},{"type":"example","content":"Bill's poem was nothing more than a list of impressive sounding words, so there was no point in trying to take meaning from the <strong>inanity</strong>."}]},{"id":769,"slug":"inchoate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inchoate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inchoate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> only partly in existence; imperfectly formed"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Inchoate</strong> ideas about the relation of humans to other animals had been discussed since the Middle Ages but the modern theory really began with Darwin."}]},{"id":779,"slug":"ineffable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ineffable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ineffable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> too sacred to be uttered; defying expression or description"},{"type":"example","content":"While art critics can occasionally pinpoint a work's greatness, much of why a piece captures our imaginations is completely <strong>ineffable</strong>."}]},{"id":823,"slug":"languish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"languish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"languish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> become feeble"},{"type":"example","content":"Stranded in the wilderness for four days, the hiker <strong>languished</strong>, eating protein bars and nuts."}]},{"id":851,"slug":"meteoric","front":[{"type":"word","content":"meteoric"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"meteoric","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> like a meteor in speed or brilliance or transience"},{"type":"example","content":"The early spectacular successes propelled the pitcher to <strong>meteoric</strong> stardom, but a terrible injury tragically cut short his career."}]},{"id":872,"slug":"nettlesome","front":[{"type":"word","content":"nettlesome"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"nettlesome","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> causing irritation or annoyance"},{"type":"example","content":"Maria found her coworker's cell phone <strong>nettlesome</strong>, because every few minutes it would buzz to life with another text message."}]},{"id":878,"slug":"objurgate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"objurgate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"objurgate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> express strong disapproval of"},{"type":"example","content":"The manager spent an hour <strong>objurgating</strong> the employee in the hopes that he would not make these mistakes again."}]},{"id":901,"slug":"paragon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"paragon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"paragon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> model of excellence or perfection of a kind; one having no equal"},{"type":"example","content":"Even with the rise of Kobe Bryant, many still believe that Michael Jordon is the <strong>paragon</strong> for basketball players."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an ideal instance; a perfect embodiment of a concept"},{"type":"example","content":"Some say that Athens was the <strong>paragon</strong> of democracy, but these people often forget that slaves and women were still not allowed to vote."}]},{"id":912,"slug":"percipient","front":[{"type":"word","content":"percipient"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"percipient","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> highly perceptive"},{"type":"example","content":"Even the most <strong>percipient</strong> editor will make an occasional error when proofreading."}]},{"id":923,"slug":"philistine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"philistine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"philistine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> smug and ignorant towards artistic and cultural values"},{"type":"example","content":"Jane considered Al completely <strong>philistine</strong>, because he talked almost exclusive about video games; she was entirely unaware of how well read he really was."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":924,"slug":"phlegmatic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"phlegmatic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"phlegmatic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing little emotion"},{"type":"example","content":"Arnold is truly noble, remaining reserved until an issue of significance arises, but Walter is simply <strong>phlegmatic</strong>: he doesn't have the energy or inclination to care about anything."}]},{"id":927,"slug":"pith","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pith"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pith","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the most essential part of something"},{"type":"example","content":"When Cynthia hears a speaker presenting a complex argument, she is always able to discard the irrelevant details and extract the <strong>pith</strong> of what the speaker is trying to convey."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":986,"slug":"rapprochement","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rapprochement"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rapprochement","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the reestablishing of cordial relations"},{"type":"example","content":"Although Ann hoped that her mother and her aunt would have a <strong>rapprochement</strong>, each one's bitter accusations against the other made any reconciliation unlikely."}]},{"id":995,"slug":"recrudesce","front":[{"type":"word","content":"recrudesce"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"recrudesce","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to break out or happen again"},{"type":"example","content":"After years of gamblers anonymous, Tony thought he'd broken his compulsive slot machine playing, but it took only one trip to the Atlantic City for a full <strong>recrudescence</strong>--he lost $5k on the one armed bandit."}]},{"id":1002,"slug":"reprisal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reprisal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reprisal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a retaliatory action against an enemy in wartime"},{"type":"example","content":"The Old Testament doctrine of \"an eye for an eye\" would seem to justify an immediate physical <strong>reprisal</strong> for any injury, but that interpretation neglects the many passages that value mercy and loving-kindness over revenge.  \r\n\r\n"}]},{"id":1039,"slug":"solicitude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"solicitude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"solicitude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a feeling of excessive concern"},{"type":"example","content":"I walked to his house in the rain to make sure he had enough to eat while he was sick, but he seemed not to appreciate my <strong>solicitude</strong>."}]},{"id":1049,"slug":"squelch","front":[{"type":"word","content":"squelch"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"squelch","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> suppress or crush completely"},{"type":"example","content":"After the dictator consolidated his power, he took steps to <strong>squelch</strong> all criticism, often arresting any journalist who said anything  that could be interpreted as negative about his regime."}]},{"id":1098,"slug":"truculence","front":[{"type":"word","content":"truculence"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"truculence","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> defiant aggressiveness"},{"type":"example","content":"When the boss confronted Aaron about his earlier remarks, Aaron responded with utter <strong>truculence</strong>, simply throwing a glass of water in the boss' face and walking away."}]},{"id":1113,"slug":"unprepossessing","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unprepossessing"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unprepossessing","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> creating an unfavorable or neutral first impression"},{"type":"example","content":"World leaders coming to meet Gandhi would expect a towering sage, and often would be surprised by the <strong>unprepossessing</strong> little man dressed only in a loincloth and shawl."}]},{"id":1118,"slug":"unstinting","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unstinting"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unstinting","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very generous"},{"type":"example","content":"Helen is <strong>unstinting</strong> with her time, often spending hours at the house of a sick friend."}]},{"id":1120,"slug":"untrammeled","front":[{"type":"word","content":"untrammeled"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"untrammeled","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not confined or limited"},{"type":"example","content":"The whole notion of living <strong>untrammeled</strong> inspired the American Revolution and was enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution."}]},{"id":1133,"slug":"vitriol","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vitriol"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vitriol","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> abusive or venomous language used to express blame or bitter deep-seated ill will"},{"type":"example","content":"His <strong>vitriol</strong> spewed forth from a deep-seated racism that consumed his whole life."}]},{"id":368,"slug":"abjure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"abjure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"abjure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> formally reject or give up (as a belief)"},{"type":"example","content":"While the church believed that Galileo <strong>abjured</strong> the heliocentric theory under threat of torture, he later wrote a book clearly supporting the theory."}]},{"id":382,"slug":"afford","front":[{"type":"word","content":"afford"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"afford","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> provide with an opportunity"},{"type":"example","content":"The summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro <strong>affords</strong> a panoramic view that encompasses both Tanzania and Kenya."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":400,"slug":"aplomb","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aplomb"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aplomb","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> great coolness and composure under strain"},{"type":"example","content":"Nancy acted with <strong>aplomb</strong> during dangerous situations--she once calmly climbed up an oak tree to save a cat."}]},{"id":407,"slug":"appropriate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"appropriate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"appropriate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to give or take something by force"},{"type":"example","content":"The government <strong>appropriated</strong> land that was occupied by squatters, sending them scurrying for another place to live."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to allocate"},{"type":"example","content":"The committee <strong>appropriated</strong> the funds to its various members."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":424,"slug":"assiduously","front":[{"type":"word","content":"assiduously"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"assiduously","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adverb:</strong> with care and persistence"},{"type":"example","content":"The top college football program recruits new talent <strong>assiduously</strong>, only choosing those who were the top in their county."}]},{"id":432,"slug":"autocratic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"autocratic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"autocratic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty"},{"type":"example","content":"The last true <strong>autocratic</strong> country is certainly North Korea; nowhere does a leader exercise the absolute control over all aspects of a people the way that Kim Jong-un does."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> offensively self-assured or given to exercising usually unwarranted power"},{"type":"example","content":"The manager was finally fired for his <strong>autocratic</strong> leadership, which often bordered on rude and offensive."}]},{"id":460,"slug":"bridle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bridle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bridle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> the act of restraining power or action or limiting excess"},{"type":"example","content":"New curfew laws have <strong>bridled</strong> people's tendency to go out at night."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to react with anger or to take offense"},{"type":"example","content":"The hostess <strong>bridled</strong> at the tactless dinner guests who insisted on eating before everybody had gotten their food."}]},{"id":463,"slug":"bromide","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bromide"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bromide","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a trite or obvious remark"},{"type":"example","content":"Instead of sharing his umbrella, the cheeky stranger offered Martha the following <strong>bromide</strong>: \"Looks like it's raining.\""}]},{"id":472,"slug":"callow","front":[{"type":"word","content":"callow"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"callow","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> young and inexperienced"},{"type":"example","content":"Both Los Angeles and New York are known for <strong>callow</strong> out-of-towners hoping to make it big."}]},{"id":499,"slug":"complaisant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"complaisant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"complaisant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing a cheerful willingness to do favors for others"},{"type":"example","content":"On her first day at the job, Annie was <strong>complaisant</strong>, fulfilling every request of her new employer and anticipating future requests."}]},{"id":501,"slug":"complicit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"complicit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"complicit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> Associated with or participating in an activity, especially one of a questionable nature."},{"type":"example","content":"While the grand jury cleared the senator of all criminal charges, in the public mind he was still <strong>complicit</strong> in the corruption."}]},{"id":506,"slug":"conflagration","front":[{"type":"word","content":"conflagration"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"conflagration","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a very intense and uncontrolled fire"},{"type":"example","content":"In the summer months, <strong>conflagrations</strong> are not uncommon in the southwest, due to the heat and lack of rain."}]},{"id":507,"slug":"conflate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"conflate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"conflate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> mix together different elements or concepts"},{"type":"example","content":"In her recent book, the author <strong>conflates</strong> several genres--the detective story, the teen thriller, and the vampire romance--to create a memorable read."}]},{"id":528,"slug":"coterminous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"coterminous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"coterminous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being of equal extent or scope or duration"},{"type":"example","content":"The border of the state is <strong>coterminous</strong> with geographic limits on travel; the east and north are surrounded by a nearly uncrossable river and the south by a desert."}]},{"id":568,"slug":"desiccated","front":[{"type":"word","content":"desiccated"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"desiccated","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> uninteresting, lacking vitality"},{"type":"example","content":"Few novelists over 80 are able to produce anything more than <strong>desiccated</strong> works--boring shadows of former books."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":569,"slug":"desideratum","front":[{"type":"word","content":"desideratum"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"desideratum","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something desired as a necessity"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>desideratum</strong> of the environmental group is that motorists should rely on carpooling."}]},{"id":590,"slug":"discursive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"discursive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"discursive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of e.g. speech and writing) tending to depart from the main point"},{"type":"example","content":"Many readers find it tough to read Moby Dick since the author is <strong>discursive</strong>, often cutting the action short to spend 20 pages on the history of a whale."}]},{"id":605,"slug":"dolorous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dolorous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dolorous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing sorrow"},{"type":"example","content":"Chopin's ballades are filled with sharp changes in moods--a <strong>dolorous</strong> melody can give way to a lighthearted tempo."}]},{"id":606,"slug":"doughty","front":[{"type":"word","content":"doughty"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"doughty","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> brave; bold; courageous"},{"type":"example","content":"I enjoy films in which a <strong>doughty</strong> group comes together to battle a force of evil."}]},{"id":622,"slug":"elegiac","front":[{"type":"word","content":"elegiac"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"elegiac","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> expressing sorrow"},{"type":"example","content":"Few can listen to the <strong>elegiac</strong> opening bars of the Moonlight sonata without feeling the urge to cry."}]},{"id":639,"slug":"enormity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enormity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enormity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an act of extreme wickedness"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>enormity</strong> of Pol Pot's regime is hard to capture in words--within months hundreds of thousands of Cambodians lost their lives."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":656,"slug":"ethereal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ethereal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ethereal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by lightness and insubstantiality"},{"type":"example","content":"Because she dances with an <strong>ethereal</strong> style, ballet critics have called her Madame Butterfly."}]},{"id":674,"slug":"facile","front":[{"type":"word","content":"facile"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"facile","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> arrived at without due care or effort; lacking depth"},{"type":"example","content":"Many news shows provide <strong>facile</strong> explanations to complex politics, so I prefer to read the in-depth reporting of The New York Times."}]},{"id":678,"slug":"fecund","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fecund"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fecund","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> intellectually productive"},{"type":"example","content":"The artist had entered a <strong>fecund</strong> period, producing three masterpieces in the span of two months."}]},{"id":720,"slug":"gumption","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gumption"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gumption","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> resourcefulness and determination"},{"type":"example","content":"Wallace Stegner lamented the lack of <strong>gumption</strong> in the U.S. during the sixties, claiming that no young person knew the value of work."}]},{"id":730,"slug":"hauteur","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hauteur"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hauteur","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> overbearing pride evidenced by a superior manner toward inferiors"},{"type":"example","content":"As soon as she won the lottery, Alice began displaying a <strong>hauteur</strong> to her friends, calling them dirty-clothed peasants behind their backs."}]},{"id":752,"slug":"impervious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impervious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impervious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not admitting of passage or capable of being affected"},{"type":"example","content":"I am not <strong>impervious</strong> to your insults; they cause me great pain."}]},{"id":762,"slug":"impugn","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impugn"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impugn","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> attack as false or wrong"},{"type":"example","content":"Though many initially tried to <strong>impugn</strong> Darwin's theory, in scientific circles today, the idea is taken as truth."}]},{"id":781,"slug":"inequity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inequity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inequity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> injustice by virtue of not conforming with rules or standards"},{"type":"example","content":"After decades of racial <strong>inequity</strong>, the \"separate but equal\" doctrine was successfully overturned."}]},{"id":796,"slug":"internecine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"internecine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"internecine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of conflict) within a group or organization"},{"type":"example","content":"The guerilla group, which had become so powerful as to own the state police, was finally destroyed by an <strong>internecine</strong> conflict."}]},{"id":803,"slug":"inviolable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inviolable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inviolable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> never to be broken, infringed, or dishonored"},{"type":"example","content":"To many the grass at Wimbledon is <strong>inviolable</strong> and only greater tennis players are able to enjoy a game there."}]},{"id":839,"slug":"malingerer","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malingerer"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malingerer","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> someone shirking their duty by pretending to be sick or incapacitated"},{"type":"example","content":"At one time, our country was full of hardworking respectful people, but now it seems that everyone is a <strong>malingerer</strong> with little inclination to work."}]},{"id":850,"slug":"mendicant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mendicant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mendicant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a pauper who lives by begging"},{"type":"example","content":"Tolstoy was an aristocrat, but he strove to understand the Christianity of the Russian peasants by wandering among them as a <strong>mendicant</strong>."}]},{"id":873,"slug":"noisome","front":[{"type":"word","content":"noisome"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"noisome","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having an extremely bad smell"},{"type":"example","content":"Each August, when the winds moved in a south easterly direction, the garbage dump would spread <strong>noisome</strong> vapors through the small town."}]},{"id":886,"slug":"obtuse","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obtuse"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obtuse","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> slow to learn or understand; lacking intellectual acuity; lacking in insight or discernment"},{"type":"example","content":"Jackson was the most <strong>obtuse</strong> member of the team: the manager's subtle ironies were always lost on him."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":895,"slug":"palatable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"palatable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"palatable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> acceptable to the taste or mind"},{"type":"example","content":"Mikey didn't partake much in his friends' conversations, but found their presence <strong>palatable</strong>."}]},{"id":899,"slug":"panegyric","front":[{"type":"word","content":"panegyric"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"panegyric","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a formal expression of praise"},{"type":"example","content":"Dave asked Andrew to do just a simple toast, but Andrew launched into a full <strong>panegyric</strong>, enumerating a complete list of Dave's achievements and admirable qualities."}]},{"id":911,"slug":"pellucid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pellucid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pellucid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> transparently clear; easily understandable"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor had a remarkable ability to make even the most difficult concepts seem <strong>pellucid</strong>."}]},{"id":937,"slug":"pontificate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pontificate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pontificate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> talk in a dogmatic and pompous manner"},{"type":"example","content":"The vice-president would often <strong>pontificate</strong> about economic theory, as if no one else in the room were qualified to speak on the topic."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":965,"slug":"proscribe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"proscribe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"proscribe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> command against"},{"type":"example","content":"My doctor <strong>proscribed</strong> my habit of eating donuts with chocolate sauce and hamburger patties for breakfast."}]},{"id":966,"slug":"proselytize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"proselytize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"proselytize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> convert (someone) to another religion, philosophy, or perspective"},{"type":"example","content":"Lisa loves her Mac but says little about it; by contrast, Jake will <strong>proselytize</strong>, interrogating anyone with an Android about why she didn't purchase an iPhone."}]},{"id":1027,"slug":"self-effacing","front":[{"type":"word","content":"self-effacing"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"self-effacing","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> reluctant to draw attention to yourself"},{"type":"example","content":"The most admirable teachers and respected leaders are those who are <strong>self-effacing</strong>, directing attention and praise to their students and workers."}]},{"id":1038,"slug":"solicitous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"solicitous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"solicitous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing hovering attentiveness"},{"type":"example","content":"Our neighbors are constantly knocking on our door to make sure we are ok, and I don't know how to ask them to stop being so <strong>solicitous</strong> about our health."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1056,"slug":"stultify","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stultify"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stultify","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause one, through routine, to lose energy and enthusiasm"},{"type":"example","content":"As an undergraduate Mark felt <strong>stultified</strong> by classes outside his area of study; only in grad school, in which he could focus solely on literary analysis, did he regain his scholarly edge."}]},{"id":1089,"slug":"transmute","front":[{"type":"word","content":"transmute"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"transmute","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> change or alter in form, appearance, or nature"},{"type":"example","content":"One of the goals of alchemy was to find the substance or process that would <strong>transmute</strong> lead into gold."}]},{"id":1101,"slug":"turgid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"turgid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"turgid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of language) pompous and tedious"},{"type":"example","content":"The amount of GRE vocabulary he used increased with his years--by the time he was 60, his novels were so <strong>turgid</strong> that even his diehard fans refused to read them."}]},{"id":1102,"slug":"tyro","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tyro"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tyro","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> someone new to a field or activity"},{"type":"example","content":"All great writers, athletes, and artists were <strong>tyros</strong> at one time\u2014unknown, clumsy, and unskilled with much to learn."}]},{"id":1104,"slug":"unassailable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unassailable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unassailable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> immune to attack; without flaws"},{"type":"example","content":"Professor Williams is so self-assured as to seem arrogant, presenting each and every opinion as an <strong>unassailable</strong> fact."}]},{"id":1111,"slug":"unimpeachable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unimpeachable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unimpeachable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> free of guilt; not subject to blame; beyond doubt or reproach"},{"type":"example","content":"After his long and <strong>unimpeachable</strong> service to the company, Sharat felt that a gold watch was a slap in the face rather than an honor."}]},{"id":1126,"slug":"vaunted","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vaunted"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vaunted","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> highly or widely praised or boasted about"},{"type":"example","content":"For years, they had heard of New York City's <strong>vaunted</strong> skyline, and when they finally saw it, the spectacular cityscape did not disappoint them in the least."}]},{"id":369,"slug":"abrogate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"abrogate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"abrogate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> revoke or relinquish formally; do away with"},{"type":"example","content":"As part of the agreement between the labor union and the company, the workers <strong>abrogated</strong> their right to strike for four years in exchange for better health insurance."}]},{"id":376,"slug":"adjudicate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"adjudicate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"adjudicate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to serve as a judge in a competition; to arrive at a judgment or conclusion"},{"type":"example","content":"Only those with the most refined palates were able to <strong>adjudicate</strong> during the barbeque competition."}]},{"id":442,"slug":"bastardization","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bastardization"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bastardization","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an act that debases or corrupts"},{"type":"example","content":"The movie World War Z is a complete <strong>bastardization</strong> of the book with little more in common than zombies and a title."}]},{"id":450,"slug":"bereft","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bereft"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bereft","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unhappy in love; suffering from unrequited love"},{"type":"example","content":"After 64 years of marriage, William was <strong>bereft</strong> after the death of his wife."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> sorrowful through loss or deprivation"},{"type":"example","content":"\"You are not <strong>bereft</strong> if you haven't played on your Xbox in the past week,\" his mother said."}]},{"id":473,"slug":"canard","front":[{"type":"word","content":"canard"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"canard","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a deliberately misleading fabrication"},{"type":"example","content":"The public will always be fooled by the media's <strong>canards</strong>."}]},{"id":475,"slug":"capitulate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"capitulate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"capitulate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to surrender (usually under agreed conditions)"},{"type":"example","content":"Paul, losing 19-0 in a ping-pong match against his nimble friend, basically <strong>capitulated</strong> when he played the last two points with his eyes closed."}]},{"id":478,"slug":"cataclysm","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cataclysm"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cataclysm","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an event resulting in great loss and misfortune"},{"type":"example","content":"The introduction of smallpox was a <strong>cataclysm</strong> for Native Americans, killing off more than half of their population."}]},{"id":486,"slug":"chauvinism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chauvinism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chauvinism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> fanatical patriotism; belief that one's group/cause is superior to all other groups/causes"},{"type":"example","content":"Vegetarians argue that man is <strong>chauvinistic</strong> in his belief that animals do not consciously feel the pain we humans do."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":504,"slug":"concomitant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"concomitant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"concomitant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> describing an event or situation that happens at the same time as or in connection with another"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Concomitant</strong> with his desire for nature was a desire for the culture and energy of a big city."}]},{"id":530,"slug":"countermand","front":[{"type":"word","content":"countermand"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"countermand","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> a contrary command cancelling or reversing a previous command"},{"type":"example","content":"By the time the colonel <strong>countermanded</strong> his soldiers not to land in enemy territory, a few helicopters had already touched down amid heavy gunfire."}]},{"id":558,"slug":"demonstrative","front":[{"type":"word","content":"demonstrative"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"demonstrative","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> given to or marked by the open expression of emotion"},{"type":"example","content":"When Sally told James that she wanted to break up with him, she expected he would react <strong>demonstratively</strong>, but he quietly nodded his head and left without saying a word."}]},{"id":570,"slug":"despot","front":[{"type":"word","content":"despot"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"despot","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a cruel and oppressive dictator"},{"type":"example","content":"The Emperor Claudius was regarded as a fair-minded leader; his successor, Nero, was an absolute <strong>despot</strong>."}]},{"id":584,"slug":"diminutive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"diminutive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"diminutive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> to indicate smallness"},{"type":"example","content":"He prefers to be called a <strong>diminutive</strong> of his name: \"Bill\" instead of \"John William.\""},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very small"},{"type":"example","content":"When he put on his father's suit and shoes, his appearance was that of a <strong>diminutive</strong> youth."}]},{"id":598,"slug":"dissemble","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dissemble"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dissemble","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> conceal one's true motives, usually through deceit"},{"type":"example","content":"To get close to the senator, the assassin <strong>dissembled</strong> his intentions, convincing many people that he was a reporter for a well-known newspaper."}]},{"id":600,"slug":"dissipate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dissipate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dissipate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> squander or spend money frivolously"},{"type":"example","content":"The recent graduates <strong>dissipated</strong> their earnings on trips to Las Vegas and cruises in Mexico."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to disperse or scatter"},{"type":"example","content":"Kathleen's perfume was overwhelming in the cramped apartment, but once we stepped outside the smell <strong>dissipated</strong> and we could breathe once again."}]},{"id":601,"slug":"dissolution","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dissolution"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dissolution","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a living full of debauchery and indulgence in sensual pleasure"},{"type":"example","content":"Many Roman emperors were known for their <strong>dissolution</strong>, indulging in unspeakable desires of the flesh."}]},{"id":610,"slug":"ebullient","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ebullient"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ebullient","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> joyously unrestrained"},{"type":"example","content":"Can you blame him for his <strong>ebullient</strong> mood? He just graduated from medical school."}]},{"id":633,"slug":"enamored","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enamored"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enamored","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> strongly attracted to or in love with."},{"type":"example","content":"She is completely <strong>enamored</strong> with Justin Bieber, and goes to all his concerts on the East coast."}]},{"id":647,"slug":"eponym","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eponym"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eponym","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the name derived from a person (real or imaginary); the person for whom something is named"},{"type":"example","content":"Alexandria, Egypt is an <strong>eponym</strong> because it is named after Alexander the Great."}]},{"id":655,"slug":"estimable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"estimable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"estimable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> deserving of esteem and respect"},{"type":"example","content":"After serving thirty years, in which he selflessly served the community, Judge Harper was one of the more <strong>estimable</strong> people in town."}]},{"id":658,"slug":"evanescent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"evanescent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"evanescent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> tending to vanish like vapor"},{"type":"example","content":"The storm flashed into existence above us and lasted only a short time\u2014an <strong>evanescent</strong> turbulence of wind and cloud."}]},{"id":668,"slug":"exiguity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exiguity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exiguity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the quality of being meager"},{"type":"example","content":"After two months at sea, the <strong>exiguity</strong> of the ship's supplies forced them to search for fresh water and food."}]},{"id":670,"slug":"exorbitant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exorbitant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exorbitant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> greatly exceeding bounds of reason or moderation"},{"type":"example","content":"Shelley made one <strong>exorbitant</strong> purchase after another, buying new clothes and taking vacations even though she earned a limited salary."}]},{"id":672,"slug":"extrapolate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"extrapolate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"extrapolate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> draw from specific cases for more general cases"},{"type":"example","content":"By <strong>extrapolating</strong> from the data on the past three months, we can predict a 5% increase in traffic to our website."}]},{"id":683,"slug":"flag","front":[{"type":"word","content":"flag"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"flag","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> droop, sink, or settle from or as if from pressure or loss of tautness; become less intense"},{"type":"example","content":"After the three crushing defeats in the last three games, the team's enthusiasm began to <strong>flag</strong>."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":714,"slug":"graft","front":[{"type":"word","content":"graft"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"graft","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> corruption, usually through bribery"},{"type":"example","content":"In countries with rampant <strong>graft</strong>, getting a driver's license can require no more than paying an official."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":724,"slug":"halcyon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"halcyon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"halcyon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> idyllically calm and peaceful; suggesting happy tranquillity; marked by peace and prosperity"},{"type":"example","content":"The first decade after WWI was a <strong>halcyon</strong> period in America with new-found wealth and rapidly improving technology."}]},{"id":735,"slug":"hoodwink","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hoodwink"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hoodwink","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to deceive or trick someone"},{"type":"example","content":"Someone tried to <strong>hoodwink</strong> Marty with an email telling him that his uncle had just passed away, and to collect the inheritance he should send his credit card information."}]},{"id":780,"slug":"ineluctable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ineluctable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ineluctable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> impossible to avoid or evade:"},{"type":"example","content":"For those who smoke cigarettes for years, a major health crisis brought on by smoking is <strong>ineluctable</strong>."}]},{"id":784,"slug":"infelicitous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"infelicitous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"infelicitous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> inappropriate"},{"type":"example","content":"During the executive meeting, the marketing director continued to make <strong>infelicitous</strong> comments about the CEO's gambling habit."}]},{"id":819,"slug":"lachrymose","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lachrymose"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lachrymose","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing sorrow"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Lachrymose</strong> and depressed, Alexei Alexandrovich walked two miles home in the rain after learning that his wife was having an affair."}]},{"id":830,"slug":"loath","front":[{"type":"word","content":"loath"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"loath","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unwilling to do something contrary to your custom (usually followed by 'to')"},{"type":"example","content":"I was <strong>loath</strong> to leave the concert before my favorite band finished playing."}]},{"id":853,"slug":"misattribute","front":[{"type":"word","content":"misattribute"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"misattribute","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> To erroneously attribute; to falsely ascribe; used especially of authorship."},{"type":"example","content":"I made a mistake; I <strong>misattributed</strong> \"Crime and Punishment\" to Leo Tolstoy when it was actually written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky."}]},{"id":858,"slug":"modicum","front":[{"type":"word","content":"modicum"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"modicum","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a small or moderate or token amount"},{"type":"example","content":"If my sister had even a <strong>modicum</strong> of sense, she wouldn't be engaged to that barbarian."}]},{"id":880,"slug":"oblique","front":[{"type":"word","content":"oblique"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"oblique","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not straightforward; indirect"},{"type":"example","content":"Herbert never explicitly revealed anything negative about Tom's past, but at times he would <strong>obliquely</strong> suggest that Tom was not as innocent as he seemed."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":885,"slug":"obtain","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obtain"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obtain","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be valid, applicable, or true"},{"type":"example","content":"The custom of waiting your turn in line does not <strong>obtain</strong> in some countries, in which many people try to rush to front of the line at the same time."}]},{"id":887,"slug":"officious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"officious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"officious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> intrusive in a meddling or offensive manner"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor had trouble concentrating on her new theorem, because her <strong>officious</strong> secretary would barge in frequently reminding her of some trivial detail involving departmental paperwork."}]},{"id":896,"slug":"palaver","front":[{"type":"word","content":"palaver"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"palaver","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly"},{"type":"example","content":"During the rain delay, many who had come to see the game <strong>palavered</strong>, probably hoping that idle chatter would make the time go by faster."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":897,"slug":"panacea","front":[{"type":"word","content":"panacea"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"panacea","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> hypothetical remedy for all ills or diseases; a universal solution"},{"type":"example","content":"While the company credit card has made most large purchases easier, it is no <strong>panacea</strong>: some smaller basic transactions still must be conducted in cash."}]},{"id":925,"slug":"pillory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pillory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pillory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> ridicule or expose to public scorn"},{"type":"example","content":"After the candidate confessed, the press of the opposing party took the opportunity to <strong>pillory</strong> him, printing editorials with the most blatantly exaggerated accusations."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":962,"slug":"promulgate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"promulgate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"promulgate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> state or announce"},{"type":"example","content":"The President wanted to <strong>promulgate</strong> the success of the treaty negotiations, but he had to wait until Congress formally approved the agreement."}]},{"id":983,"slug":"raillery","front":[{"type":"word","content":"raillery"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"raillery","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> light teasing"},{"type":"example","content":"The new recruit was not bothered by the <strong>raillery</strong>, finding most of it light-hearted and good-natured."}]},{"id":1018,"slug":"row","front":[{"type":"word","content":"row"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"row","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an angry dispute"},{"type":"example","content":"The Prime Minister looked very foolish after his <strong>row</strong> with the foreign dignitary was caught on video and posted on youtube."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1023,"slug":"sardonic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sardonic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sardonic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> disdainfully or ironically humorous; scornful and mocking"},{"type":"example","content":"A stand-up comedian walks a fine line when making jokes about members of the audience; such fun and joking can quickly become <strong>sardonic</strong> and cutting."}]},{"id":1031,"slug":"simulacrum","front":[{"type":"word","content":"simulacrum"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"simulacrum","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a representation of a person (especially in the form of sculpture)"},{"type":"example","content":"The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center showcases a <strong>simulacrum</strong> of all the present and approved buildings in the city of Shanghai."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a bad imitation"},{"type":"example","content":"The early days of computer graphics made real people into a simulacrum that now seems comical."}]},{"id":1044,"slug":"splenetic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"splenetic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"splenetic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very irritable"},{"type":"example","content":"Ever since the car accident, Frank has been unable to walk without a cane, and so he has become <strong>splenetic</strong> and unpleasant to be around."}]},{"id":1064,"slug":"surfeit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"surfeit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"surfeit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an excessive amount of something"},{"type":"example","content":"There was no such thing as a <strong>surfeit</strong> of shopping for Nancy--she could stay at the outlet stores from opening to closing time."}]},{"id":1094,"slug":"trenchant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"trenchant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"trenchant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by or full of force and vigor; having keenness and forcefulness and penetration in thought, expression, or intellect"},{"type":"example","content":"Jill presented a rather superficial treatment of sales in Asia, but her <strong>trenchant</strong> analysis of sales in Europe inspired a number of insights into how to proceed in that market."}]},{"id":1129,"slug":"verisimilitude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"verisimilitude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"verisimilitude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the appearance of truth"},{"type":"example","content":"All bad novels are bad for numerous reasons; all good novels are good for their <strong>verisimilitude</strong> of reality, placing the readers in a world that resembles the one they know."}]},{"id":1130,"slug":"veritable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"veritable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"veritable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> truthfully, without a doubt"},{"type":"example","content":"Frank is a <strong>veritable</strong> life-saver -- last year, on two different occasions, he revived people using CPR."}]},{"id":9,"slug":"alacrity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"alacrity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"alacrity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an eager willingness to do something"},{"type":"example","content":"The first three weeks at his new job, Mark worked with such <strong>alacrity</strong> that upper management knew it would be giving him a promotion."}]},{"id":10,"slug":"prosaic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prosaic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prosaic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dull and lacking imagination"},{"type":"example","content":"Unlike the talented artists in his workshop, Paul had no such bent for the visual medium, so when it was time for him to make a stained glass painting, he ended up with a <strong>prosaic</strong> mosaic. "}]},{"id":24,"slug":"contentious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"contentious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"contentious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> likely to argue"},{"type":"example","content":"Since old grandpa Harry became very <strong>contentious</strong> during the summer when only reruns were on T.V., the grandkids learned to hide from him at every opportunity."}]},{"id":33,"slug":"expansive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"expansive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"expansive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> communicative, and prone to talking in a sociable manner"},{"type":"example","content":"After a few sips of cognac, the octogenarian shed his irascible demeanor and became <strong>expansive</strong>, speaking fondly of the \u201cgood old days\u201d."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":34,"slug":"base","front":[{"type":"word","content":"base"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"base","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> the lowest, without any moral principles"},{"type":"example","content":"She was not so <strong>base</strong> as to begrudge the beggar the unwanted crumbs from her dinner plate."}]},{"id":59,"slug":"equivocate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"equivocate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"equivocate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to speak vaguely, usually with the intention to mislead or deceive"},{"type":"example","content":"After Sharon brought the car home an hour after her curfew, she <strong>equivocated</strong> when her parents pointedly asked her where she had been."}]},{"id":61,"slug":"sedulous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sedulous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sedulous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> done diligently and carefully"},{"type":"example","content":"An avid numismatist, Harold <strong>sedulously</strong> amassed a collection of coins from over 100 countries\u2014an endeavor that took over fifteen years, and to five continents."}]},{"id":64,"slug":"imbibe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"imbibe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"imbibe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to drink or absorb as if drinking"},{"type":"example","content":"Plato <strong>imbibed</strong> Socrates\u2019 teachings to such an extent that he was able to write volumes of work that he directly attributed, sometimes word for word, to Socrates."}]},{"id":74,"slug":"beg","front":[{"type":"word","content":"beg"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"beg","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> assume something is true (usu. followed by \"the question\", meaning that you ask a question in which you assume something that hasn't been proven true) "},{"type":"example","content":"By assuming that Charlie was headed to college\u2014which he was not\u2014Maggie <strong>begged</strong> the question when she asked him to which school he was headed in the Fall."}]},{"id":89,"slug":"perfunctory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perfunctory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perfunctory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> done routinely and with little interest or care"},{"type":"example","content":"The short film examines modern <strong>perfunctory</strong> cleaning rituals such as washing dishes, doing laundry and tooth-brushing."}]},{"id":94,"slug":"indigent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"indigent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"indigent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> poor; having very little"},{"type":"example","content":"In the so-called Third World, many are <strong>indigent</strong> and only a privileged few have the resources to enjoy material luxuries."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a poor or needy person"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>indigents</strong>, huddled under the overpass, tried to start a small bonfire in the hope of staying warm."}]},{"id":98,"slug":"arrant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arrant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arrant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> complete and wholly (usually modifying a noun with negative connotation)"},{"type":"example","content":"An <strong>arrant</strong> fool, Lawrence surprised nobody when he lost all his money in a pyramid scheme that was every bit as transparent as it was corrupt."}]},{"id":103,"slug":"artless","front":[{"type":"word","content":"artless"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"artless","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without cunning or deceit"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite the president's seemingly <strong>artless</strong> speeches, he was a skilled and ruthless negotiator."}]},{"id":107,"slug":"expunge","front":[{"type":"word","content":"expunge"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"expunge","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to eliminate completely"},{"type":"example","content":"When I turned 18, all of the shoplifting and jaywalking charges were <strong>expunged</strong> from my criminal record."}]},{"id":112,"slug":"ponderous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ponderous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ponderous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> weighed-down; moving slowly"},{"type":"example","content":"Laden with 20 kilograms of college text books, the freshman moved <strong>ponderously</strong> across the campus. "}]},{"id":114,"slug":"kowtow","front":[{"type":"word","content":"kowtow"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"kowtow","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to bow or act in a subservient manner"},{"type":"example","content":"Paul <strong>kowtowed</strong> to his boss so often the boss herself became nauseated by his sycophancy."}]},{"id":122,"slug":"pariah","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pariah"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pariah","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an outcast"},{"type":"example","content":"The once eminent scientist, upon being found guilty of faking his data, has become a <strong>pariah</strong> in the research community."}]},{"id":124,"slug":"zeitgeist","front":[{"type":"word","content":"zeitgeist"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"zeitgeist","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> spirit of the times"},{"type":"example","content":"Each decade has its own <strong>zeitgeist</strong>\u2014the 1990\u2019s was a prosperous time in which the promise of the American Dream never seemed more palpable. "}]},{"id":137,"slug":"hector","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hector"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hector","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to bully or intimidate"},{"type":"example","content":"The boss\u2019s <strong>hectoring</strong> manner put off many employees, some of whom quit as soon as they found new jobs."}]},{"id":149,"slug":"byzantine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"byzantine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"byzantine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> intricate and complex"},{"type":"example","content":"Getting a driver\u2019s license is not simply a matter of taking a test; the regulations and procedures are so <strong>byzantine</strong> that many have found themselves at the mercy of the Department of Motor Vehicles."}]},{"id":150,"slug":"supercilious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"supercilious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"supercilious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> haughty and disdainful; looking down on others"},{"type":"example","content":"Nelly felt the Quiz Bowl director acted <strong>superciliously</strong> towards the underclassmen; really, she fumed, must he act so preternaturally omniscient each time he intones some obscure fact\u2014as though \r\neverybody knows that Mt. Aconcagua is the highest peak in South America. "}]},{"id":155,"slug":"saturnine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"saturnine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"saturnine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> morose or gloomy"},{"type":"example","content":"Deprived of sunlight, humans become <strong>saturnine</strong>; that\u2019s why in very northerly territories people are encouraged to sit under an extremely powerful lamp, lest they become morose."}]},{"id":161,"slug":"choleric","front":[{"type":"word","content":"choleric"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"choleric","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> prone to outbursts of temper; easily angered"},{"type":"example","content":"While a brilliant lecturer, Mr. Dawson came across as <strong>choleric</strong> and unapproachable\u2014very rarely did students come to his office hours. "}]},{"id":170,"slug":"catholic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"catholic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"catholic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> of broad scope; universal"},{"type":"example","content":"Jonah\u2019s friends said that Jonah\u2019s taste in music was eclectic; Jonah was quick to point out that not only was his taste eclectic but it was also <strong>catholic</strong>: he enjoyed music from countries as far-flung as Mali and Mongolia. "}]},{"id":171,"slug":"anathema","front":[{"type":"word","content":"anathema"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"anathema","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a detested person; the source of somebody's hate"},{"type":"example","content":"Hundreds of years ago, Galileo was <strong>anathema</strong> to the church; today the church is <strong>anathema</strong> to some on the left side of the political spectrum."}]},{"id":174,"slug":"apostate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apostate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apostate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who has abandoned a religious faith or cause"},{"type":"example","content":"An <strong>apostate</strong> of the Republican Party, Sheldon has yet to become affiliated with any party and dubs himself an independent."}]},{"id":177,"slug":"malfeasance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malfeasance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malfeasance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> misconduct or wrongdoing (especially by a public official)"},{"type":"example","content":"Not even the mayor\u2019s trademark pearly-toothed grin could save him from charges of <strong>malfeasance</strong>: while in power, he\u2019d been running an illegal gambling rink in the room behind his office. "}]},{"id":180,"slug":"lascivious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lascivious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lascivious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lecherous; sexually perverted"},{"type":"example","content":"Lolita is a challenging novel for many, not necessarily because of the elevated prose style but because of the depravity of the main character, Humbert Humbert, who, as an old, <strong>lascivious</strong> man, falls in love with a girl. "}]},{"id":187,"slug":"turpitude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"turpitude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"turpitude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> depravity; a depraved act"},{"type":"example","content":"During his reign, Caligula indulged in unspeakable sexual practices, so it is not surprising that he will forever be remembered for his <strong>turpitude</strong>."}]},{"id":194,"slug":"feckless","front":[{"type":"word","content":"feckless"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"feckless","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lazy and irresponsible"},{"type":"example","content":"Two years after graduation, Charlie still lived with his parents and had no job, becoming more <strong>feckless</strong> with each passing day."}]},{"id":201,"slug":"penurious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"penurious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"penurious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking money; poor"},{"type":"example","content":"Truly <strong>penurious</strong>, Mary had nothing more than a jar full of pennies."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> miserly"},{"type":"example","content":"Warren Buffett, famous multi-billionaire,  still drives a cheap sedan, not because he is <strong>penurious</strong>, but because luxury cars are gaudy and impractical."}]},{"id":216,"slug":"defray","front":[{"type":"word","content":"defray"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"defray","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to help pay the cost of, either in part or full"},{"type":"example","content":"In order for Sean to attend the prestigious college, his generous uncle helped <strong>defray</strong> the excessive tuition with a monthly donation."}]},{"id":220,"slug":"insufferable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"insufferable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"insufferable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> intolerable, difficult to endure"},{"type":"example","content":"Chester always tried to find some area in which he excelled above others; unsurprisingly, his co-workers found him <strong>insufferable</strong> and chose to exclude him from daily luncheons out. "}]},{"id":224,"slug":"exegesis","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exegesis"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exegesis","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> critical explanation or analysis, especially of a text"},{"type":"example","content":"The Bible is fertile ground for <strong>exegesis</strong>\u2014over the past five centuries there have been as many interpretations as there are pages in the Old Testament."}]},{"id":242,"slug":"apogee","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apogee"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apogee","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the highest point"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>apogee</strong> of the Viennese style of music, Mozart\u2019s music continues to mesmerize audiences well into the 21st century."}]},{"id":246,"slug":"vicissitude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vicissitude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vicissitude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> change in one\u2019s circumstances, usually for the worse"},{"type":"example","content":"Even great rulers have their <strong>vicissitudes</strong>\u2014massive kingdoms have diminished overnight, and once beloved kings have faced the scorn of angry masses.  "}]},{"id":248,"slug":"nadir","front":[{"type":"word","content":"nadir"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"nadir","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the lowest point"},{"type":"example","content":"For many pop music fans, the rap\u2013 and alternative-rock\u2013dominated 90s were the <strong>nadir</strong> of musical expression."}]},{"id":250,"slug":"untoward","front":[{"type":"word","content":"untoward"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"untoward","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unfavorable; inconvenient"},{"type":"example","content":"Some professors find teaching <strong>untoward</strong> as having to prepare for lectures and conduct office hours prevents them from focusing on their research."}]},{"id":253,"slug":"factious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"factious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"factious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> produced by, or characterized by internal dissension"},{"type":"example","content":"The controversial bill proved <strong>factious</strong>, as dissension even within parties resulted"}]},{"id":254,"slug":"fractious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fractious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fractious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> irritable and is likely to cause disruption"},{"type":"example","content":"We rarely invite my <strong>fractious</strong> Uncle over for dinner; he always complains about the food, and usually launches into a tirade on some touchy subject."}]},{"id":257,"slug":"chary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> cautious, suspiciously reluctant to do something"},{"type":"example","content":"Having received three speeding tickets in the last two months, Jack was <strong>chary</strong> of driving at all above the speed limit, even on a straight stretch of highway that looked empty for miles ahead.   "}]},{"id":258,"slug":"overweening","front":[{"type":"word","content":"overweening"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"overweening","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> arrogant; presumptuous"},{"type":"example","content":"Mark was so convinced of his basketball skills that in his <strong>overweening</strong> pride he could not fathom that his name was not on the varsity list; he walked up to the basketball coach and told her she had forgotten to add his name."}]},{"id":262,"slug":"truculent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"truculent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"truculent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having a fierce, savage nature"},{"type":"example","content":"Standing in line for six hours, she became progressively <strong>truculent</strong>, yelling at DMV employees and elbowing other people waiting in line. "}]},{"id":265,"slug":"jingoist","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jingoist"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jingoist","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who thinks their country is always right and who is in favor of aggressive acts against other countries"},{"type":"example","content":"In the days leading up to war, a nation typically breaks up into the two opposing camps: doves, who do their best to avoid war, and <strong>jingoists</strong>, who are only too eager to wave national flags from their vehicles and vehemently denounce those who do not do the same. "}]},{"id":268,"slug":"churlish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"churlish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"churlish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking manners or refinement"},{"type":"example","content":"The manager was unnecessarily <strong>churlish</strong> to his subordinates, rarely deigning to say hello, but always quick with a sartorial jab if someone happened to be wearing anything even slightly mismatching."}]},{"id":274,"slug":"conciliate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"conciliate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"conciliate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make peace with"},{"type":"example","content":"His opponents believed his gesture to be <strong>conciliatory</strong>, yet as soon as they put down their weapons, he unsheathed a hidden sword."}]},{"id":283,"slug":"cow","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cow"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cow","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to intimidate"},{"type":"example","content":"Do not be <strong>cowed</strong> by a 3,000-word vocabulary list: turn that list into a deck of flashcards!"},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":292,"slug":"attenuate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"attenuate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"attenuate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to weaken (in terms of intensity); to taper off/become thinner."},{"type":"example","content":"Her animosity towards Bob <strong>attenuated</strong> over the years, and she even went so far as to invite him to her party. "}]},{"id":312,"slug":"diatribe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"diatribe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"diatribe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a strong verbal attack against a person or institution"},{"type":"example","content":"Steve\u2019s mom launched into a <strong>diatribe</strong> during the PTA meeting, contending that the school was little more than a daycare in which students stare at the wall and teachers stare at the chalkboard. "}]},{"id":323,"slug":"precipitate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"precipitate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"precipitate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> hasty or rash"},{"type":"example","content":"Instead of conducting a thorough investigation after the city hall break-in, the governor acted <strong>precipitately</strong>, accusing his staff of aiding and abetting the criminals. "},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to cause to happen"},{"type":"example","content":"The government's mishandling of the hurricane's aftermath <strong>precipitated</strong> a widespread outbreak of looting and other criminal activity."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":28,"slug":"blinkered","front":[{"type":"word","content":"blinkered"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"blinkered","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to have a limited outlook or understanding"},{"type":"example","content":"In gambling, the addict is easily <strong>blinkered</strong> by past successes and/or past failures, forgetting that the outcome of any one game is independent of the games that preceded it."}]},{"id":37,"slug":"fell","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fell"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fell","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> terribly evil"},{"type":"example","content":"For fans of the Harry Potter series, the <strong>fell</strong> Lord Voldemort, who terrorized poor Harry for seven lengthy installments, has finally been vanquished by the forces of good\u2014unless, that is, JK Rowling decides to come out of retirement."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":38,"slug":"arch","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arch"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arch","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be deliberately teasing"},{"type":"example","content":"The baroness was <strong>arch</strong>, making playful asides to the townspeople; yet because they couldn't pick up on her dry humor, they thought her supercilious."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":49,"slug":"histrionic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"histrionic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"histrionic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be overly theatrical"},{"type":"example","content":"Though she received a B- on the test, she had such a <strong>histrionic</strong> outburst that one would have thought that she\u2019d been handed a death sentence."}]},{"id":68,"slug":"benighted","front":[{"type":"word","content":"benighted"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"benighted","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> fallen into a state of ignorance"},{"type":"example","content":"Far from being a period of utter <strong>benightedness</strong>, The Medieval Ages produced some great works of theological speculation."}]},{"id":72,"slug":"hedge","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hedge"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hedge","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to limit or qualify a statement; to avoid making a direct statement"},{"type":"example","content":"When asked why he had decided to buy millions of shares at the very moment the tech companies stock soared, the CEO <strong>hedged</strong>, mentioning something vague about gut instinct."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":92,"slug":"peremptory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"peremptory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"peremptory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> bossy and domineering"},{"type":"example","content":"My sister used to <strong>peremptorily</strong> tell me to do the dishes, a chore I would either do perfunctorily or avoid doing altogether."}]},{"id":105,"slug":"expurgate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"expurgate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"expurgate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to remove objectionable material"},{"type":"example","content":"The censor <strong>expurgated</strong> every reference to sex and drugs, converting the rapper's raunchy flow into a series of bleeps."}]},{"id":118,"slug":"imbroglio","front":[{"type":"word","content":"imbroglio"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"imbroglio","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a confusing and potentially embarrassing situation"},{"type":"example","content":"The chef cook-off featured one gourmand who had the unfortunate distinction of mixing the wrong broths, creating an <strong>imbroglio</strong> that diners would not soon forget."}]},{"id":119,"slug":"juggernaut","front":[{"type":"word","content":"juggernaut"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"juggernaut","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a force that cannot be stopped"},{"type":"example","content":"Napoleon was considered a <strong>juggernaut</strong> until he decided to invade Russia in winter; after which, his once indomitable army was decimated by cold and famine."}]},{"id":120,"slug":"schadenfreude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"schadenfreude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"schadenfreude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> joy from watching the suffering of others"},{"type":"example","content":"From his warm apartment window, Stanley reveled in <strong>schadenfreude</strong> as he laughed at the figures below, huddled together in the arctic chill."}]},{"id":125,"slug":"sangfroid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sangfroid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sangfroid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> calmness or poise in difficult situations"},{"type":"example","content":"The hostage negotiator exhibited a <strong>sangfroid</strong> that oftentimes was more menacing than the sword at his throat, or the gun at his head."}]},{"id":126,"slug":"parvenu","front":[{"type":"word","content":"parvenu"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"parvenu","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who has suddenly become wealthy, but not socially accepted as part of a higher class"},{"type":"example","content":"The theater was full of <strong>parvenus</strong> who each thought that they were surrounded by true aristocrats."}]},{"id":128,"slug":"arriviste","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arriviste"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arriviste","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who has recently reached a position of power; a social climber"},{"type":"example","content":"The city center was aflutter with <strong>arrivistes</strong> who tried to outdo one another with their ostentatious sports cars and chic evening dress."}]},{"id":132,"slug":"picayune","front":[{"type":"word","content":"picayune"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"picayune","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> trifling or petty (a person)"},{"type":"example","content":"English teachers are notorious for being <strong>picayune</strong>; however, the English language is so nuanced and sophisticated that often such teachers are not being contrary but are only adhering to the rules. "}]},{"id":135,"slug":"gerrymander","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gerrymander"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gerrymander","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to manipulate voting districts in order to favor a particular political party"},{"type":"example","content":"Years ago, savvy politicians had <strong>gerrymandered</strong> the city center to ensure their re-election."}]},{"id":139,"slug":"Pollyannaish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"Pollyannaish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"Pollyannaish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> extremely optimistic"},{"type":"example","content":"Even in the midst of a lousy sales quarter, Debbie remained <strong>Pollyannaish</strong>, never losing her shrill voice and wide smile, even when prospective customers hung up on her."}]},{"id":141,"slug":"pyrrhic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pyrrhic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pyrrhic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> describing a victory that comes at such a great cost that the victory is not worthwhile"},{"type":"example","content":"George W. Bush\u2019s win in the 2000 election was in many ways a <strong>pyrrhic</strong> victory: the circumstances of his win alienated half of the U.S. population. "}]},{"id":143,"slug":"quixotic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"quixotic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"quixotic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> wildly idealistic; impractical"},{"type":"example","content":"For every thousand startups with <strong>quixotic</strong> plans to be the next big name in e-commerce, only a handful ever become profitable."}]},{"id":144,"slug":"maudlin","front":[{"type":"word","content":"maudlin"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"maudlin","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> overly emotional and sad"},{"type":"example","content":"Just as those who were alive during the 70\u2019s are mortified that they once cavorted about in bellbottoms, many who lived during the 80\u2019s are now aghast at the <strong>maudlin</strong> pop songs they used to enjoy\u2014really, just what exactly is a total eclipse of the heart?"}]},{"id":146,"slug":"malapropism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malapropism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malapropism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the confusion of a word with another word that sounds similar "},{"type":"example","content":"Whenever I looked glum, my mother would offer to share \"an amusing antidote\" with me\u2014an endearing <strong>malapropism</strong> of \"anecdote\" that never failed to cheer me up."}]},{"id":147,"slug":"quisling","front":[{"type":"word","content":"quisling"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"quisling","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a traitor"},{"type":"example","content":"History looks unfavorably upon <strong>quislings</strong>; indeed they are accorded about the same fondness as Nero\u2014he who watched his city burn down while playing the violin."}]},{"id":152,"slug":"protean","front":[{"type":"word","content":"protean"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"protean","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> readily taking on different roles; versatile"},{"type":"example","content":"Peter Sellers was truly a <strong>protean</strong> actor\u2014in Doctor Strangelove he played three very different roles: a jingoist general, a sedate President and a deranged scientist."}]},{"id":153,"slug":"sartorial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sartorial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sartorial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> related to fashion or clothes"},{"type":"example","content":"Monte was astute at navigating the world of finance; <strong>sartorially</strong>, however, he was found wanting\u2014he typically would attempt to complement his beige tie with a gray suit and white pants."}]},{"id":157,"slug":"jaundiced","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jaundiced"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jaundiced","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be biased against due to envy or prejudice"},{"type":"example","content":"Shelly was <strong>jaundiced</strong> towards Olivia; though the two had once been best friends, Olivia had become class president, prom queen, and, to make matters worse, the girlfriend of the one boy Shelly liked."}]},{"id":159,"slug":"jejune","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jejune"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jejune","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dull; lacking flavor"},{"type":"example","content":"Although many top chefs have secured culinary foam's popularity in haute cuisine, Waters criticizes it for being <strong>jejune</strong> and unfilling."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> immature; childish"},{"type":"example","content":"Her boss further cemented his reputation for being <strong>jejune</strong> after throwing a fit when the water cooler wasn't refilled."}]},{"id":160,"slug":"bilious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bilious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bilious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> irritable; always angry"},{"type":"example","content":"Rex was <strong>bilious</strong> all morning, and his face would only take on a look of contentedness when he\u2019d had his morning cup of coffee."}]},{"id":163,"slug":"martinet","front":[{"type":"word","content":"martinet"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"martinet","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a strict disciplinarian"},{"type":"example","content":"The job seemed perfect to Rebecca, until she found out that her boss was a total <strong>martinet</strong>; after each project the boss would come by to scrutinize\u2014and inevitably criticize\u2014every little detail of the work \r\nRebecca had done."}]},{"id":164,"slug":"curmudgeon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"curmudgeon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"curmudgeon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a grouchy, surly person"},{"type":"example","content":"Since Uncle Mike was the family <strong>curmudgeon</strong>, each Thanksgiving he was plied with copious amounts of wine, in the hope that he would become less grouchy."}]},{"id":178,"slug":"remonstrate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"remonstrate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"remonstrate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make objections while pleading"},{"type":"example","content":"The mothers of the kidnapped victims <strong>remonstrated</strong> to the rogue government to release their children, claiming that the detention violated human rights."}]},{"id":189,"slug":"limpid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"limpid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"limpid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having clarity in terms of expression"},{"type":"example","content":"Her <strong>limpid</strong> prose made even the most recondite subjects accessible to all."}]},{"id":192,"slug":"tendentious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tendentious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tendentious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> likely to lean towards a controversial view"},{"type":"example","content":"Because political mudslinging has become a staple of the 24-hour media cycle, most of us, despite protestations to the contrary, are <strong>tendentious</strong> on many of today\u2019s pressing issues."}]},{"id":195,"slug":"sybarite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sybarite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sybarite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who indulges in luxury"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite the fact that he\u2019d maxed out fifteen credit cards, Max was still a <strong>sybarite</strong> at heart: when the police found him, he was at a $1,000 an hour spa in Manhattan, getting a facial treatment."}]},{"id":196,"slug":"impecunious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impecunious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impecunious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking money; poor"},{"type":"example","content":"In extremely trying times, even the moderately wealthy, after a few turns of ill-fortune, can become <strong>impecunious</strong>. "}]},{"id":197,"slug":"propitiate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"propitiate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"propitiate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to placate or appease"},{"type":"example","content":"The two sons, plying their angry father with cheesy neckties for Christmas, were hardly able to <strong>propitiate</strong> him \u2013 the father already had a drawer full of ones he had never worn before or ever planned to."}]},{"id":198,"slug":"sententious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sententious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sententious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be moralizing, usually in a pompous sense"},{"type":"example","content":"The old man, casting his nose up in the air at the group of adolescents, intoned <strong>sententiously</strong>, \u201cYouth is wasted on the young.\u201d"}]},{"id":214,"slug":"cupidity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cupidity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cupidity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> greed for money"},{"type":"example","content":"Some people believe that amassing as much wealth as possible is the meaning to life\u2014yet they often realize that <strong>cupidity</strong> brings anything but happiness. "}]},{"id":225,"slug":"execrate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"execrate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"execrate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to curse and hiss at"},{"type":"example","content":"Though the new sitcom did decently in the ratings, Nelson railed against the show, saying that it was nothing more than an <strong>execrable</strong> pastiche of tired clich\u00e9\u2019s and canned laughter."}]},{"id":226,"slug":"mulct","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mulct"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mulct","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to defraud or swindle"},{"type":"example","content":"The so-called magical diet cure simply ended up <strong>mulcting</strong> Maria out of hundreds of dollars, but did nothing for her weight."}]},{"id":230,"slug":"excoriate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"excoriate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"excoriate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to criticize very harshly"},{"type":"example","content":"Entrusted with the prototype to his company\u2019s latest smartphone, Larry, during a late night karaoke bout, let the prototype slip into the hands of a rival company\u2014the next day Larry was <strong>excoriated</strong>, and then fired. "}]},{"id":243,"slug":"venial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"venial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"venial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> easily excused or forgiven; pardonable"},{"type":"example","content":"His traffic violations ran the gamut from the <strong>venial</strong> to the egregious\u2014on one occasion he simply did not come to a complete stop; another time he tried to escape across state lines at speeds in excess of 140 mph."}]},{"id":244,"slug":"apotheosis","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apotheosis"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apotheosis","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> exaltation to divine status; the highest point of development "},{"type":"example","content":"As difficult as it is to imagine, the <strong>apotheosis</strong> of Mark Zuckerberg\u2019s career, many believe, is yet to come."}]},{"id":251,"slug":"factitious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"factitious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"factitious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> artificial; not natural"},{"type":"example","content":"The defendant\u2019s story was largely <strong>factitious</strong> and did not accord with eyewitness testimonies"}]},{"id":290,"slug":"mellifluous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mellifluous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mellifluous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> smooth and sweet-sounding"},{"type":"example","content":"Chelsea\u2019s grandmother thought Franz Schubert\u2019s music to be the most <strong>mellifluous</strong> ever written; Chelsea demurred, and to her grandmother\u2019s chagrin, would blast Rihanna on the home stereo speakers. "}]},{"id":293,"slug":"palimpsest","front":[{"type":"word","content":"palimpsest"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"palimpsest","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something that has been changed numerous times but on which traces of former iterations can still be seen"},{"type":"example","content":"The downtown was a <strong>palimpsest</strong> of the city\u2019s checkered past: a new Starbucks had opened up next to\r\nan abandoned, shuttered building, and a freshly asphalted road was inches away from a pothole large enough to swallow a small dog."}]},{"id":303,"slug":"mettlesome","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mettlesome"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mettlesome","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> filled with courage or valor"},{"type":"example","content":"For its raid on the Bin Laden\u2019s compound in Abbottabad, Seal Team Six has become, for many Americans, the embodiment of <strong>mettle</strong>."}]},{"id":305,"slug":"disabuse","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disabuse"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disabuse","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to persuade somebody that his/her belief is not valid"},{"type":"example","content":"As a child, I was quickly <strong>disabused</strong> of the notion that Santa Claus was a rotund benefactor of infinite largess\u2014one night I saw my mother diligently wrapping presents and storing them under our Christmas tree."}]},{"id":309,"slug":"invective","front":[{"type":"word","content":"invective"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"invective","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> abusive or denunciatory language"},{"type":"example","content":"The Internet has unleashed the <strong>invectives</strong> in many of us; many people post stinging criticism on the comments section underneath newspaper articles or YouTube videos."}]},{"id":319,"slug":"vituperate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vituperate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vituperate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to criticize harshly; to berate"},{"type":"example","content":"Jason had dealt with disciplinarians before, but nothing prepared him for the first week of boot camp, as drill sergeants <strong>vituperate</strong>d him for petty oversights such as forgetting to double knot the laces on his boots. "}]},{"id":320,"slug":"phantasmagorical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"phantasmagorical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"phantasmagorical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> illusive; unreal"},{"type":"example","content":"Those suffering from malaria fall into a feverish sleep, their world a whirligig of <strong>phantasmagoria</strong>; if they recover, they are unsure of what actually took place and what was simply a product of their febrile imaginations."}]},{"id":1320,"slug":"wordgame-video-lessons","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Video Lessons"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Video Lessons","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> A resource available to students to help them study for the GRE.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"Chris did well on the GRE after learning from over 200 <strong>WordGame video lessons</strong>.  "}]},{"id":379,"slug":"advocate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"advocate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"advocate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> speak, plead, or argue in favor of"},{"type":"example","content":"While the senator privately approved of gay marriage, he was unwilling to <strong>advocate</strong> for the cause in a public venue."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who pleads for a cause or propounds an idea"},{"type":"example","content":"Martin Luther King Jr. was a tireless <strong>advocate</strong> for the rights of African-Americans in the United States.\u00a0"},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":404,"slug":"appreciable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"appreciable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"appreciable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> large enough to be noticed (usu. refers to an amount)"},{"type":"example","content":"There is an <strong>appreciable</strong> difference between those who say they can get the job done and those who actually get the job done."}]},{"id":405,"slug":"apprehension","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apprehension"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apprehension","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> fearful expectation"},{"type":"example","content":"Test day can be one of pure <strong>apprehension</strong>, as many students worry about their test scores."}]},{"id":411,"slug":"archaic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"archaic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"archaic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> so old as to appear to belong to a different period"},{"type":"example","content":"Hoping to sound intelligent, Mary spoke in <strong>archaic</strong> English that was right out of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice--needless to say, she didn't have many friends."}]},{"id":416,"slug":"ascendancy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ascendancy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ascendancy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the state that exists when one person or group has power over another"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>ascendancy</strong> of the Carlsbad water polo team is clear\u2014they have a decade of championships behind them."}]},{"id":433,"slug":"autonomously","front":[{"type":"word","content":"autonomously"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"autonomously","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adverb:</strong> Acting independently; self-governing (of a country)"},{"type":"example","content":"Many of the factory workers are worried about being replaced by machines and computers that will work completely <strong>autonomously</strong>."}]},{"id":436,"slug":"avid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"avid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"avid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by active interest and enthusiasm"},{"type":"example","content":"Martin is an <strong>avid</strong> birdwatcher, often taking long hikes into remote mountains to see some rare eagle."}]},{"id":456,"slug":"boon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"boon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"boon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a desirable state"},{"type":"example","content":"Modern technology has been a <strong>boon</strong> to the travel industry."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very close and convivial"},{"type":"example","content":"He was a <strong>boon</strong> companion to many, and will be sadly missed."}]},{"id":515,"slug":"consummate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"consummate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"consummate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having or revealing supreme mastery or skill"},{"type":"example","content":"Tyler was the <strong>consummate</strong> musician: he was able to play the guitar, harmonica, and the drum at the same time."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make perfect and complete in every respect"},{"type":"example","content":"The restoration of the ancient church was only <strong>consummated</strong> after a twenty years of labor."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":541,"slug":"dearth","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dearth"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dearth","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a lack or shortage"},{"type":"example","content":"I am surprised by the <strong>dearth</strong> of fast food chains; this is America and I assumed they were on every street."}]},{"id":551,"slug":"degrade","front":[{"type":"word","content":"degrade"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"degrade","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reduce in worth or character, usually verbally"},{"type":"example","content":"Jesse had mockingly pointed out all of Nancy's faults in front of their friends, publicly <strong>degrading</strong> the poor girl."}]},{"id":573,"slug":"deter","front":[{"type":"word","content":"deter"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"deter","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> turn away from by persuasion"},{"type":"example","content":"His mother tried to <strong>deter</strong> him from joining the army, but he was too intoxicated with the idea of war to listen."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> try to prevent; show opposition to"},{"type":"example","content":"The government's primary job should involve <strong>deterring</strong> paths to war, not finding ways to start them."}]},{"id":589,"slug":"discriminate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"discriminate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"discriminate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> recognize or perceive the difference"},{"type":"example","content":"Sarah couldn't <strong>discriminate</strong> between a good wine and a bad wine, so she avoided wine tastings."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":591,"slug":"disenfranchise","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disenfranchise"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disenfranchise","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> deprive of voting rights"},{"type":"example","content":"The U.S. Constitution <strong>disenfranchised</strong> women until 1920 when they were given the right to vote."}]},{"id":592,"slug":"disheartened","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disheartened"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disheartened","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> made less hopeful or enthusiastic"},{"type":"example","content":"After the visiting team scored nine times, the home team's fans were <strong>disheartened</strong>, some leaving the game early."}]},{"id":626,"slug":"elusive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"elusive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"elusive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> difficult to capture or difficult to remember"},{"type":"example","content":"Many first time skydivers say that describing the act of falling from the sky is <strong>elusive</strong>."}]},{"id":635,"slug":"endemic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"endemic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"endemic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> native; originating where it is found"},{"type":"example","content":"Irish cuisine makes great use of potatoes, but ironically, the potato is not <strong>endemic</strong> to Ireland."}]},{"id":641,"slug":"entice","front":[{"type":"word","content":"entice"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"entice","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> get someone to do something through (often false or exaggerated) promises"},{"type":"example","content":"Harold <strong>enticed</strong> his wife, Maude, to go on a vacation to Hawaii, with promises of luaus on the beach and all-you-can-eat seafood buffets."}]},{"id":679,"slug":"fete","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fete"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fete","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to celebrate a person"},{"type":"example","content":"After World War II, war heroes were <strong>feted</strong> at first but quickly forgotten."}]},{"id":684,"slug":"fledgling","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fledgling"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fledgling","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> young and inexperienced <br>\r\n<strong>noun:</strong> any new participant in some activity"},{"type":"example","content":"Murray has years of experience in family practice, but he is just a <strong>fledgling</strong> in surgery."}]},{"id":686,"slug":"flounder","front":[{"type":"word","content":"flounder"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"flounder","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> behave awkwardly; have difficulties"},{"type":"example","content":"Sylvia has excelled at advanced calculus, but ironically, when she has to deal with taxes, she <strong>flounders</strong>."}]},{"id":717,"slug":"guffaw","front":[{"type":"word","content":"guffaw"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"guffaw","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> laugh boisterously"},{"type":"example","content":"Whenever the jester fell to the ground in mock pain, the king <strong>guffawed</strong>, exposing his yellow, fang-like teeth."}]},{"id":748,"slug":"impede","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impede"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impede","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be a hindrance or obstacle to"},{"type":"example","content":"Since the police sergeant had to train the pair of new hires, progress in his own case was <strong>impeded</strong>."}]},{"id":751,"slug":"impermeable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impermeable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impermeable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> does not allow fluids to pass through"},{"type":"example","content":"The sand bags placed on the river formed an <strong>impermeable</strong> barrier, protecting the town from flooding."}]},{"id":768,"slug":"incessant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incessant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incessant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing"},{"type":"example","content":"I don't mind small children in brief doses, but I think the <strong>incessant</strong> exposure that their parents have to them would quickly wear me down."}]},{"id":771,"slug":"inclement","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inclement"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inclement","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of weather) unpleasant, stormy"},{"type":"example","content":"After a week of <strong>inclement</strong> weather, we finally are able to go outside and enjoy the sun."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> used of persons or behavior; showing no mercy"},{"type":"example","content":"Marcus Aurelius, though a fair man, was <strong>inclement</strong> to Christians during his reign, persecuting them violently."}]},{"id":785,"slug":"ingenuity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ingenuity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ingenuity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the power of creative imagination"},{"type":"example","content":"Daedalus was famous for his <strong>ingenuity</strong>; he was able to fashion his son Icarus with a pair of wings, using wax to hold them together."}]},{"id":813,"slug":"jocular","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jocular"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jocular","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by jokes and good humor"},{"type":"example","content":"My uncle was always in a <strong>jocular</strong> mood at family gatherings, messing up people's hair and telling knock-knock jokes to anyone who would listen."}]},{"id":837,"slug":"malady","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malady"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malady","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a disease or sickness"},{"type":"example","content":"The town was struck by a <strong>malady</strong> throughout the winter that left most people sick in bed for two weeks."}]},{"id":840,"slug":"malleable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malleable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malleable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> capable of being shaped or bent or drawn out"},{"type":"example","content":"The clay became <strong>malleable</strong> and easy to work with after a little water was added."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> easily influenced"},{"type":"example","content":"My little brother is so <strong>malleable</strong> that I can convince him to sneak cookies from the cupboard for me."}]},{"id":847,"slug":"meander","front":[{"type":"word","content":"meander"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"meander","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to wander aimlessly"},{"type":"example","content":"A casual observer might have thought that Peter was <strong>meandering</strong> through the city, but that day he was actually seeking out those places where he and his long lost love had once visited."}]},{"id":860,"slug":"moot","front":[{"type":"word","content":"moot"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"moot","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> open to argument or debate; undecidable in a meaningless or irrelevant way"},{"type":"example","content":"Since the Board just terminated Steve as the CEO, what the finance committee might have thought of his proposed marketing plan for next year is now a <strong>moot</strong> point."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":863,"slug":"morose","front":[{"type":"word","content":"morose"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"morose","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> ill-tempered and not inclined to talk; gloomy"},{"type":"example","content":"After Stanley found out he was no longer able to go on vacation with his friends, he sat in his room <strong>morosely</strong>."}]},{"id":867,"slug":"muted","front":[{"type":"word","content":"muted"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"muted","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> softened, subdued"},{"type":"example","content":"Helen preferred <strong>muted</strong> earth colors, such as green and brown, to the bright pinks and red her sister liked."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":877,"slug":"obdurate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obdurate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obdurate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unable to be persuaded or moved emotionally; stubborn; unyielding."},{"type":"example","content":"No number of pleas and bribes would get him to change his <strong>obdurate</strong> attitude."}]},{"id":891,"slug":"ornate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ornate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ornate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by elaborate rhetoric and elaborated with decorative details"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>ornate</strong> Victorian and Edwardian homes spread throughout San Francisco are my favorite part of the city."}]},{"id":905,"slug":"patronize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"patronize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"patronize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> treat condescendingly"},{"type":"example","content":"She says she genuinely wanted to help me, but instead she <strong>patronized</strong> me, constantly pointing out how I was inferior to her."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":928,"slug":"pithy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pithy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pithy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> concise and full of meaning"},{"type":"example","content":"I enjoy reading the Daodejing for its <strong>pithy</strong> and insightful prose; it always gives me something to think about."}]},{"id":932,"slug":"plodding","front":[{"type":"word","content":"plodding"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"plodding","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of movement) slow and laborious"},{"type":"example","content":"Charlie may seem to run at a <strong>plodding</strong> pace, but he is an ultramarathoner, meaning he runs distances of up to 100 miles, and can run for ten hours at a stretch."}]},{"id":964,"slug":"proponent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"proponent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"proponent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who pleads for a cause or propounds an idea"},{"type":"example","content":"Ironically, the leading <strong>proponent</strong> of Flat-Earth Theory flies all over the world in an effort to win more adherents."}]},{"id":977,"slug":"quandary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"quandary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"quandary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> state of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options"},{"type":"example","content":"Steve certainly is in a <strong>quandary</strong>: if he doesn't call Elaine, she will blame him for everything, but if he does call her, the evidence of where he currently is could cost him his job."}]},{"id":982,"slug":"raffish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"raffish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"raffish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by a carefree unconventionality or disreputableness"},{"type":"example","content":"The men found him <strong>raffish</strong>, but the women adored his smart clothes and casual attitude."}]},{"id":1001,"slug":"renege","front":[{"type":"word","content":"renege"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"renege","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> fail to fulfill a promise or obligation"},{"type":"example","content":"We will no longer work with that vendor since it has <strong>reneged</strong> on nearly every agreement."}]},{"id":1009,"slug":"resolve","front":[{"type":"word","content":"resolve"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"resolve","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reach a conclusion after a discussion or deliberation"},{"type":"example","content":"After much thought, Ted <strong>resolved</strong> not to travel abroad this summer because he didn't have much money in his bank account."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1010,"slug":"respite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"respite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"respite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a pause from doing something (as work)"},{"type":"example","content":"Every afternoon, the small company has a <strong>respite</strong> in which workers play foosball or board games."}]},{"id":1017,"slug":"robust","front":[{"type":"word","content":"robust"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"robust","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> sturdy and strong in form, constitution, or construction"},{"type":"example","content":"Chris preferred bland and mild beers, but Bhavin preferred a beer with more <strong>robust</strong> flavor."}]},{"id":1035,"slug":"snide","front":[{"type":"word","content":"snide"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"snide","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> expressive of contempt; derogatory or mocking in an indirect way"},{"type":"example","content":"The chairman interpreted Taylor's question about promotions as a <strong>snide</strong> remark, but in all innocence Taylor was trying to figure out the company's process."}]},{"id":1054,"slug":"stolid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stolid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stolid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having or revealing little emotion or sensibility; not easily aroused or excited"},{"type":"example","content":"Elephants may appear <strong>stolid</strong> to casual observers, but they actually have passionate emotional lives."}]},{"id":1081,"slug":"thwart","front":[{"type":"word","content":"thwart"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"thwart","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> hinder or prevent (the efforts, plans, or desires) of"},{"type":"example","content":"I wanted to spend a week in New York this autumn, but the high costs of travel and lodging <strong>thwarted</strong> my plans."}]},{"id":1088,"slug":"transitory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"transitory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"transitory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lasting a very short time"},{"type":"example","content":"If we lived forever and life was not <strong>transitory</strong>, do you think we would appreciate life less or more?"}]},{"id":383,"slug":"altruism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"altruism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"altruism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the quality of unselfish concern for the welfare of others"},{"type":"example","content":"Albert Schweitzer spent most of his life doing missionary work as a doctor in Africa, seeking no reward, apparently motivated only by <strong>altruism</strong>."}]},{"id":423,"slug":"assail","front":[{"type":"word","content":"assail"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"assail","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> attack in speech or writing"},{"type":"example","content":"In the weekly paper, the editor <strong>assailed</strong> the governor for wasting hundreds of thousands of dollars in public projects that quickly failed."}]},{"id":425,"slug":"assuage","front":[{"type":"word","content":"assuage"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"assuage","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make something intense less severe"},{"type":"example","content":"Her fear that the new college would be filled with unknown faces was <strong>assuaged</strong> when she recognized her childhood friend standing in line."}]},{"id":429,"slug":"augment","front":[{"type":"word","content":"augment"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"augment","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> enlarge or increase; improve"},{"type":"example","content":"Ideally, the restaurant's <strong>augmented</strong> menu will expand its clientele and increase its profits."}]},{"id":441,"slug":"banish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"banish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"banish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> expel from a community, residence, or location; drive away"},{"type":"example","content":"The most difficult part of the fast was <strong>banishing</strong> thoughts of food."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":449,"slug":"benign","front":[{"type":"word","content":"benign"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"benign","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> kind"},{"type":"example","content":"I remember my grandfather's face was wrinkled, <strong>benign</strong>, and calm."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (medicine) not dangerous to health; not recurrent or progressive"},{"type":"example","content":"The tumor located in your ear lobe seems to be <strong>benign</strong> and should not cause you any trouble."}]},{"id":467,"slug":"buck","front":[{"type":"word","content":"buck"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"buck","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> resist"},{"type":"example","content":"The profits at our firm <strong>bucked</strong> the general downturn that affected the real estate industry."}]},{"id":497,"slug":"commendable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"commendable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"commendable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> worthy of high praise"},{"type":"example","content":"The efforts of the firefighters running into the burning building were <strong>commendable</strong>."}]},{"id":505,"slug":"conducive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"conducive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"conducive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> making a situation or outcome more likely to happen"},{"type":"example","content":"Studying in a quiet room is <strong>conducive</strong> to learning; studying in a noisy environment makes learning more difficult."}]},{"id":516,"slug":"contemptuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"contemptuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"contemptuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> scornful, looking down at others with a sneering attitude"},{"type":"example","content":"Always on the forefront of fashion, Vanessa looked <strong>contemptuously</strong> at anyone wearing dated clothing."}]},{"id":524,"slug":"cornucopia","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cornucopia"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cornucopia","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an abundant supply of something good"},{"type":"example","content":"The International Food Expo was a <strong>cornucopia</strong> of culinary delights: gourmet foods from every continent were under one roof."}]},{"id":532,"slug":"credence","front":[{"type":"word","content":"credence"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"credence","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> belief in something"},{"type":"example","content":"He placed no <strong>credence</strong> in psychics, claiming that they offered no special powers beyond the ability to make people part with their money."}]},{"id":542,"slug":"debase","front":[{"type":"word","content":"debase"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"debase","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reduce the quality or value of something"},{"type":"example","content":"The third-rate script so <strong>debased</strong> the film that not even the flawless acting could save it from being a flop."}]},{"id":564,"slug":"derisive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"derisive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"derisive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> abusing vocally; expressing contempt or ridicule"},{"type":"example","content":"I was surprised by her <strong>derisive</strong> tone; usually, she is sweet, soft spoken, and congenial."}]},{"id":574,"slug":"detrimental","front":[{"type":"word","content":"detrimental"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"detrimental","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (sometimes followed by \"to\") causing harm or injury"},{"type":"example","content":"Many know that smoking is <strong>detrimental</strong> to your health, but processed sugar in large quantities is equally bad."}]},{"id":619,"slug":"egotist","front":[{"type":"word","content":"egotist"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"egotist","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a conceited and self-centered person"},{"type":"example","content":"An <strong>egotist</strong>, Natasha had few friends because of her inability to talk about anything except her dream of becoming the next American Idol."}]},{"id":621,"slug":"elaborate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"elaborate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"elaborate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by complexity and richness of detail"},{"type":"example","content":"Thomas, on returning from Morocco, replaced his dirty gray carpet with an <strong>elaborate</strong> one he'd brought back with him."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> explain in more detail"},{"type":"example","content":"Most high school physics teachers find themselves <strong>elaborating</strong> the same point over and over again, since many concepts confuse students."}]},{"id":630,"slug":"empathetic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"empathetic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"empathetic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing understanding and ready comprehension of other peoples' states and emotions"},{"type":"example","content":"Most discrimination and hatred is based on a lack of <strong>empathetic</strong> awareness of people that have the same aspirations and fears."}]},{"id":657,"slug":"euphoria","front":[{"type":"word","content":"euphoria"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"euphoria","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a feeling of great (usually exaggerated) elation"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>euphoria</strong> of winning her first gold medal in the 100 meter dash overwhelmed Shelly-Ann Fraser and she wept tears of immense joy."}]},{"id":673,"slug":"facetious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"facetious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"facetious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> cleverly amusing in tone"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Facetious</strong> behavior will not be tolerated during sex education class; it's time for all of you to treat these matters like mature adults."}]},{"id":680,"slug":"fickle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fickle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fickle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> liable to sudden unpredictable change, esp. in affections or attachments"},{"type":"example","content":"She was so <strong>fickle</strong> in her politics, it was hard to pinpoint her beliefs; one week she would embrace a side, and the next week she would denounce it."}]},{"id":706,"slug":"genial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"genial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"genial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> agreeable, conducive to comfort"},{"type":"example","content":"Betty is a <strong>genial</strong> young woman: everyone she meets is put at ease by her elegance and grace."}]},{"id":707,"slug":"genteel","front":[{"type":"word","content":"genteel"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"genteel","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by refinement in taste and manners"},{"type":"example","content":"A live string quartet would provide a more <strong>genteel</strong> air to the wedding than would a folk singer."}]},{"id":710,"slug":"glib","front":[{"type":"word","content":"glib"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"glib","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of a person) speaking with ease but without sincerity"},{"type":"example","content":"I have found that the more <strong>glib</strong> the salesman, the worse the product."}]},{"id":716,"slug":"grovel","front":[{"type":"word","content":"grovel"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"grovel","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> show submission or fear"},{"type":"example","content":"Every time Susan comes to the office, Frank <strong>grovels</strong> as if she were about to fire."}]},{"id":726,"slug":"hamstrung","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hamstrung"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hamstrung","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> made ineffective or powerless"},{"type":"example","content":"The FBI has made so many restrictions on the local police that they are absolutely <strong>hamstrung</strong>, unable to accomplish anything."}]},{"id":742,"slug":"illicit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"illicit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"illicit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> contrary to or forbidden by law"},{"type":"example","content":"Though Al Capone was engaged in many <strong>illicit</strong> activities, he was finally arrested for income tax evasion, a relatively minor offense."}]},{"id":747,"slug":"impeccable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impeccable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impeccable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without fault or error"},{"type":"example","content":"He was <strong>impeccably</strong> dressed in the latest fashion without a single crease or stain."}]},{"id":764,"slug":"inadvertent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inadvertent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inadvertent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> happening by chance or unexpectedly or unintentionally"},{"type":"example","content":"Although Prohibition was rooted in noble ideals, the <strong>inadvertent</strong> and costly consequences of making alcohol illegal in the U.S. led to its repeal."}]},{"id":808,"slug":"irresolute","front":[{"type":"word","content":"irresolute"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"irresolute","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> uncertain how to act or proceed"},{"type":"example","content":"He stood <strong>irresolute</strong> at the split in the trail, not sure which route would lead back to the camp."}]},{"id":811,"slug":"jargon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jargon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jargon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a characteristic language of a particular group"},{"type":"example","content":"To those with little training in medicine, the <strong>jargon</strong> of doctors can be very difficult to understand."}]},{"id":831,"slug":"lucid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lucid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lucid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of language) transparently clear; easily understandable"},{"type":"example","content":"Though Walters writes about physics and time travel, his writing is always <strong>lucid</strong>, so readers with little scientific training can understand difficult concepts."}]},{"id":842,"slug":"martial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"martial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"martial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> suggesting war or military life"},{"type":"example","content":"Americans tend to remember Abraham Lincoln as kindly and wise, not at all <strong>martial</strong>, despite the fact that he was involved in the fiercest war America has even fought."}]},{"id":913,"slug":"perennial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perennial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perennial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lasting an indefinitely long time; eternal; everlasting"},{"type":"example","content":"Even at the old-timers games, Stan Musial would get the loudest cheer: he was a <strong>perennial</strong> favorite of the fans there."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":917,"slug":"perpetuate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perpetuate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perpetuate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause to continue"},{"type":"example","content":"If you do not let him do things for himself, you are merely <strong>perpetuating</strong> bad habits that will be even harder to break in the future."}]},{"id":920,"slug":"pertinent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pertinent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pertinent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having precise or logical relevance to the matter at hand"},{"type":"example","content":"While the salaries of the players might draw attention in the media, such monetary figures are not <strong>pertinent</strong> to the question of who plays the best on the field."}]},{"id":942,"slug":"precedent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"precedent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"precedent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time"},{"type":"example","content":"The principal explained that even though one student had done modelling work outside of school, the outfits that student wore in those photographs in no way established a <strong>precedent</strong> for what could be worn at school dances."}]},{"id":954,"slug":"pristine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pristine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pristine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> Unspoiled, untouched (usu. of nature)"},{"type":"example","content":"The glacial lake was <strong>pristine</strong> and we filled our canteens to drink deeply."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> Immaculately clean and unused"},{"type":"example","content":"Drill sergeants are known for demanding <strong>pristine</strong> cabinets, uniforms, and beds, and often make new recruits clean and clean and clean until they meet the expected high standards."}]},{"id":985,"slug":"rankle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rankle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rankle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> gnaw into; make resentful or angry"},{"type":"example","content":"His constant whistling would <strong>rankle</strong> her, sometimes causing her to leave in a huff."}]},{"id":1029,"slug":"sentimental","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sentimental"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sentimental","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> effusively or insincerely emotional, especially in art, music, and literature"},{"type":"example","content":"I don't like romanticism for the same reason I don't like melodramatic acting and soap operas\u2014overly <strong>sentimental</strong>."}]},{"id":1033,"slug":"smattering","front":[{"type":"word","content":"smattering"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"smattering","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a slight or superficial understanding of a subject; a small amount of something"},{"type":"example","content":"I know only a <strong>smattering</strong> of German, but Helen is able to read German newspapers and converse with natives."}]},{"id":1047,"slug":"spurn","front":[{"type":"word","content":"spurn"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"spurn","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reject with contempt"},{"type":"example","content":"She <strong>spurned</strong> all his flattery and proposals, and so he walked off embarrassed and sad."}]},{"id":1065,"slug":"surly","front":[{"type":"word","content":"surly"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"surly","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> inclined to anger or bad feelings with overtones of menace"},{"type":"example","content":"Every morning, Bhavin was a <strong>surly</strong>, unhappy person, but once he ate breakfast, he became loving, laughing, and a joy to be around."}]},{"id":1073,"slug":"tawdry","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tawdry"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tawdry","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> tastelessly showy; cheap and shoddy"},{"type":"example","content":"Carol expected to find New York City magical, the way so many movies had portrayed it, but she was surprised how often <strong>tawdry</strong> displays took the place of genuine elegance."}]},{"id":1100,"slug":"tumult","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tumult"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tumult","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a state of chaos, noise and confusion"},{"type":"example","content":"Riots broke out just in front of our apartment building, and the <strong>tumult</strong> continued late into the night."}]},{"id":1106,"slug":"uncompromising","front":[{"type":"word","content":"uncompromising"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"uncompromising","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not making concessions"},{"type":"example","content":"The relationship between Bart and Hilda ultimately failed because they were both so <strong>uncompromising</strong>, never wanting to change their opinions."}]},{"id":1115,"slug":"unruly","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unruly"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unruly","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of persons) noisy and lacking in restraint or discipline; unwilling to submit to authority"},{"type":"example","content":"Walk in to any preschool and I am sure that you will find an <strong>unruly</strong> and chaotic scene\u2014unless it's nap time."}]},{"id":1122,"slug":"urbane","front":[{"type":"word","content":"urbane"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"urbane","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing a high degree of refinement and the assurance that comes from wide social experience"},{"type":"example","content":"Because of his service as an intelligence officer and his refined tastes, W. Somerset Maugham became the inspiration for the <strong>urbane</strong> and sophisticate spy James Bond."}]},{"id":1124,"slug":"vacuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vacuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vacuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> devoid of intelligence, matter, or significance"},{"type":"example","content":"To the journalist's pointed question, the senator gave a <strong>vacuous</strong> response, mixing a few of his overall campaign slogans with platitudes and completely avoiding the controversial subject of the question."}]},{"id":1138,"slug":"whimsical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"whimsical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"whimsical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> determined by impulse or whim rather than by necessity or reason"},{"type":"example","content":"Adults look to kids and envy their <strong>whimsical</strong> nature at times, wishing that they could act without reason and play without limitation."}]},{"id":399,"slug":"aphoristic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aphoristic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aphoristic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> something that is concise and instructive of a general truth or principle"},{"type":"example","content":"Sometimes I can't stand Nathan because he tries to impress everyone by being <strong>aphoristic</strong>, but he just states the obvious."}]},{"id":466,"slug":"brusquely","front":[{"type":"word","content":"brusquely"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"brusquely","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adverb:</strong> in a blunt, direct manner"},{"type":"example","content":"Not one for social pleasantries, the Chief of Staff would <strong>brusquely</strong> ask his subordinates anything he wanted, even coffee."}]},{"id":474,"slug":"candidness","front":[{"type":"word","content":"candidness"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"candidness","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the quality of being honest and straightforward in attitude and speech"},{"type":"example","content":"Although I was unhappy that the relationship ended, I appreciated her <strong>candidness</strong> about why she was ready to move on from the relationship."}]},{"id":495,"slug":"collusion","front":[{"type":"word","content":"collusion"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"collusion","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> agreement on a secret plot"},{"type":"example","content":"Many have argued that Lee Harvey Oswald, JFK's assassin, was in <strong>collusion</strong> with other criminals; others maintain that Oswald was a lone gunman."}]},{"id":498,"slug":"complacent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"complacent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"complacent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> contented to a fault with oneself or one's actions"},{"type":"example","content":"After the water polo team won their sixth championship, they became <strong>complacent</strong> and didn't even make it to the playoffs the next year."}]},{"id":509,"slug":"connive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"connive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"connive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> taking part in immoral and unethical plots"},{"type":"example","content":"With the help of the prince, the queen <strong>connived</strong> to overthrow the king."}]},{"id":522,"slug":"convoluted","front":[{"type":"word","content":"convoluted"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"convoluted","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> highly complex or intricate"},{"type":"example","content":"Instead of solving the math problem in three simple steps, Kumar used a <strong>convoluted</strong> solution requiring fifteen steps."}]},{"id":534,"slug":"credulity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"credulity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"credulity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> tendency to believe readily"},{"type":"example","content":"Virginia's wide-eyed <strong>credulity</strong> as a five-year old was replaced by suspicion after she learned that Santa Claus didn't really exist."}]},{"id":567,"slug":"derogative","front":[{"type":"word","content":"derogative"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"derogative","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> expressed as worthless or in negative terms"},{"type":"example","content":"Never before have we seen a debate between two political candidates that was so <strong>derogative</strong> and filthy."}]},{"id":572,"slug":"destitute","front":[{"type":"word","content":"destitute"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"destitute","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> poor enough to need help from others"},{"type":"example","content":"Jean Valjean, is at first <strong>destitute</strong>, but through the grace of a priest, he makes something of his life."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> completely wanting or lacking (usually \"destitute of\")"},{"type":"example","content":"Now that the mine is closed, the town is <strong>destitute</strong> of any economic activity."}]},{"id":575,"slug":"devolve","front":[{"type":"word","content":"devolve"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"devolve","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> pass on or delegate to another"},{"type":"example","content":"The company was full of managers known for <strong>devolving</strong> tasks to lower management, but never doing much work themselves."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> grow worse (usually \"devolve into\")"},{"type":"example","content":"The dialogue between the two academics <strong>devolved</strong> into a downright bitter argument."}]},{"id":583,"slug":"diligent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"diligent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"diligent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by care and perseverance in carrying out tasks"},{"type":"example","content":"Michael was a <strong>diligent</strong> gardener, never leaving a leaf on the ground and regularly watering each plant."}]},{"id":586,"slug":"discord","front":[{"type":"word","content":"discord"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"discord","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> lack of agreement or harmony"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite all their talented players, the team was filled with <strong>discord</strong>--some players refused to talk to others--and lost most of their games."}]},{"id":620,"slug":"eke","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eke"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eke","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> To live off meager resources, to scrape by"},{"type":"example","content":"Stranded in a cabin over the winter, Terry was able to <strong>eke</strong> out an existence on canned food."}]},{"id":625,"slug":"elude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"elude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"elude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> escape understanding"},{"type":"example","content":"While some physics concepts might <strong>elude</strong> newbies, with a little grit and a good teacher, almost anyone can develop a deep understanding of the subject."}]},{"id":627,"slug":"embellish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"embellish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"embellish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make more attractive by adding ornament, colour, etc.; make more beautiful"},{"type":"example","content":"McCartney would write relatively straightforward lyrics, and Lennon would <strong>embellish</strong> them with puns and poetic images."}]},{"id":638,"slug":"enmity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enmity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enmity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a state of deep-seated ill-will"},{"type":"example","content":"The rude remark Charles made toward Sarah yesterday was due to his illness, not due to any real <strong>enmity</strong> toward Sarah."}]},{"id":664,"slug":"exasperate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exasperate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exasperate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to irritate intensely"},{"type":"example","content":"As a child, I <strong>exasperated</strong> my mother with strings of never-ending questions."}]},{"id":667,"slug":"exemplify","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exemplify"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exemplify","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be characteristic of"},{"type":"example","content":"Lincoln <strong>exemplified</strong> the best of not only America, but also the potential greatness that exists within each person."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> clarify by giving an example of"},{"type":"example","content":"Please present some case studies that <strong>exemplify</strong> the results that you claim in your paper."}]},{"id":689,"slug":"foible","front":[{"type":"word","content":"foible"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"foible","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individual"},{"type":"example","content":"When their new roommate sat staring at an oak tree for an hour, Marcia thought it indicated a mental problem, but Jeff assured her it was a harmless <strong>foible</strong>."}]},{"id":712,"slug":"goad","front":[{"type":"word","content":"goad"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"goad","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> urge on with unpleasant comments"},{"type":"example","content":"Doug did not want to enter the race, but Jim, through a steady stream of taunts, <strong>goaded</strong> him into signing up for it."}]},{"id":749,"slug":"impending","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impending"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impending","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> close in time; about to occur"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>impending</strong> doom of our world has been a discussed and debated for 2000 years\u2014maybe even longer."}]},{"id":758,"slug":"impregnable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impregnable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impregnable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> immune to attack; incapable of being tampered with"},{"type":"example","content":"As a child, Amy would build pillow castles and pretend they were <strong>impregnable</strong> fortresses."}]},{"id":806,"slug":"irk","front":[{"type":"word","content":"irk"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"irk","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> irritate or vex"},{"type":"example","content":"My little sister has a way of <strong>irking</strong> and annoying me like no other person."}]},{"id":826,"slug":"leery","front":[{"type":"word","content":"leery"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"leery","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> openly distrustful and unwilling to confide"},{"type":"example","content":"Without checking his references and talking  to previous employers, I am <strong>leery</strong> of hiring the candidate."}]},{"id":838,"slug":"malevolent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malevolent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malevolent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> wishing or appearing to wish evil to others; arising from intense ill will or hatred"},{"type":"example","content":"Villains are known for their <strong>malevolent</strong> nature, oftentimes inflicting cruelty on others just for enjoyment."}]},{"id":846,"slug":"maxim","front":[{"type":"word","content":"maxim"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"maxim","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a short saying expressing a general truth"},{"type":"example","content":"Johnson initially suggests that the secret to business can be summarized in a single <strong>maxim</strong> but then requires a 300-page book to explain exactly what he means."}]},{"id":883,"slug":"obstinate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obstinate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obstinate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> resistant to guidance or discipline; stubbornly persistent"},{"type":"example","content":"The coach suggested improvements Sarah might make on the balance beam, but she remained <strong>obstinate</strong>, unwilling to modify any of the habits that made her successful in the past."}]},{"id":903,"slug":"pastoral","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pastoral"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pastoral","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> relating to the countryside in a pleasant sense"},{"type":"example","content":"Those who imagine America's countryside as a <strong>pastoral</strong> region are often disappointed to learn that much of rural U.S. is filled with cornfields extending as far as the eye can see."}]},{"id":909,"slug":"peevish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"peevish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"peevish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> easily irritated or annoyed"},{"type":"example","content":"Our office manager is <strong>peevish</strong>, so the rest of us tip-toe around him, hoping not to set off another one of his fits."}]},{"id":921,"slug":"perturb","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perturb"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perturb","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> disturb in mind or cause to be worried or alarmed"},{"type":"example","content":"Now that Henry is recovering from a major illnesses, he no longer lets the little trivialities, such as late mail, <strong>perturb</strong> him."}]},{"id":930,"slug":"placid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"placid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"placid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not easily irritated"},{"type":"example","content":"Doug is normally <strong>placid</strong>, so we were all shocked to see him yelling at the television when the Mets lost the game."}]},{"id":933,"slug":"ploy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ploy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ploy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a clever plan to turn a situation to one's advantage"},{"type":"example","content":"Dennis arranged an elaborate <strong>ploy</strong>, involving 14 different people lying for him in different situations, so that it could appear that he was meeting Mary completely by chance at the wedding reception."}]},{"id":950,"slug":"presumption","front":[{"type":"word","content":"presumption"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"presumption","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an assumption that is taken for granted"},{"type":"example","content":"When Mr. Baker found out the family car was gone, he acted under the <strong>presumption</strong> that his rebellious son had taken the car, calling his son's phone and yelling at him; only later did Mr. Baker realize that Mrs. Baker had simply gone out to get her nails done."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to"},{"type":"example","content":"The new neighbor quickly gained a reputation for her <strong>presumption</strong>; she had invited herself to several neighbors' homes, often stopping over at inopportune times and asking for a drink."}]},{"id":979,"slug":"quip","front":[{"type":"word","content":"quip"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"quip","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a witty saying or remark"},{"type":"example","content":"In one of the most famous <strong>quips</strong> about classical music, Mark Twain said: \"Wagner's music is better than it sounds.\""},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make a witty remark, to say in jest"},{"type":"example","content":"When an old English teacher criticized Churchill for ending a sentence with a preposition, he <strong>quipped</strong>, \"This is the kind of criticism up with which we will not put!\"  "}]},{"id":988,"slug":"rash","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rash"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rash","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by defiant disregard for danger or consequences; imprudently incurring risk"},{"type":"example","content":"Although Bruce was able to make the delivery in time with a nighttime motorcycle ride in the rain, Susan criticized his actions as <strong>rash</strong>."}]},{"id":1006,"slug":"reservation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reservation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reservation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an unstated doubt that prevents you from accepting something wholeheartedly"},{"type":"example","content":"I was initially excited by the idea of a trip to Washington, D.C.  but now that I have read about the high crime statistics there, I have some <strong>reservations</strong>."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1013,"slug":"retract","front":[{"type":"word","content":"retract"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"retract","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> pull inward or towards a center; formally reject or disavow a formerly held belief, usually under pressure"},{"type":"example","content":"Email is wonderfully efficient, but once something awkward or damaging has been sent, there is no way to <strong>retract</strong> it."}]},{"id":1024,"slug":"savvy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"savvy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"savvy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a perceptive understanding"},{"type":"example","content":"Although a great CEO, he did not have the political <strong>savvy</strong> to win the election."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> get the meaning of something"},{"type":"example","content":"The student savvies the meaning of astrophysics with little effort."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> well-informed or perceptive"},{"type":"example","content":"With his <strong>savvy</strong> business partner, the company was able to turn a profit within a year."}]},{"id":1030,"slug":"serene","front":[{"type":"word","content":"serene"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"serene","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> calm and peaceful"},{"type":"example","content":"I'd never seen him so <strong>serene</strong>; usually, he was a knot of stress and anxiety from hours of trading on the stock exchange."}]},{"id":1034,"slug":"smug","front":[{"type":"word","content":"smug"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"smug","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by excessive complacency or self-satisfaction"},{"type":"example","content":"When Phil was dating the model, he had a <strong>smug</strong> attitude that annoyed his buddies."}]},{"id":1048,"slug":"squander","front":[{"type":"word","content":"squander"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"squander","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> spend thoughtlessly; waste time, money, or an opportunity"},{"type":"example","content":"Fearing his money would be <strong>squandered</strong> by his family, he gave all of it to charity when he died."}]},{"id":1053,"slug":"steadfast","front":[{"type":"word","content":"steadfast"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"steadfast","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakable"},{"type":"example","content":"A good captain needs to be <strong>steadfast</strong>, continuing to hold the wheel and stay the course even during the most violent storm."}]},{"id":1070,"slug":"tact","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tact"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tact","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> consideration in dealing with others and avoiding giving offense"},{"type":"example","content":"In a tremendous display of <strong>tact</strong>, Shelly was able to maintain a strong friendship with Marcia, even though Marcia's husband, Frank, confessed to finding Shelley more attractive than Marcia."}]},{"id":1072,"slug":"tarnish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tarnish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tarnish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphorically"},{"type":"example","content":"Pete Rose was one of the best baseball players of his generation, but his involvement with gambling on baseball games has <strong>tarnished</strong> his image in the eyes of many."}]},{"id":1074,"slug":"taxing","front":[{"type":"word","content":"taxing"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"taxing","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> use to the limit; exhaust"},{"type":"example","content":"The hike to the summit of Mt. Whitney was so <strong>taxing</strong> that I could barely speak or stand up."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1085,"slug":"tout","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tout"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tout","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> advertize in strongly positive terms; show off"},{"type":"example","content":"At the conference, the CEO <strong>touted</strong> the extraordinary success of his company's Research & Development division."}]},{"id":1090,"slug":"travail","front":[{"type":"word","content":"travail"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"travail","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> use of physical or mental energy; hard work; agony or anguish"},{"type":"example","content":"While they experienced nothing but <strong>travails</strong> in refinishing the kitchen, they completed the master bedroom in less than a weekend."}]},{"id":1112,"slug":"unprecedented","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unprecedented"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unprecedented","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having never been done or known before; novel"},{"type":"example","content":"When America first created its national parks, the idea of setting aside the most beautiful land in a country was <strong>unprecedented</strong> in the history of mankind."}]},{"id":1117,"slug":"unseemly","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unseemly"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unseemly","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite society"},{"type":"example","content":"He acted in an <strong>unseemly</strong> manner, insulting the hostess and then speaking ill of her deceased husband."}]},{"id":387,"slug":"analogous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"analogous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"analogous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> similar in some respects but otherwise different"},{"type":"example","content":"In many ways, the Internet's transformative effect on society has been <strong>analogous</strong> to that of the printing press."}]},{"id":391,"slug":"antedate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"antedate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"antedate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> precede in time"},{"type":"example","content":"Harry was so unknowledgable that he was unaware the Egyptian pharaohs <strong>antedate</strong>d the American Revolution."}]},{"id":420,"slug":"ascribe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ascribe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ascribe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> attribute or credit to"},{"type":"example","content":"History <strong>ascribes</strong> The Odyssey and The Iliad to Homer, but scholars now debate whether he was a historical figure or a fictitious name."}]},{"id":435,"slug":"avert","front":[{"type":"word","content":"avert"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"avert","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> turn away"},{"type":"example","content":"Afraid to see the aftermath of the car crash, I <strong>averted</strong> my eyes as we drove by."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> ward off or prevent"},{"type":"example","content":"The struggling video game company put all of its finances into one final, desperate project to <strong>avert</strong> bankruptcy."}]},{"id":444,"slug":"begrudge","front":[{"type":"word","content":"begrudge"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"begrudge","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to envy someone for possessing or enjoying something"},{"type":"example","content":"Sitting all alone in his room, Harvey <strong>begrudged</strong> the happiness of the other children playing outside his window."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to give reluctantly"},{"type":"example","content":"We never <strong>begrudge</strong> money spent on ourselves."}]},{"id":445,"slug":"behoove","front":[{"type":"word","content":"behoove"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"behoove","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to be one's duty or obligation"},{"type":"example","content":"The teacher looked down at the student and said, \"It would <strong>behoove</strong> you to be in class on time and complete your homework, so that you don't repeat freshman English for a third straight year.\""}]},{"id":446,"slug":"belittle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"belittle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"belittle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> lessen the importance, dignity, or reputation of"},{"type":"example","content":"A good teacher will never <strong>belittle</strong> his students, but will instead empower them."}]},{"id":452,"slug":"besmirch","front":[{"type":"word","content":"besmirch"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"besmirch","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> damage the good name and reputation of someone"},{"type":"example","content":"The prince's distasteful choice of words <strong>besmirched</strong> not only his own name, but the reputation of the entire royal family."}]},{"id":471,"slug":"buttress","front":[{"type":"word","content":"buttress"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"buttress","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make stronger or defensible"},{"type":"example","content":"China's economy has been <strong>buttressed</strong> by a global demand for the electronic parts the country manufactures."}]},{"id":479,"slug":"cavalier","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cavalier"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cavalier","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> given to haughty disregard of others"},{"type":"example","content":"Percy dismissed the issue with a <strong>cavalier</strong> wave of his hand."}]},{"id":482,"slug":"cerebral","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cerebral"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cerebral","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> involving intelligence rather than emotions or instinct"},{"type":"example","content":"A <strong>cerebral</strong> analysis of most pop music finds it to be simple and childish, but that ignores the point--the music's effect on the listener."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":492,"slug":"clemency","front":[{"type":"word","content":"clemency"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"clemency","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> leniency and compassion shown toward offenders by a person or agency charged with administering justice"},{"type":"example","content":"In the final moments of the trial, during his closing speech, Phillips was nearly begging the judge for <strong>clemency</strong>."}]},{"id":493,"slug":"coalesce","front":[{"type":"word","content":"coalesce"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"coalesce","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> fuse or cause to grow together"},{"type":"example","content":"Over time, the various tribes <strong>coalesced</strong> into a single common culture with one universal language."}]},{"id":494,"slug":"cohesive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cohesive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cohesive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> well integrated, forming a united whole"},{"type":"example","content":"A well-written, <strong>cohesive</strong> essay will keep on topic at all times, never losing sight of the main argument."}]},{"id":510,"slug":"consecrate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"consecrate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"consecrate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make holy or set apart for a high purpose"},{"type":"example","content":"At the church of Notre Dame in France, the new High Altar was <strong>consecrated</strong> in 1182."}]},{"id":520,"slug":"conundrum","front":[{"type":"word","content":"conundrum"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"conundrum","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a difficult problem"},{"type":"example","content":"Computers have helped solve some of the mathematical <strong>conundrums</strong> which have puzzled man for many centuries."}]},{"id":553,"slug":"delegate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"delegate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"delegate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> give an assignment to (a person)"},{"type":"example","content":"Since the senior manager had to go on many international business trips, she was forced to <strong>delegate</strong> many of her responsibilities to two lower-level managers."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":563,"slug":"deride","front":[{"type":"word","content":"deride"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"deride","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> treat or speak of with contempt"},{"type":"example","content":"The nun <strong>derided</strong> the students for trying to sneak insects and worms into the classroom."}]},{"id":602,"slug":"docile","front":[{"type":"word","content":"docile"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"docile","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> easily handled or managed; willing to be taught or led or supervised or directed"},{"type":"example","content":"Barnyard animals are considerably more <strong>docile</strong> than the wild animals."}]},{"id":611,"slug":"eccentric","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eccentric"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eccentric","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> highly unconventional or unusual (usually describes a person)"},{"type":"example","content":"Mozart was well-known for his <strong>eccentricities</strong>, often speaking words backward to confuse those around him."}]},{"id":632,"slug":"emulate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"emulate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"emulate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> strive to equal or match, especially by imitating; compete with successfully"},{"type":"example","content":"To really become fluent in a new language, <strong>emulate</strong> the speech patterns of people who speak the language."}]},{"id":660,"slug":"evenhanded","front":[{"type":"word","content":"evenhanded"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"evenhanded","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without partiality"},{"type":"example","content":"Teachers often have trouble being <strong>evenhanded</strong> to all of their varied students."}]},{"id":677,"slug":"fawn","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fawn"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fawn","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> try to gain favor by extreme flattery"},{"type":"example","content":"The media <strong>fawned</strong> over the handsome new CEO, praising his impeccable sense of style instead of asking more pointed questions."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":681,"slug":"finagle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"finagle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"finagle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> achieve something by means of trickery or devious methods"},{"type":"example","content":"Steven was able to <strong>finagle</strong> one of the last seats on the train by convincing the conductor that his torn stub was actually a valid ticket."}]},{"id":691,"slug":"foolhardy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"foolhardy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"foolhardy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by defiant disregard for danger or consequences"},{"type":"example","content":"The police regularly face dangerous situations, so for a police officer not to wear his bullet-proof vest is <strong>foolhardy</strong>."}]},{"id":694,"slug":"forthright","front":[{"type":"word","content":"forthright"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"forthright","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by directness in manner or speech; without subtlety or evasion"},{"type":"example","content":"I did not expect the insurance agent to give us any straight answers, but I was pleasantly surprised by how <strong>forthright</strong> he was."}]},{"id":709,"slug":"glean","front":[{"type":"word","content":"glean"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"glean","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> collect information bit by bit"},{"type":"example","content":"Herb has given us no formal statement about his background, but from various hints, I have <strong>gleaned</strong> that he grew up in difficult circumstances."}]},{"id":737,"slug":"humdrum","front":[{"type":"word","content":"humdrum"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"humdrum","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dull and lacking excitement"},{"type":"example","content":"Having grown up in a <strong>humdrum</strong> suburb, Jacob relished life in New York City after moving."}]},{"id":756,"slug":"implicate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"implicate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"implicate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> convey a meaning; imply"},{"type":"example","content":"By saying that some of the guests were uncomfortable, the manager <strong>implicated</strong> to the hotel staff that it needed to be more diligent."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to indicate in wrongdoing, usually a crime"},{"type":"example","content":"The crime boss was <strong>implicated</strong> for a long list of crimes, ranging from murder to disturbing the peace."}]},{"id":767,"slug":"incense","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incense"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incense","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make furious"},{"type":"example","content":"When Herb bought football tickets for a game on the day of their wedding anniversary, Jill was <strong>incensed</strong>."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":775,"slug":"incumbent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incumbent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incumbent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> necessary (for someone) as a duty or responsibility"},{"type":"example","content":"Middle managers at times make important decisions, but real responsibility for the financial well-being of the corporation is ultimately <strong>incumbent</strong> on the CEO."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":778,"slug":"industrious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"industrious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"industrious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by hard work and perseverance"},{"type":"example","content":"Pete was an <strong>industrious</strong> student, completing every assignment thoroughly and on time."}]},{"id":792,"slug":"insipid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"insipid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"insipid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dull and uninteresting"},{"type":"example","content":"The movie director was known for hiring beautiful actors in order to deflect attention away from the <strong>insipid</strong> scripts he would typically use."}]},{"id":795,"slug":"intermittent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"intermittent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"intermittent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> stopping and starting at irregular intervals"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>intermittent</strong> thunder continued and the night was punctuated by cracks of lightning\u2014a surreal sleepless night."}]},{"id":805,"slug":"irascible","front":[{"type":"word","content":"irascible"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"irascible","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> quickly aroused to anger"},{"type":"example","content":"If Arthur's dog is not fed adequately, he becomes highly <strong>irascible</strong>, even growling at his own shadow."}]},{"id":827,"slug":"lethargic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lethargic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lethargic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking energy"},{"type":"example","content":"Nothing can make a person more <strong>lethargic</strong> than a big turkey dinner."}]},{"id":848,"slug":"melancholy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"melancholy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"melancholy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a deep, long-lasting sadness"},{"type":"example","content":"Hamlet is a figure of tremendous <strong>melancholy</strong>: he doesn't have a truly cheerful scene throughout the entire play."}]},{"id":926,"slug":"piquant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"piquant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"piquant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having an agreeably pungent taste"},{"type":"example","content":"The chef, with a mere flick of the salt shaker, turned the bland tomato soup into a <strong>piquant</strong> meal."}]},{"id":941,"slug":"precarious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"precarious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"precarious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> fraught with danger"},{"type":"example","content":"People smoke to relax and forget their cares, but ironically, in terms of health risks, smoking is far more <strong>precarious</strong> than either mountain-climbing or skydiving."}]},{"id":947,"slug":"preempt","front":[{"type":"word","content":"preempt"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"preempt","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> take the place of or have precedence over"},{"type":"example","content":"A governmental warning about an imminent terrorist attack would <strong>preempt</strong> ordinary network programming on television."}]},{"id":951,"slug":"presumptuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"presumptuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"presumptuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> excessively forward"},{"type":"example","content":"Many felt that Barney was <strong>presumptuous</strong> in moving into the large office before the management even made any official announcement of his promotion."}]},{"id":952,"slug":"prevail","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prevail"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prevail","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be widespread in a particular area at a particular time; be current:"},{"type":"example","content":"During the labor negotiations, an air of hostility <strong>prevailed</strong> in the office."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> prove superior"},{"type":"example","content":"Before the cricket match, Australia was heavily favored, but India <strong>prevailed</strong>."}]},{"id":958,"slug":"profusion","front":[{"type":"word","content":"profusion"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"profusion","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the property of being extremely abundant"},{"type":"example","content":"When Maria reported that she had been visited by Jesus Christ and had proof, a <strong>profusion</strong> of reporters and journalists descended on the town."}]},{"id":984,"slug":"rakish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rakish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rakish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by a carefree unconventionality or disreputableness"},{"type":"example","content":"As soon as he arrived in the city, the <strong>rakish</strong> young man bought some drugs and headed straight for the seedy parts of town."}]},{"id":997,"slug":"redress","front":[{"type":"word","content":"redress"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"redress","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an act of making something right"},{"type":"example","content":"Barry's <strong>redress</strong> for forgetting his wife's birthday two years in a row was surprising her with a trip to Tahiti."}]},{"id":1016,"slug":"rile","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rile"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rile","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritations"},{"type":"example","content":"Dan is usually calm and balanced, but it takes only one intense glare from Sabrina to <strong>rile</strong> him."}]},{"id":1095,"slug":"tribulation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tribulation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tribulation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something, especially an event, that causes difficulty and suffering"},{"type":"example","content":"As of 2013, nearly 1.5 million Syrians have fled their country hoping to escape the <strong>tribulations</strong> of a civil war tearing their country to pieces."}]},{"id":1105,"slug":"uncanny","front":[{"type":"word","content":"uncanny"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"uncanny","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> suggesting the operation of supernatural influences; surpassing the ordinary or normal"},{"type":"example","content":"Reggie has an <strong>uncanny</strong> ability to connect with animals: feral cats will readily approach him, and sometimes even wild birds will land on his finger."}]},{"id":1128,"slug":"veneer","front":[{"type":"word","content":"veneer"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"veneer","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> covering consisting of a thin superficial layer that hides the underlying substance"},{"type":"example","content":"Mark Twain referred to the Victorian Period in America as the \"Gilded Age\", implying the ample moral corruption that lay beneath a mere <strong>veneer</strong> of respectability."}]},{"id":1137,"slug":"wanton","front":[{"type":"word","content":"wanton"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"wanton","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without check or limitation; showing no moral restraints to one's anger, desire, or appetites"},{"type":"example","content":"Due to <strong>wanton</strong> behavior and crude language, the drunk man was thrown out of the bar and asked to never return."}]},{"id":372,"slug":"abysmal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"abysmal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"abysmal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> extremely bad"},{"type":"example","content":"Coach Ramsey took his newest player off the field after watching a few painful minutes of her <strong>abysmal</strong> performance."}]},{"id":385,"slug":"amply","front":[{"type":"word","content":"amply"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"amply","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adverb:</strong> more than is adequate"},{"type":"example","content":"The boat was <strong>amply</strong> supplied for its year at sea\u2014no man would go hungry or thirsty."}]},{"id":394,"slug":"antiquated","front":[{"type":"word","content":"antiquated"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"antiquated","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> old-fashioned; belonging to an earlier period in time"},{"type":"example","content":"Aunt Betty had <strong>antiquated</strong> notions about marriage, believing that a man should court a woman for at least a year before receiving a kiss."}]},{"id":398,"slug":"aphorism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aphorism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aphorism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a short instructive saying about a general truth"},{"type":"example","content":"Nietzsche was known for using <strong>aphorisms</strong>, sometimes encapsulating a complex philosophical thought in a mere sentence."}]},{"id":438,"slug":"balk","front":[{"type":"word","content":"balk"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"balk","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> refuse to comply"},{"type":"example","content":"The students were willing to clean up the broken glass, but when the teacher asked them to mop the entire floor, they <strong>balked</strong>, citing reasons why they needed to leave."}]},{"id":451,"slug":"besiege","front":[{"type":"word","content":"besiege"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"besiege","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> harass, as with questions or requests; cause to feel distressed or worried"},{"type":"example","content":"After discovering a priceless artifact in her backyard, Jane was <strong>besieged</strong> by phone calls, emails, and reporters all trying to buy, hold or see the rare piece of history."}]},{"id":457,"slug":"boorish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"boorish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"boorish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> ill-mannered and coarse or contemptible in behavior or appearance"},{"type":"example","content":"Bukowski was known for being a <strong>boorish</strong> drunk and alienating close friends and family."}]},{"id":477,"slug":"carping","front":[{"type":"word","content":"carping"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"carping","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> persistently petty and unjustified criticism"},{"type":"example","content":"What seemed like incessant nagging and <strong>carping</strong> about my behavior from my mother turned out to be wise and useful advice that has served me well."}]},{"id":484,"slug":"champion","front":[{"type":"word","content":"champion"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"champion","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to fight for a cause"},{"type":"example","content":"Martin Luther King Jr. <strong>championed</strong> civil rights fiercely throughout his short life."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":488,"slug":"chivalrous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chivalrous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chivalrous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being attentive to women like an ideal knight"},{"type":"example","content":"Medieval tales are full of stories of <strong>chivalry</strong>, in which a young knight must commit deeds of heroism to win the hand of a fair maiden."}]},{"id":496,"slug":"colossal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"colossal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"colossal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> so great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe"},{"type":"example","content":"Few appreciate the <strong>colossal</strong> scale of the sun: if hollow, it could contain a million Earths."}]},{"id":500,"slug":"complementary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"complementary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"complementary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> enhancing each other's qualities (for two things or more)."},{"type":"example","content":"The head waiter was careful to tell the amateur diners that red wine was <strong>complementary</strong> with beef, each bringing out subtle taste notes in the other."}]},{"id":502,"slug":"compound","front":[{"type":"word","content":"compound"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"compound","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make more intense, stronger, or more marked"},{"type":"example","content":"Her headache was <strong>compounded</strong> by the construction crew outside, which had six jackhammers going at the same time."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":513,"slug":"constraint","front":[{"type":"word","content":"constraint"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"constraint","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something that limits or restricts"},{"type":"example","content":"We don't have many resources, so we'll have to work with some very tight <strong>constraints</strong>."}]},{"id":521,"slug":"convivial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"convivial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"convivial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> describing a lively atmosphere"},{"type":"example","content":"The wedding reception was <strong>convivial</strong>; friends who hadn't seen each other for ages drank and ate together before heading to the dance floor."}]},{"id":526,"slug":"cosmopolitan","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cosmopolitan"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cosmopolitan","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> comprising many cultures; global in reach and outlook"},{"type":"example","content":"There are few cities in the world as diverse and <strong>cosmopolitan</strong> as New York."}]},{"id":533,"slug":"creditable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"creditable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"creditable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> deserving of praise but not that amazing"},{"type":"example","content":"Critics agreed the movie was <strong>creditable</strong>, but few gave it more than three out of five stars."}]},{"id":540,"slug":"cumbersome","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cumbersome"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cumbersome","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> difficult to handle or use especially because of size or weight"},{"type":"example","content":"Only ten years ago, being an avid reader and a traveler meant carrying a <strong>cumbersome</strong> backpack stuffed with books--these days we need only an e-reader."}]},{"id":544,"slug":"debunk","front":[{"type":"word","content":"debunk"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"debunk","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> expose as false ideas and claims, especially while ridiculing"},{"type":"example","content":"Richard Dawkins tries to <strong>debunk</strong> religious belief, but his ridicule tends to push people away from his points rather than convince them."}]},{"id":545,"slug":"decimation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"decimation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"decimation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> destroying or killing a large part of the population"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>decimation</strong> after atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki is incomprehensible."}]},{"id":555,"slug":"deliberate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"deliberate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"deliberate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> think about carefully; weigh the pros and cons of an issue"},{"type":"example","content":"Emergency situations such as this call for immediate action and leave no room to <strong>deliberate</strong> over options."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":578,"slug":"differentiate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"differentiate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"differentiate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait (sometimes in positive sense)"},{"type":"example","content":"Mozart's long melodic lines <strong>differentiate</strong> his compositions from other works of late 18th century music."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> evolve so as to lead to a new species or develop in a way most suited to the environment"},{"type":"example","content":"Animals on Madagascar <strong>differentiated</strong> from other similar animal species due to many years of isolation on the island."}]},{"id":580,"slug":"dilapidated","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dilapidated"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dilapidated","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> in terrible condition"},{"type":"example","content":"The main house has been restored but the gazebo is still <strong>dilapidated</strong> and unuseable."}]},{"id":587,"slug":"discreet","front":[{"type":"word","content":"discreet"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"discreet","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> careful to protect one's speech or actions in order to avoid offense or draw attention"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor thought that he was <strong>discreet</strong>, subtly wiping the stain off of his shirt, but as soon as he stepped off the podium a heckler in the audience burst out, \"You missed a spot\".\r\n "}]},{"id":596,"slug":"dispatch","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dispatch"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dispatch","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the property of being prompt and efficient"},{"type":"example","content":"She finished her thesis with <strong>dispatch</strong>, amazing her advisors who couldn't believe she had written 60 scholarly pages so quickly."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> dispose of rapidly and without delay and efficiently"},{"type":"example","content":"As soon as the angry peasants stormed the castle, they caught the king and swiftly <strong>dispatched</strong> him."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":643,"slug":"enumerate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enumerate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enumerate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> determine the number or amount of"},{"type":"example","content":"The survey <strong>enumerates</strong> the number of happy workers and the number of unhappy workers."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> specify individually, one by one"},{"type":"example","content":"I sat and listened as she <strong>enumerated</strong> all of the things she did not like about the past three months."}]},{"id":659,"slug":"evasive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"evasive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"evasive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> avoiding or escaping from difficulty or danger or commitment"},{"type":"example","content":"His responses were clearly <strong>evasive</strong>; he obviously did not want to take on any responsibility or any new work."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> deliberately vague or ambiguous"},{"type":"example","content":"Every time I call the bank, I receive the same <strong>evasive</strong> answers about our mortgage and never get a clear response."}]},{"id":665,"slug":"excruciating","front":[{"type":"word","content":"excruciating"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"excruciating","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> extremely painful"},{"type":"example","content":"After the boulder rolled a couple of feet, pinning my friend's arm, he experienced <strong>excruciating</strong> pain."}]},{"id":699,"slug":"futile","front":[{"type":"word","content":"futile"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"futile","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> producing no result or effect; unproductive of success"},{"type":"example","content":"I thought I could repair the car myself, but after two days of work with no success, I have to admit that my efforts were <strong>futile</strong>."}]},{"id":725,"slug":"hamper","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hamper"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hamper","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> prevent the progress or free movement of"},{"type":"example","content":"As the rain water began to collect in pools on the highway, it began to <strong>hamper</strong> the flow of traffic."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":766,"slug":"inarticulate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inarticulate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inarticulate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without or deprived of the use of speech or words"},{"type":"example","content":"Although a brilliant economist, Professor Black was completely <strong>inarticulate</strong>, a terrible lecturer."}]},{"id":789,"slug":"inkling","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inkling"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inkling","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a slight suggestion or vague understanding"},{"type":"example","content":"Lynne speaks four Romance languages, but she doesn't have an <strong>inkling</strong> about how East Asian languages are structured."}]},{"id":817,"slug":"laborious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"laborious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"laborious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by effort to the point of exhaustion; especially physical effort"},{"type":"example","content":"The most <strong>laborious</strong> job I've had was working 20 hours a day as a fisherman in King Salmon, Alaska."}]},{"id":841,"slug":"malodorous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"malodorous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"malodorous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having an unpleasant smell"},{"type":"example","content":"Some thermally active fountains spew sulfur fumes--the air around them is sometimes so <strong>malodorous</strong> that many have to plug their noses."}]},{"id":855,"slug":"miscreant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"miscreant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"miscreant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who breaks the law"},{"type":"example","content":"\"Come back you <strong>miscreant</strong>!\" yelled the woman who just had her purse stolen."}]},{"id":856,"slug":"misogynist","front":[{"type":"word","content":"misogynist"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"misogynist","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who dislikes women in particular"},{"type":"example","content":"Many have accused Hemingway of being a quiet <strong>misogynist</strong>, but recently unearthed letters argue against this belief."}]},{"id":864,"slug":"morph","front":[{"type":"word","content":"morph"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"morph","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> To undergo dramatic change in a seamless and barely noticeable fashion."},{"type":"example","content":"The earnestness of the daytime talk shows of the 1970's has <strong>morphed</strong> into something far more sensational and vulgar: today guests actually stand up and threaten to take swings at one another."}]},{"id":879,"slug":"obliging","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obliging"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obliging","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing a cheerful willingness to do favors for others"},{"type":"example","content":"Even after all his success, I found him to be accommodating and <strong>obliging</strong>, sharing with me his \"secret tips\" on how to gain wealth and make friends."}]},{"id":900,"slug":"paradoxical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"paradoxical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"paradoxical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> seemingly contradictory but nonetheless possibly true"},{"type":"example","content":"That light could be both a particle and a wave seems <strong>paradoxical</strong>, but nonetheless, it is true."}]},{"id":918,"slug":"perquisite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perquisite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perquisite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right)"},{"type":"example","content":"Even as the dishwasher at the French restaurant, Josh quickly learned that he had the <strong>perquisite</strong> of being able to eat terrific food for half the price diners would pay."}]},{"id":969,"slug":"provisional","front":[{"type":"word","content":"provisional"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"provisional","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> under terms not final or fully worked out or agreed upon"},{"type":"example","content":"Until the corporate office hands down a definitive decision on use of the extra offices, we will share their use in a <strong>provisional</strong> arrangement."}]},{"id":976,"slug":"qualm","front":[{"type":"word","content":"qualm"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"qualm","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> uneasiness about the fitness of an action"},{"type":"example","content":"While he could articulate no clear reason why Harkner's plan would fail, he nevertheless felt <strong>qualms</strong> about committing any resources to it."}]},{"id":1000,"slug":"relegate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"relegate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"relegate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> assign to a lower position"},{"type":"example","content":"When Dexter was unable to fulfill his basic duties, instead of firing him, the boss <strong>relegated</strong> him to kitchen cleanup."}]},{"id":1007,"slug":"resignation","front":[{"type":"word","content":"resignation"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"resignation","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the acceptance of something unpleasant that can't be avoided"},{"type":"example","content":"Since Jack could not think of a convincing reason why he had to miss the seminar, he attended it with a sense of <strong>resignation</strong>."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1036,"slug":"snub","front":[{"type":"word","content":"snub"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"snub","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> refuse to acknowledge; reject outright and bluntly"},{"type":"example","content":"Wheeler was completely qualified for the committee, but the board <strong>snubbed</strong> him, choosing an obviously lesser qualified candidate instead."}]},{"id":1041,"slug":"sordid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sordid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sordid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> involving ignoble actions and motives; arousing moral distaste and contempt; foul and run-down and repulsive"},{"type":"example","content":"The nightly news simply announced that the senator had had an affair, but the tabloid published all the <strong>sordid</strong> details of the interaction."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1050,"slug":"staid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"staid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"staid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by dignity and propriety"},{"type":"example","content":"Frank came from a <strong>staid</strong> environment, so he was shocked that his college roommate sold narcotics."}]},{"id":1057,"slug":"stymie","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stymie"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stymie","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of"},{"type":"example","content":"The engineers found their plans <strong>stymied</strong> at every turn and were ultimately able to make almost no progress on the project."}]},{"id":1125,"slug":"vanquish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vanquish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vanquish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> come out better in a competition, race, or conflict"},{"type":"example","content":"For years, Argentina would dominate in World Cup qualifying matches, only to be <strong>vanquished</strong> by one of the European countries during the late stages of the tournament."}]},{"id":1131,"slug":"vie","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vie"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vie","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> compete for something"},{"type":"example","content":"While the other teams in the division actively <strong>vie</strong> for the championship, this team seems content simply to go through the motions of playing."}]},{"id":1321,"slug":"wordgame-score-guarantee","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Score Guarantee"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Score Guarantee","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> WordGame guarantees a 5 point increase in your score if you've taken the GRE before.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"With WordGame, Josh was able to increase his GRE score by 7 points and didn't need to take advantage of the <strong>WordGame score guarantee</strong>."}]},{"id":20,"slug":"candid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"candid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"candid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> straightforward and honest"},{"type":"example","content":"Even with a perfect stranger, Charles was always <strong>candid</strong> and would rarely hold anything back."}]},{"id":21,"slug":"erratic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"erratic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"erratic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unpredictable; strange and unconventional"},{"type":"example","content":"It came as no surprise to pundits that the President\u2019s attempt at re-election floundered; even during his term, support for his policies was <strong>erratic</strong>, with an approval rating jumping anywhere from 30 to 60 percent. "}]},{"id":22,"slug":"bleak","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bleak"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bleak","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having a depressing or gloomy outlook"},{"type":"example","content":"Unremitting overcast skies tend to lead people to create <strong>bleak</strong> literature and lugubrious music \u2014 compare England\u2019s band Radiohead to any band from Southern California. "}]},{"id":32,"slug":"retiring","front":[{"type":"word","content":"retiring"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"retiring","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be shy, and to be inclined to retract from company"},{"type":"example","content":"Nelson was always the first to leave soirees\u2014rather than mill about with \u201cfashionable\u201d folk, he was <strong>retiring</strong>, and preferred the solitude of his garret."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":39,"slug":"tender","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tender"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tender","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> offer up something formally"},{"type":"example","content":"The government was loath to <strong>tender</strong> more money in the fear that it might set off inflation. "},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":42,"slug":"telling","front":[{"type":"word","content":"telling"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"telling","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> significant and revealing of another factor"},{"type":"example","content":"Her unbecoming dress was very <strong>telling</strong> when it came to her sense of fashion."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":48,"slug":"variance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"variance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"variance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the quality of being different"},{"type":"example","content":"The cynic quipped, \u201cThere is not much <strong>variance</strong> in politicians; they all seem to lie\u201d."}]},{"id":50,"slug":"demure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"demure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"demure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be modest and shy"},{"type":"example","content":"The portrait of her in a simple white blouse was sweet and <strong>demure</strong>."}]},{"id":54,"slug":"profuse","front":[{"type":"word","content":"profuse"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"profuse","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> plentiful; pouring out in abundance"},{"type":"example","content":"During mile 20 of the Hawaii Marathon, Dwayne was sweating so <strong>profusely</strong> that he stopped to take off \r\nhis shirt, and ran the remaining six miles wearing nothing more than skimpy shorts."}]},{"id":66,"slug":"inundate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inundate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inundate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to flood or overwhelm"},{"type":"example","content":"The newsroom was <strong>inundated</strong> with false reports that only made it more difficult for the newscasters to provide an objective account of the bank robbery."}]},{"id":86,"slug":"miser","front":[{"type":"word","content":"miser"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"miser","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who doesn't like to spend money (because they are greedy)"},{"type":"example","content":"Monte was no <strong>miser</strong>, but was simply frugal, wisely spending the little that he earned."}]},{"id":95,"slug":"indigenous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"indigenous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"indigenous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> originating in a certain area"},{"type":"example","content":"The plants and animals <strong>indigenous</strong> to Australia are notably different from those <strong>indigenous</strong> to the U.S\u2014one look at a duckbill platypus and you know you\u2019re not dealing with an opossum."}]},{"id":96,"slug":"indignant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"indignant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"indignant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> feeling anger over a perceived injustice"},{"type":"example","content":"When the cyclist swerved into traffic, it forced the driver to brake and elicited an <strong>indignant</strong> shout of \"Hey, punk, watch where you're going!\""}]},{"id":101,"slug":"err","front":[{"type":"word","content":"err"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"err","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make an error"},{"type":"example","content":"He <strong>erred</strong> in thinking that \"indigent\" and \"indignant\" were synonyms."}]},{"id":111,"slug":"censor","front":[{"type":"word","content":"censor"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"censor","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to examine and remove objectionable material"},{"type":"example","content":"Every fall, high school English teachers are inundated by requests to <strong>censor</strong> their curriculum by removing The Catcher in the Rye and Scarlet Letter from their reading lists."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an official who censors material"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>censor</strong> insisted that every reference to drugs should be removed from the manuscript."}]},{"id":133,"slug":"mesmerize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mesmerize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mesmerize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to spellbind or enthrall"},{"type":"example","content":"The plot and the characters were so well developed that many viewers were <strong>mesmerized</strong>, unable to move their eyes from the screen for even a single second."}]},{"id":166,"slug":"reprobate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reprobate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reprobate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person without morals who is disapproved of"},{"type":"example","content":"Mr. Smith’s two boys couldn’t be more different; one was a hard-working and principled, the other was the town <strong>reprobate</strong>, always having run-ins with the law."}]},{"id":181,"slug":"pine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to yearn for"},{"type":"example","content":"Standing forlornly by the window, she <strong>pined</strong> for her lost love."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":183,"slug":"remiss","front":[{"type":"word","content":"remiss"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"remiss","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be negligent in one\u2019s duty"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Remiss</strong> in his duty to keep the school functioning efficiently, the principal was relieved of his position after only three months."}]},{"id":184,"slug":"embroiled","front":[{"type":"word","content":"embroiled"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"embroiled","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> involved in argument or contention"},{"type":"example","content":"These days we are never short of a D.C. politician <strong>embroiled</strong> in scandal\u2014a welcome phenomenon for those who, having barely finished feasting on the sordid details of one imbroglio, can sink their teeth into a fresh one."}]},{"id":188,"slug":"thrifty","front":[{"type":"word","content":"thrifty"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"thrifty","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> spending money wisely"},{"type":"example","content":"He was economical, spending his money <strong>thriftily</strong> and on items considered essential."}]},{"id":191,"slug":"spendthrift","front":[{"type":"word","content":"spendthrift"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"spendthrift","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> one who spends money extravagantly"},{"type":"example","content":"Taking weekly trips to Vegas, Megan was a <strong>spendthrift</strong> whose excesses eventually caught up to her. "}]},{"id":202,"slug":"insolvent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"insolvent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"insolvent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unable to pay one's bills; bankrupt"},{"type":"example","content":"With credit card bills skyrocketing, a shockingly large number of Americans are truly <strong>insolvent</strong>."}]},{"id":203,"slug":"affluent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"affluent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"affluent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> wealthy"},{"type":"example","content":"The center of the city had sadly become a pit of penury, while, only five miles away, multi-million dollar homes spoke of <strong>affluence</strong>."}]},{"id":206,"slug":"unnerve","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unnerve"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unnerve","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make nervous or upset"},{"type":"example","content":"At one time <strong>unnerved</strong> by math problems, she began avidly \u201cWordGame-ing\u201d, and soon became adept at even combinations and permutations questions."}]},{"id":209,"slug":"inflammatory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inflammatory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inflammatory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> extremely controversial, incendiary"},{"type":"example","content":"It only takes one person to leave an <strong>inflammatory</strong> comment on an Internet thread for that thread to blow up into pages upon pages of reader indignation. "}]},{"id":217,"slug":"stipend","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stipend"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stipend","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a regular allowance (of money)"},{"type":"example","content":"He was hoping for a monthly allowance loan from the government, but after no such <strong>stipend</strong> was forthcoming he realized he would have to seek other means of paying for his college tuition. "}]},{"id":222,"slug":"dupe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dupe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dupe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to trick or swindle"},{"type":"example","content":"Once again a get-rich-fast Internet scheme had <strong>duped</strong> Harold into submitting a $5,000 check to a sham operation. "},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who is easily tricked or swindled"},{"type":"example","content":"The charlatan mistook the crowd for a bunch of <strong>dupes</strong>, but the crowd was quickly on to him and decried his bald-faced attempt to bilk them. "}]},{"id":232,"slug":"zenith","front":[{"type":"word","content":"zenith"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"zenith","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the highest point; culmination"},{"type":"example","content":"At the <strong>zenith</strong> of his artistic career, Elvis was outselling any other artist on the charts."}]},{"id":235,"slug":"summit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"summit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"summit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the peak or highest point"},{"type":"example","content":"After hiking for two days, the climbers finally reached the <strong>summit</strong> of Mount Kilimanjaro."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a meeting of high-level leaders"},{"type":"example","content":"Since climate change policy has been mired in congressional fighting, this <strong>summit</strong> should help set the goals for president's next term."}]},{"id":236,"slug":"acme","front":[{"type":"word","content":"acme"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"acme","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the highest point of achievement"},{"type":"example","content":"The new Cessna airplanes will be the <strong>acme</strong> of comfort, offering reclining seats and ample legroom. "}]},{"id":238,"slug":"pinnacle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pinnacle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pinnacle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the highest point"},{"type":"example","content":"At its <strong>pinnacle</strong>, the Roman Empire extended across most of the landmass of Eurasia, a feat not paralleled to the rise of the British Empire in the 18th and 19th century."}]},{"id":239,"slug":"voracious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"voracious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"voracious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very hungry; approaching an activity with gusto"},{"type":"example","content":"Steven was a <strong>voracious</strong> reader, sometimes finishing two novels in the same day."}]},{"id":247,"slug":"vindictive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vindictive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vindictive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to have a very strong desire for revenge"},{"type":"example","content":"Though the other girl had only lightly poked fun of Vanessa's choice in attire, Vanessa was so <strong>vindictive</strong> that she waited for an entire semester to get the perfect revenge. "}]},{"id":255,"slug":"underwrite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"underwrite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"underwrite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to support financially"},{"type":"example","content":"The latest symphony broadcast was made possible with <strong>underwriting</strong> from the Carnegie Endowment."}]},{"id":276,"slug":"hound","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hound"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hound","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to pursue relentlessly"},{"type":"example","content":"An implacable foe of corruption, Eliot Ness <strong>hounded</strong> out graft in all forms\u2014he even helped nab Al Capone."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":280,"slug":"dog","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dog"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dog","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to pursue relentlessly; to hound"},{"type":"example","content":"Throughout his life, he was <strong>dogged</strong> by insecurities that inhibited personal growth."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":295,"slug":"serendipity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"serendipity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"serendipity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the instance in which an accidental, fortunate discovery is made"},{"type":"example","content":"By pure <strong>serendipity</strong>, Sarah discovered, at a flea market in Peoria, a matching earring to replace the one that fell down the storm drain back home.  "}]},{"id":298,"slug":"affable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"affable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"affable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> likeable; easy to talk to"},{"type":"example","content":"For all his surface <strong>affability</strong>, Marco was remarkably glum when he wasn\u2019t around other people. "}]},{"id":302,"slug":"amiable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"amiable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"amiable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> friendly"},{"type":"example","content":"Amy\u2019s name was very apt: she was so <strong>amiable</strong> that she was twice voted class president."}]},{"id":307,"slug":"peruse","front":[{"type":"word","content":"peruse"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"peruse","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to read very carefully"},{"type":"example","content":"Instead of <strong>perusing</strong> important documents, people all too often rush to the bottom of the page and plaster their signatures at the bottom."}]},{"id":314,"slug":"screed","front":[{"type":"word","content":"screed"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"screed","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an abusive rant (often tedious)"},{"type":"example","content":"Joey had difficulty hanging out with his former best friend Perry, who, during his entire cup of coffee, enumerated all of the government\u2019s deficiencies--only to break ranks and launch into some <strong>screed</strong> against big business. "}]},{"id":315,"slug":"tirade","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tirade"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tirade","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an angry speech"},{"type":"example","content":"In terms of political change, a <strong>tirade</strong> oftentimes does little more than make the person speaking red in the face."}]},{"id":322,"slug":"diabolical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"diabolical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"diabolical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be extremely wicked like the devil"},{"type":"example","content":"The conspirators, willing to dispatch anyone who stood in their way, hatched a <strong>diabolical</strong> plan to take over the city."}]},{"id":329,"slug":"macabre","front":[{"type":"word","content":"macabre"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"macabre","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> suggesting the horror of death and decay; gruesome"},{"type":"example","content":"Edgar Allen Poe was considered the master of the <strong>macabre</strong>; his stories vividly describe the moment leading up to\u2014and often those moments after\u2014a grisly death."}]},{"id":331,"slug":"slapdash","front":[{"type":"word","content":"slapdash"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"slapdash","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> carelessly and hastily put together"},{"type":"example","content":"The office building had been constructed in a <strong>slapdash</strong> manner, so it did not surprise officials when, during a small earthquake, a large crack emerged on the fa\u00e7ade of the building."}]},{"id":332,"slug":"telltale","front":[{"type":"word","content":"telltale"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"telltale","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> revealing"},{"type":"example","content":"The many <strong>telltale</strong> signs of chronic smoking include yellow teeth, and a persistent, hacking cough."}]},{"id":336,"slug":"thoroughgoing","front":[{"type":"word","content":"thoroughgoing"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"thoroughgoing","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very thorough; complete"},{"type":"example","content":"As a <strong>thoroughgoing</strong> bibliophile, one who had turned his house into a veritable library, he shocked his friends when he bought a Kindle."}]},{"id":358,"slug":"demean","front":[{"type":"word","content":"demean"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"demean","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to insult; to cause someone to lose dignity or respect"},{"type":"example","content":"At first the soccer players bantered back and forth, but as soon as one of the players became <strong>demeaning</strong>, calling the other's mother a water buffalo, the ref whipped out a red card."}]},{"id":360,"slug":"indict","front":[{"type":"word","content":"indict"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"indict","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to formally charge or accuse of wrong-doing"},{"type":"example","content":"The bankrobber was <strong>indicted</strong> on several major charges, including possession of a firearm. "}]},{"id":5,"slug":"paucity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"paucity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"paucity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a lack of something"},{"type":"example","content":"There is a <strong>paucity</strong> of jobs hiring today that require menial skills, since most such jobs have either been automated or outsourced."}]},{"id":15,"slug":"contrite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"contrite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"contrite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be remorseful"},{"type":"example","content":"Though he stole his little sister\u2019s licorice stick with malevolent glee, Chucky soon became <strong>contrite</strong> when his sister wouldn't stop crying. "}]},{"id":17,"slug":"disparate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disparate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disparate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> two things are fundamentally different"},{"type":"example","content":"With the advent of machines capable of looking inside the brain, fields as <strong>disparate</strong> as religion and biology have been brought together by scientists trying to understand what happens in the brain when people have a religious experience. "}]},{"id":27,"slug":"stem","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stem"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stem","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to hold back or limit the flow or growth of something"},{"type":"example","content":"To <strong>stem</strong> the tide of applications, the prestigious Ivy requires that each applicant score at least 330 on the Revised GRE."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":29,"slug":"checkered","front":[{"type":"word","content":"checkered"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"checkered","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by disreputable or unfortunate happenings"},{"type":"example","content":"One by one, the presidential candidates dropped out of the race, their respective <strong>checkered</strong> pasts\u2014 from embezzlement to infidelity\u2014sabotaging their campaigns."}]},{"id":30,"slug":"raft","front":[{"type":"word","content":"raft"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"raft","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a large number of something"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite a <strong>raft</strong> of city ordinances passed by an overzealous council, noise pollution continued unabated in the megalopolis."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":35,"slug":"scintillating","front":[{"type":"word","content":"scintillating"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"scintillating","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> describes someone who is brilliant and lively"},{"type":"example","content":"Richard Feynman was renowned for his <strong>scintillating</strong> lectures\u2014the arcana of quantum physics was made lucid as he wrote animatedly on the chalkboard."}]},{"id":36,"slug":"flush","front":[{"type":"word","content":"flush"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"flush","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be in abundance"},{"type":"example","content":"The exam's passage is <strong>flush</strong> with difficult words, words that you may have learned only yesterday."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":41,"slug":"becoming","front":[{"type":"word","content":"becoming"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"becoming","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> appropriate, and matches nicely"},{"type":"example","content":"Her dress was <strong>becoming</strong> and made her look even more beautiful."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":43,"slug":"check","front":[{"type":"word","content":"check"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"check","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to limit (usually modifying the growth of something)"},{"type":"example","content":"Deserted for six months, the property began to look more like a jungle and less like a residence\u2014weeds grew <strong>unchecked</strong> in the front yard"},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the condition of being held back or limited"},{"type":"example","content":"When government abuses are not kept in <strong>check</strong>, that government is likely to become autocratic."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":51,"slug":"beatific","front":[{"type":"word","content":"beatific"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"beatific","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> blissfully happy"},{"type":"example","content":"Often we imagine all monks to wear the <strong>beatific</strong> smile of the Buddha, but, like any of us, a monk can have a bad day and not look very happy."}]},{"id":52,"slug":"pugnacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pugnacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pugnacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> eager to fight or argue; verbally combative"},{"type":"example","content":"The comedian told one flat joke after another, and when the audience started booing, he <strong>pugnaciously</strong> spat back at them, \u201cHey, you think this is easy \u2013 why don\u2019t you buffoons give it a shot?\u201d"}]},{"id":63,"slug":"moment","front":[{"type":"word","content":"moment"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"moment","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> significant and important value"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite the initial hullabaloo, the play was of no great <strong>moment</strong> in Hampton\u2019s writing career, and within a few years the public quickly forgot his foray into theater arts."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":78,"slug":"start","front":[{"type":"word","content":"start"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"start","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to suddenly move in a particular direction"},{"type":"example","content":"All alone in the mansion, Henrietta <strong>started</strong> when she heard a sound."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":80,"slug":"fleece","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fleece"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fleece","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to deceive"},{"type":"example","content":"Many people have been <strong>fleeced</strong> by Internet scams and never received their money back."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":82,"slug":"wax","front":[{"type":"word","content":"wax"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"wax","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to gradually increase in size or intensity"},{"type":"example","content":"Her enthusiasm for the diva\u2019s new album only <strong>waxed</strong> with each song; by the end of the album, it was her favorite CD yet. "},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":90,"slug":"preemptive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"preemptive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"preemptive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> done before someone else can do it"},{"type":"example","content":"Just as Martha was about to take the only cookie left on the table, Noah <strong>preemptively</strong> swiped it."}]},{"id":97,"slug":"errant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"errant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"errant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be wandering; not sticking to a circumscribed path"},{"type":"example","content":"Unlike his peers, who spent their hours studying in the library, Matthew preferred <strong>errant</strong> walks through the university campus."}]},{"id":113,"slug":"imponderable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"imponderable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"imponderable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> impossible to estimate or figure out"},{"type":"example","content":"According to many lawmakers, the huge variety of factors affecting society make devising an efficient healthcare system an <strong>imponderable</strong> task."}]},{"id":117,"slug":"junta","front":[{"type":"word","content":"junta"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"junta","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an aggressive takeover by a group (usually military); the group that executes such a takeover"},{"type":"example","content":"As dangerous of a threat as North Korea is, some analysts believe that were a <strong>junta</strong> suddenly to gain power, it could be even more unpredictable and bellicose than the current leadership"}]},{"id":121,"slug":"amok","front":[{"type":"word","content":"amok"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"amok","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adverb:</strong> in a frenzied or uncontrolled state"},{"type":"example","content":"Wherever the bowl haircut teen-idol went, his legions of screaming fans ran through the streets <strong>amok</strong>, hoping for a glance at his boyish face."}]},{"id":130,"slug":"melee","front":[{"type":"word","content":"melee"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"melee","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a wild, confusing fight or struggle"},{"type":"example","content":"After enduring daily taunts about my name, I became enraged and pummeled the schoolyard bully and his sycophantic friends in a brutal <strong>melee</strong>."}]},{"id":140,"slug":"chauvinist","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chauvinist"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chauvinist","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who believes in the superiority of their group"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>chauvinist</strong> lives on both sides of the political spectrum, outright shunning anybody whose ideas are not consistent with his own."}]},{"id":162,"slug":"sanguine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sanguine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sanguine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> cheerful; optimistic"},{"type":"example","content":"With the prospect of having to learn 3,000 words during the course of the summer, Paul was anything but <strong>sanguine</strong>. "}]},{"id":165,"slug":"misanthrope","front":[{"type":"word","content":"misanthrope"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"misanthrope","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a hater of mankind"},{"type":"example","content":"Kevin is such a <strong>misanthrope</strong> that he refused to attend the Christmas party, claiming that everyone's happiness was \"fake\" and \"annoying.\""}]},{"id":167,"slug":"virago","front":[{"type":"word","content":"virago"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"virago","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an ill-tempered or violent woman"},{"type":"example","content":"Poor Billy was the victim of the <strong>virago</strong>\u2019s invective\u2014she railed at him for a good 30-minutes about how he is the scum of the earth for speaking loudly on his cellphone in public. "}]},{"id":168,"slug":"cardinal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cardinal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cardinal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> of primary importance; fundamental"},{"type":"example","content":"Most cultures consider gambling a <strong>cardinal</strong> sin and thus have outlawed its practice."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":172,"slug":"desecrate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"desecrate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"desecrate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to willfully violate or destroy a sacred place"},{"type":"example","content":"After <strong>desecrating</strong> the pharaoh's tomb, the archaeologist soon fell victim to a horrible illness."}]},{"id":175,"slug":"sanctimonious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sanctimonious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sanctimonious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> making a show of being pious; holier-than-thou"},{"type":"example","content":"Even during the quiet sanctity of evening prayer, she held her chin high, a <strong>sanctimonious</strong> sneer forming on her face as she eyed those who were attending church for the first time."}]},{"id":212,"slug":"immaterial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"immaterial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"immaterial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not relevant"},{"type":"example","content":"The judge found the defendant\u2019s comments <strong>immaterial</strong> to the trial, and summarily dismissed him from the witness stand."}]},{"id":213,"slug":"avarice","front":[{"type":"word","content":"avarice"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"avarice","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> greed (one of the seven deadly sins)"},{"type":"example","content":"The Spanish conquistadors were known for their <strong>avarice</strong>, plundering Incan land and stealing Incan gold."}]},{"id":215,"slug":"unconscionable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unconscionable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unconscionable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unreasonable; unscrupulous; excessive"},{"type":"example","content":"The lawyer\u2019s demands were so <strong>unconscionable</strong> that rather than pay an exorbitant sum or submit himself to any other inconveniences, the defendant decided to find a new lawyer."}]},{"id":219,"slug":"pittance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pittance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pittance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a small amount (of money)"},{"type":"example","content":"Vinny\u2019s uncle beamed smugly about how he\u2019d offered his nephew fifty dollars for his Harvard tuition; even twice the amount would have been a mere <strong>pittance</strong>."}]},{"id":221,"slug":"exhort","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exhort"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exhort","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to strongly urge on; encourage"},{"type":"example","content":"Nelson\u2019s parents <strong>exhorted</strong> him to study medicine, urging him to choose a respectable profession; intransigent, Nelson left home to become a graffiti artist."}]},{"id":229,"slug":"extenuating","front":[{"type":"word","content":"extenuating"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"extenuating","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> making less guilty or more forgivable"},{"type":"example","content":"The jury was hardly moved by the man\u2019s plea that his loneliness was an <strong>extenuating</strong> factor in his crime of dognapping a prized pooch. "}]},{"id":240,"slug":"apex","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apex"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apex","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the highest point"},{"type":"example","content":"The Ivy League is considered the <strong>apex</strong> of the secondary education system."}]},{"id":245,"slug":"vicarious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vicarious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vicarious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> felt or undergone as if one were taking part in the experience or feelings of another"},{"type":"example","content":"The advent of twitter is a celebrity stalker's dream, as he or she can\u2014through hundreds of intimate \"tweets\"\u2014<strong>vicariously</strong> live the life of a famous person."}]},{"id":259,"slug":"bellicose","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bellicose"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bellicose","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> warlike; inclined to quarrel"},{"type":"example","content":"Known for their <strong>bellicose</strong> ways, the Spartans were once the most feared people from Peloponnesus to Persia."}]},{"id":260,"slug":"cogent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cogent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cogent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> clear and persuasive"},{"type":"example","content":"A <strong>cogent</strong> argument will change the minds of even the most skeptical audience."}]},{"id":269,"slug":"badger","front":[{"type":"word","content":"badger"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"badger","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to pester"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Badgered</strong> by his parents to find a job, the 30-year-old loafer instead joined a gang of itinerant musicians."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":273,"slug":"corroborate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"corroborate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"corroborate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to confirm or lend support to (usually an idea or claim)"},{"type":"example","content":"Her claim that frog populations were falling precipitously in Central America was <strong>corroborated</strong> by locals, who reported that many species of frogs had seemingly vanished overnight."}]},{"id":288,"slug":"ferret","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ferret"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ferret","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to search for something persistently"},{"type":"example","content":"Ever the resourceful lexicographer, Fenton was able to <strong>ferret</strong> out the word origin of highly obscure words."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":291,"slug":"animosity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"animosity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"animosity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> intense hostility"},{"type":"example","content":"The governor\u2019s <strong>animosity</strong> toward his rival was only inflamed when the latter spread false lies regarding the governor\u2019s first term."}]},{"id":328,"slug":"catalyst","front":[{"type":"word","content":"catalyst"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"catalyst","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something that speeds up an event"},{"type":"example","content":"Rosa Parks's refusal to give up her bus seat acted as a <strong>catalyst</strong> for the Civil Rights Movement, setting into motion historic changes for African-Americans. "}]},{"id":330,"slug":"cadaverous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cadaverous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cadaverous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> emaciated; gaunt"},{"type":"example","content":"Some actors take challenging roles in which they have to lose so much weight that they appear <strong>cadaverous</strong>."}]},{"id":333,"slug":"heyday","front":[{"type":"word","content":"heyday"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"heyday","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the pinnacle or top of a time period or career"},{"type":"example","content":"During the <strong>heyday</strong> of Prohibition, bootlegging had become such a lucrative business that many who had been opposed to the 18th Amendment began to fear it would be repealed."}]},{"id":334,"slug":"hodgepodge","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hodgepodge"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hodgepodge","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a confusing mixture or jumble"},{"type":"example","content":"Those in attendance represented a <strong>hodgepodge</strong> of the city's denizens: chimney sweepers could be seen sitting elbow to elbow with stockbrokers. "}]},{"id":335,"slug":"aboveboard","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aboveboard"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aboveboard","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> open and honest"},{"type":"example","content":"The mayor, despite his avuncular face plastered about the city, was hardly <strong>aboveboard</strong> \u2013 some concluded that it was his ingratiating smile that allowed him to engage in corrupt behavior and get\r\naway with it."}]},{"id":359,"slug":"replete","front":[{"type":"word","content":"replete"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"replete","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> completely stocked or furnished with something"},{"type":"example","content":"Only weeks after the hurricane made landfall, the local supermarket shelves were <strong>replete</strong> with goods, so quick was the disaster relief response.  "}]},{"id":380,"slug":"aesthete","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aesthete"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aesthete","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> one who professes great sensitivity to the beauty of art and nature"},{"type":"example","content":"A true <strong>aesthete</strong>, Marty would spend hours at the Guggenheim Museum, staring at the same Picasso."}]},{"id":381,"slug":"aesthetic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aesthetic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aesthetic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> concerned with the appreciation of beauty"},{"type":"example","content":"The director, not known for his <strong>aesthetic</strong> sensibilities, decided not to use costumes at all, and put on the play in everyday clothing."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a set of principles underlying and guiding the work of a particular artist or artistic movement."},{"type":"example","content":"The artist operated according to a peculiar <strong>aesthetic</strong>, not considering any photograph to be worth publishing unless it contained a marine mammal."}]},{"id":396,"slug":"apathetic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apathetic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apathetic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by a lack of interest"},{"type":"example","content":"Mr. Thompson was so talented at teaching math that even normally <strong>apathetic</strong> students took interest."}]},{"id":427,"slug":"audacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"audacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"audacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> willing to be bold in social situations or to take risks"},{"type":"example","content":"As all of the other campers cowered in their tents, Bill, armed only with a flashlight, <strong>audaciously</strong> tracked down the bear that had raided their food."}]},{"id":439,"slug":"banal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"banal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"banal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor used such <strong>banal</strong> expression that many students in the class either fell asleep from boredom or stayed awake to complete his sentences and humor friends."}]},{"id":468,"slug":"bucolic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bucolic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bucolic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> relating to the pleasant aspects of the country "},{"type":"example","content":"The noble families of England once owned vast expanses of beautiful, <strong>bucolic</strong> land."}]},{"id":489,"slug":"chortle","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chortle"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chortle","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to chuckle, laugh merrily, often in a breathy, muffled way"},{"type":"example","content":"Walking into the cafe, I could hear happy, <strong>chortling</strong> people and smell the rich aroma of roasted coffee beans."}]},{"id":503,"slug":"concede","front":[{"type":"word","content":"concede"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"concede","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> acknowledge defeat"},{"type":"example","content":"I <strong>concede</strong>. You win!"},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> admit (to a wrongdoing)"},{"type":"example","content":"After a long, stern lecture from her father, Olivia <strong>conceded</strong> to having broken the window."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> give over; surrender or relinquish to the physical control of another"},{"type":"example","content":"The Spanish were forced to <strong>concede</strong> much of the territory they had previously conquered."}]},{"id":511,"slug":"conspicuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"conspicuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"conspicuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without any attempt at concealment; completely obvious"},{"type":"example","content":"American basketball players are always <strong>conspicuous</strong> when they go abroad--not only are they American, but some are over seven feet tall."}]},{"id":536,"slug":"cryptic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"cryptic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"cryptic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> mysterious or vague, usually intentionally"},{"type":"example","content":"Since Sarah did not want her husband to guess the Christmas present she had bought him, she only answered <strong>cryptically</strong> when he would ask her questions about it."}]},{"id":538,"slug":"culminate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"culminate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"culminate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reach the highest or most decisive point"},{"type":"example","content":"Beethoven's musical genius <strong>culminated</strong> in the 9th Symphony, which many consider his greatest work."}]},{"id":539,"slug":"culpability","front":[{"type":"word","content":"culpability"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"culpability","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a state of guilt"},{"type":"example","content":"Since John had left his banana peel at the top of the stairwell, he accepted <strong>culpability</strong> for Martha's broken leg."}]},{"id":546,"slug":"decorous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"decorous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"decorous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by good taste in manners and conduct"},{"type":"example","content":"Sally's parties are <strong>decorous</strong> affairs, and instead of the usual beer and music, there is tea and intellectual conversation."}]},{"id":550,"slug":"deferential","front":[{"type":"word","content":"deferential"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"deferential","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing respect"},{"type":"example","content":"If you ever have the chance to meet the president, stand up straight and be <strong>deferential</strong>."}]},{"id":576,"slug":"dictatorial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dictatorial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dictatorial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> expecting unquestioning obedience; characteristic of an absolute ruler"},{"type":"example","content":"The coach was <strong>dictatorial</strong> in his approach: no players could ever argue or question his approach."}]},{"id":577,"slug":"didactic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"didactic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"didactic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> instructive (especially excessively)"},{"type":"example","content":"Tolstoy's The Death of Ivan Illyich is a <strong>didactic</strong> novel, instructing the reader on how to live a good life."}]},{"id":579,"slug":"diffident","front":[{"type":"word","content":"diffident"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"diffident","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing modest reserve; lacking self-confidence"},{"type":"example","content":"As a young girl she was <strong>diffident</strong> and reserved, but now as an adult, she is confident and assertive."}]},{"id":603,"slug":"dogmatic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dogmatic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dogmatic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> highly opinionated, not accepting that your belief may not be correct"},{"type":"example","content":"Bryan is <strong>dogmatic</strong> in his belief that the earth is flat, claiming that all pictures of a spherical earth are computer generated."}]},{"id":636,"slug":"engender","front":[{"type":"word","content":"engender"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"engender","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> give rise to"},{"type":"example","content":"The restrictions of the Treaty of Versailles were so severe that they <strong>engendered</strong> deep hatred and resentment in the German people."}]},{"id":642,"slug":"entrenched","front":[{"type":"word","content":"entrenched"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"entrenched","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> fixed firmly or securely"},{"type":"example","content":"By the time we reach 60-years old, most of our habits are so <strong>entrenched</strong> that it is difficult for us to change."}]},{"id":652,"slug":"eschew","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eschew"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eschew","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> avoid and stay away from deliberately; stay clear of"},{"type":"example","content":"Politicians are the masters of <strong>eschewing</strong> morals; academics are the masters of <strong>eschewing</strong> clarity."}]},{"id":661,"slug":"exacerbate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exacerbate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exacerbate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make worse"},{"type":"example","content":"Her sleeplessness <strong>exacerbated</strong> her cold--when she woke up the next day, her sinuses were completely blocked."}]},{"id":695,"slug":"fortuitous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fortuitous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fortuitous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> occurring by happy chance; having no cause or apparent cause"},{"type":"example","content":"Though Maria's neighbor Ernie \"bumped into\" her at the Farmer's Market, the encounter wasn't nearly as <strong>fortuitous</strong> as Maria was led to believe: Ernie desperately wanted to ask Maria out on a date and had been following her about town. "}]},{"id":696,"slug":"frivolous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"frivolous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"frivolous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not serious in content or attitude or behavior"},{"type":"example","content":"Compared to Juliet's passionate concern for human rights, Jake's non-stop concern about football seems somewhat <strong>frivolous</strong>."}]},{"id":701,"slug":"gainsay","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gainsay"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gainsay","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> deny or contradict; speak against or oppose"},{"type":"example","content":"I can't <strong>gainsay</strong> a single piece of evidence James has presented, but I still don't trust his conclusion."}]},{"id":702,"slug":"gall","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gall"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gall","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the trait of being rude and impertinent"},{"type":"example","content":"The speeding car had the <strong>gall</strong> to switch five lanes at once, run through a red light, and then cut off a police car before finally coming to a stop in front of a sea of flashing red lights."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will"},{"type":"example","content":"In an act of <strong>gall</strong>, Leah sent compromising photos of her ex-boyfriend to all his co-workers and professional contacts."}]},{"id":708,"slug":"germane","front":[{"type":"word","content":"germane"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"germane","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> relevant and appropriate"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor wanted to tell the jury in detail about his new book, but the lawyer said it wasn't <strong>germane</strong> to the charges in the cases."}]},{"id":711,"slug":"glut","front":[{"type":"word","content":"glut"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"glut","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an excessive supply"},{"type":"example","content":"The Internet offers such a <strong>glut</strong> of news related stories that many find it difficult to know which story to read first."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> supply with an excess of"},{"type":"example","content":"In the middle of economic crises, hiring managers find their inboxes <strong>glutted</strong> with resumes."}]},{"id":713,"slug":"gossamer","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gossamer"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gossamer","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by unusual lightness and delicacy"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>gossamer</strong> wings of a butterfly, which allow it to fly, are also a curse, so delicate that they are often damaged."}]},{"id":761,"slug":"impudent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impudent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impudent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> improperly forward or bold"},{"type":"example","content":"In an <strong>impudent</strong> move, the defendant spoke out of order to say terribly insulting things to the judge."}]},{"id":770,"slug":"incisive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incisive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incisive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions"},{"type":"example","content":"The lawyer had an <strong>incisive</strong> mind, able in a flash to dissect a hopelessly tangled issue and isolate the essential laws at play."}]},{"id":783,"slug":"inexorable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inexorable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inexorable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> impossible to stop or prevent"},{"type":"example","content":"The rise of the computer was an <strong>inexorable</strong> shift in technology and culture."}]},{"id":820,"slug":"lambast","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lambast"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lambast","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> criticize severely or angrily"},{"type":"example","content":"Showing no patience, the manager utterly <strong>lambasted</strong> the sales team that lost the big account."}]},{"id":845,"slug":"mawkish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mawkish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mawkish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> overly sentimental to the point that it is disgusting"},{"type":"example","content":"The film was incredibly <strong>mawkish</strong>, introducing highly likeable characters only to have them succumb to a devastating illness by the end of the movie."}]},{"id":852,"slug":"meticulous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"meticulous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"meticulous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by extreme care in treatment of details"},{"type":"example","content":"The Japanese noodle maker was <strong>meticulous</strong> in making his noodles and would never let another person take over the task."}]},{"id":857,"slug":"mitigate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mitigate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mitigate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make less severe or harsh"},{"type":"example","content":"I can only spend so much time <strong>mitigating</strong> your disagreements with your wife, and at certain point, you need to do it on your own."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> lessen the severity of an offense"},{"type":"example","content":"If it weren't for the <strong>mitigating</strong> circumstances, he would have certainly lost his job."}]},{"id":881,"slug":"obscure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obscure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obscure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make unclear"},{"type":"example","content":"On the Smith's drive through the Grand Canyon, Mr. Smith's big head <strong>obscured</strong> much of Mrs. Robinson's view, so that she only saw momentary patches of red rock."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> known by only a few"},{"type":"example","content":"Many of the biggest movie stars were once <strong>obscure</strong> actors who got only bit roles in long forgotten films."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but these are the most important ones to study"}]},{"id":914,"slug":"perfidy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"perfidy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"perfidy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an act of deliberate betrayal; a breach of a trust"},{"type":"example","content":"Sure, he was the best salesman in the company; but Michael had abused the trust of the firm, sharing product secrets with a competitor, and for such <strong>perfidy</strong> he was terminated."}]},{"id":931,"slug":"platitude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"platitude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"platitude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a trite or obvious remark"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor argued that many statements regarded as wise in previous times, such as the Golden Rule, are now regarded as mere <strong>platitudes</strong>."}]},{"id":944,"slug":"preclude","front":[{"type":"word","content":"preclude"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"preclude","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> keep from happening or arising; make impossible"},{"type":"example","content":"The manager specified that all other gates be locked, to <strong>preclude</strong> the possibility of persons without tickets entering the arena undetected."}]},{"id":946,"slug":"predilection","front":[{"type":"word","content":"predilection"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"predilection","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a strong liking"},{"type":"example","content":"Monte had a <strong>predilection</strong> for the fine things in life: Cuban cigars, 200 dollar bottles of wine, and trips to the French Riviera."}]},{"id":948,"slug":"prescience","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prescience"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prescience","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the power to foresee the future"},{"type":"example","content":"Baxter's warnings about investing in technology stocks seemed like an act of <strong>prescience</strong> after the whole market declined significantly."}]},{"id":978,"slug":"querulous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"querulous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"querulous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> habitually complaining"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>querulous</strong> old woman was beginning to wear down even the happier members of the staff with her ceaseless complaining."}]},{"id":993,"slug":"recondite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"recondite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"recondite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> difficult to penetrate; incomprehensible to one of ordinary understanding or knowledge"},{"type":"example","content":"I found Ulysses <strong>recondite</strong> and never finished the book, waiting instead to read it with someone else so we could penetrate its meaning together."}]},{"id":1012,"slug":"reticent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reticent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reticent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> disinclined to talk, not revealing one's thoughts "},{"type":"example","content":"When asked about her father, Helen lost her outward enthusiasm and became rather <strong>reticent</strong>."}]},{"id":1020,"slug":"rustic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rustic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rustic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characteristic of rural life; awkwardly simple and provincial"},{"type":"example","content":"The vacation cabin had no electricity and no indoor plumbing, but despite these inconveniences, Nigel adored its <strong>rustic</strong> charm."}]},{"id":1062,"slug":"superfluous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"superfluous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"superfluous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> serving no useful purpose"},{"type":"example","content":"How can we hope to stay open if we don't eliminate all <strong>superfluous</strong> spending, like catered meetings and free acupuncture Tuesday?"},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> more than is needed, desired, or required"},{"type":"example","content":"The third paragraph in your essay is <strong>superfluous</strong> and can be deleted."}]},{"id":1083,"slug":"torpor","front":[{"type":"word","content":"torpor"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"torpor","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> inactivity resulting from lethargy and lack of vigor or energy"},{"type":"example","content":"After work, I was expecting my colleagues to be enthusiastic about the outing, but I found them in a state of complete <strong>torpor</strong>."}]},{"id":1135,"slug":"vociferous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vociferous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vociferous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> conspicuously and offensively loud; given to vehement outcry"},{"type":"example","content":"In giving Marcia a particular <strong>vociferous</strong> response, Paul caused people at every other table in the restaurant to turn around and look at them angrily."}]},{"id":1136,"slug":"volubility","front":[{"type":"word","content":"volubility"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"volubility","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the quality of talking or writing easily and continuously"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor's <strong>volubility</strong> knows no bounds; he could talk through a hurricane and elaborate a point from one St. Patrick's Day to the next."}]},{"id":1324,"slug":"wordgame-blog","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Blog"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Blog","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> A place to find valuable information including study schedules and GRE tips.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"Lena used the 1 month study schedule on the <strong>WordGame blog</strong> to score well on the GRE."}]},{"id":370,"slug":"abstain","front":[{"type":"word","content":"abstain"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"abstain","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> choose not to consume or take part in (particularly something enjoyable)"},{"type":"example","content":"Considered a health nut, Jessica <strong>abstained</strong> from anything containing sugar--even chocolate."}]},{"id":384,"slug":"ameliorate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ameliorate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ameliorate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make something bad better"},{"type":"example","content":"\"Three Cups of Tea\" tells the story of western man who hopes to <strong>ameliorate</strong> poverty and the lack of education in Afghanistan."}]},{"id":397,"slug":"apathy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apathy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apathy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an absence of emotion or enthusiasm"},{"type":"example","content":"Widespread <strong>apathy</strong> among voters led to a very small turnout on election day."}]},{"id":418,"slug":"ascetic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ascetic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ascetic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> practicing self-denial"},{"type":"example","content":"His <strong>ascetic</strong> life is the main reason he inspired so many followers, especially since he gave up wealth and power to live in poverty."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> one who practices great self-denial"},{"type":"example","content":"Historically, <strong>ascetics</strong> like Gandhi are often considered wise men partially because of their restraint."}]},{"id":434,"slug":"avaricious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"avaricious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"avaricious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> excessively greedy"},{"type":"example","content":"Since <strong>avaricious</strong> desire is similar to gluttony or lust--sins of excess--it was listed as one of the seven deadly sins by the Catholic church."}]},{"id":447,"slug":"belligerent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"belligerent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"belligerent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characteristic of one eager to fight"},{"type":"example","content":"Tom said that he was arguing the matter purely for philosophical reasons, but his <strong>belligerent</strong> tone indicated an underlying anger about the issue."}]},{"id":491,"slug":"circumvent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"circumvent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"circumvent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cleverly find a way out of one's duties or obligations"},{"type":"example","content":"One way of <strong>circumventing</strong> the GRE is to apply to a grad school that does not require GRE scores."}]},{"id":519,"slug":"contrive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"contrive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"contrive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to pull off a plan or scheme, usually through skill or trickery"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite a low GPA, he <strong>contrived</strong> to get into college, going so far as to write his own glowing letters of recommendation."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":556,"slug":"delineate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"delineate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"delineate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> describe in detail"},{"type":"example","content":"After a brief summary of proper swimming technique, the coach <strong>delineated</strong> the specifics of each stroke, spending 30 minutes alone on the backstroke."}]},{"id":560,"slug":"denote","front":[{"type":"word","content":"denote"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"denote","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be a sign or indication of; have as a meaning"},{"type":"example","content":"Even if the text is not visible, the red octagon <strong>denotes</strong> \"stop\" to all motorists in America."}]},{"id":565,"slug":"derivative","front":[{"type":"word","content":"derivative"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"derivative","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not original but drawing strongly on something already in existence, especially in reference to a creative product (e.g. music, writing, poetry etc.)."},{"type":"example","content":"Because the movies were utterly <strong>derivative</strong> of other popular movies, they did well at the box office."}]},{"id":566,"slug":"derive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"derive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"derive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> come from; be connected by a relationship of blood, for example"},{"type":"example","content":"Many words in the English language are <strong>derived</strong> from Latin, including the word \"<strong>derive</strong>.\""},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reason by deduction; establish by deduction"},{"type":"example","content":"From the multiple set of footprints in the living room, the investigator <strong>derived</strong> an important clue: Sheila was not alone in the room at the time of the murder."}]},{"id":585,"slug":"disaffected","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disaffected"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disaffected","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> discontented as toward authority"},{"type":"example","content":"After watching his superior take rations from the soldiers, he quickly became <strong>disaffected</strong> and rebelled."}]},{"id":612,"slug":"eclectic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eclectic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eclectic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> comprised of a variety of styles"},{"type":"example","content":"Joey was known for his <strong>eclectic</strong> tastes in music, one moment dancing to disco the next \"air conducting\" along to Beethoven's 9th symphony."}]},{"id":624,"slug":"elucidate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"elucidate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"elucidate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make clearer and easier to understand"},{"type":"example","content":"Youtube is great place to learn just about anything--an expert <strong>elucidates</strong> finer points so that even a complete novice can learn."}]},{"id":629,"slug":"eminent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eminent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eminent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> standing above others in quality or position"},{"type":"example","content":"Shakespeare is an <strong>eminent</strong> author in the English language, but I find his writing uninteresting and melodramatic."}]},{"id":644,"slug":"ephemeral","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ephemeral"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ephemeral","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lasting a very short time"},{"type":"example","content":"The lifespan of a mayfly is <strong>ephemeral</strong>, lasting from a few hours to a couple of days."}]},{"id":675,"slug":"fallacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fallacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fallacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> of a belief that is based on faulty reasoning"},{"type":"example","content":"The widespread belief that Eskimos have forty different words for snow is <strong>fallacious</strong>, based on one false report."}]},{"id":692,"slug":"forlorn","front":[{"type":"word","content":"forlorn"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"forlorn","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by or showing hopelessness"},{"type":"example","content":"After her third pet dog died, Marcia was simply <strong>forlorn</strong>: this time even the possibility of buying a new dog no longer held any joy."}]},{"id":697,"slug":"frustrate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"frustrate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"frustrate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> hinder or prevent (the efforts, plans, or desires) of"},{"type":"example","content":"I thought I would finish writing the paper by lunchtime, but a number of urgent interruptions served to <strong>frustrate</strong> my plan."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":719,"slug":"guileless","front":[{"type":"word","content":"guileless"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"guileless","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> free of deceit"},{"type":"example","content":"At first I thought my niece was <strong>guileless</strong>, but I then found myself buying her ice cream every time we passed a shop."}]},{"id":729,"slug":"haughty","front":[{"type":"word","content":"haughty"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"haughty","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>haughty</strong> manager didn't believe that any of his subordinates could ever have an insight as brilliant as his own."}]},{"id":732,"slug":"heretic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"heretic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"heretic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who holds unorthodox opinions in any field (not merely religion)"},{"type":"example","content":"Though everybody at the gym told Mikey to do cardio before weights, Mikey was a <strong>heretic</strong> and always did the reverse."}]},{"id":745,"slug":"immutable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"immutable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"immutable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not able to be changed"},{"type":"example","content":"Taxes are one of the <strong>immutable</strong> laws of the land, so there is no use arguing about paying them."}]},{"id":772,"slug":"incongruous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incongruous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incongruous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking in harmony or compatibility or appropriateness"},{"type":"example","content":"The vast economic inequality of modern society is <strong>incongruous</strong> with America's ideals."}]},{"id":791,"slug":"insidious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"insidious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"insidious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> working in a subtle but destructive way"},{"type":"example","content":"Plaque is <strong>insidious</strong>: we cannot see it, but each day it eats away at our enamel, causing cavities and other dental problems."}]},{"id":810,"slug":"itinerant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"itinerant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"itinerant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> traveling from place to place to work"},{"type":"example","content":"Doctors used to be <strong>itinerant</strong>, traveling between patients' homes."}]},{"id":812,"slug":"jingoism","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jingoism"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jingoism","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> fanatical patriotism"},{"type":"example","content":"North Korea maintains intense control over its population through a combination of <strong>jingoism</strong> and cult of personality."}]},{"id":815,"slug":"jubilant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jubilant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jubilant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> full of high-spirited delight because of triumph or success"},{"type":"example","content":"My hardwork paid off, and I was <strong>jubilant</strong> to receive a perfect score on the GRE."}]},{"id":816,"slug":"juxtapose","front":[{"type":"word","content":"juxtapose"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"juxtapose","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> place side by side for contrast"},{"type":"example","content":"The appeal of her paintings comes from a classical style which is <strong>juxtaposed</strong> with modern themes."}]},{"id":822,"slug":"languid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"languid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"languid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not inclined towards physical exertion or effort; slow and relaxed"},{"type":"example","content":"As the sun beat down and the temperature climbed higher, we spent a <strong>languid</strong> week lying around the house."}]},{"id":835,"slug":"magnanimous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"magnanimous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"magnanimous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> noble and generous in spirit, especially towards a rival or someone less powerful"},{"type":"example","content":"He was a great sportsman: in defeat he was complimentary and in victory he was <strong>magnanimous</strong>."}]},{"id":859,"slug":"mollify","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mollify"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mollify","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make someone angry less angry; placate"},{"type":"example","content":"In the morning, Janine was unable to <strong>mollify</strong> Harry, if he happened to become angry, unless he'd had his cup of coffee."}]},{"id":871,"slug":"negligible","front":[{"type":"word","content":"negligible"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"negligible","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> so small as to be meaningless; insignificant"},{"type":"example","content":"The GRE tests cumulative knowledge, so if you cram the night before it is, at best, likely to only have a <strong>negligible</strong> impact on your score."}]},{"id":898,"slug":"panache","front":[{"type":"word","content":"panache"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"panache","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> distinctive and showy elegance"},{"type":"example","content":"Jim, with his typical <strong>panache</strong>, came to the wedding reception with a top hat and cane."}]},{"id":945,"slug":"precocious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"precocious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"precocious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by or characteristic of exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude)"},{"type":"example","content":"Though only seven years old, she was a <strong>precocious</strong> chess prodigy, able to beat players twice her age."}]},{"id":980,"slug":"quotidian","front":[{"type":"word","content":"quotidian"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"quotidian","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> found in the ordinary course of events"},{"type":"example","content":"Phil gets so involved thinking about Aristotle's arguments that he totally forgets <strong>quotidian</strong> concerns, such as exercising and eating regularly."}]},{"id":998,"slug":"refractory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"refractory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"refractory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> stubbornly resistant to authority or control"},{"type":"example","content":"Used to studious high school students, Martha was unprepared for the <strong>refractory</strong> Kindergarteners who neither sat still nor listened to a single word she said."}]},{"id":1019,"slug":"rudimentary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rudimentary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rudimentary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being in the earliest stages of development; being or involving basic facts or principles"},{"type":"example","content":"I would love to be able to present a fully polished proposal to the board, but right now, our plans for the product are still in the most <strong>rudimentary</strong> stages."}]},{"id":1046,"slug":"spurious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"spurious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"spurious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> plausible but false"},{"type":"example","content":"When listening to a politician speak, it is hard to distinguish the <strong>spurious</strong> claims from the authentic ones."}]},{"id":1052,"slug":"staunch","front":[{"type":"word","content":"staunch"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"staunch","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> firm and dependable especially in loyalty"},{"type":"example","content":"No longer a <strong>staunch</strong> supporter of the movement, Todd now will openly question whether its goals are worthwhile."}]},{"id":1058,"slug":"subsume","front":[{"type":"word","content":"subsume"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"subsume","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> contain or include"},{"type":"example","content":"The rogue wave quickly <strong>subsumed</strong> the pier and boardwalk, destroying everything in its path."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> consider (an instance of something) as part of a general rule or principle"},{"type":"example","content":"Don Quixote of La Mancha <strong>subsumes</strong> all other modern novels, demonstrating modern literary devices and predating even the idea of a postmodern, metanarrative."}]},{"id":1063,"slug":"supplant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"supplant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"supplant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> take the place or move into the position of"},{"type":"example","content":"For many, a cell phone has <strong>supplanted</strong> a traditional phone; in fact, most 20-somethings don't even have a traditional phone anymore. "}]},{"id":1071,"slug":"tantamount","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tantamount"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tantamount","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being essentially equal to something"},{"type":"example","content":"In many situations, remaining silent is <strong>tantamount</strong> to admitting guilt, so speak to prove your innocence."}]},{"id":1080,"slug":"tenacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tenacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tenacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> stubbornly unyielding"},{"type":"example","content":"Even the most <strong>tenacious</strong> advocates for gun ownership must admit some of the dangers that firearms present."}]},{"id":1091,"slug":"travesty","front":[{"type":"word","content":"travesty"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"travesty","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an absurd presentation of something; a mockery"},{"type":"example","content":"What I expected to be an intelligent, nuanced historical documentary turned out to be a poorly-produced <strong>travesty</strong> of the form."}]},{"id":1092,"slug":"treacherous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"treacherous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"treacherous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> tending to betray"},{"type":"example","content":"Even though Jesse James was an outlaw, his killer, Robert Ford, is remembered more for his <strong>treacherous</strong> actions than for eliminating a criminal and murder."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dangerously unstable and unpredictable"},{"type":"example","content":"The bridge built from twine and vine is <strong>treacherous</strong> to walk across, and so I think I will stay put right here."}]},{"id":1108,"slug":"unequivocal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unequivocal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unequivocal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> admitting of no doubt or misunderstanding; having only one meaning or interpretation and leading to only one conclusion"},{"type":"example","content":"The President's first statement on the subject was vague and open to competing interpretations, so when he spoke to Congress about the same subject later, he was careful to make his position completely <strong>unequivocal</strong>."}]},{"id":1127,"slug":"vehement","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vehement"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vehement","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by extreme intensity of emotions or convictions"},{"type":"example","content":"While the other employees responded to the bad news in a measured way, Andrew responded in a <strong>vehement</strong> manner, tipping over his desk and shouting at the top of his lungs."}]},{"id":1132,"slug":"vilify","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vilify"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vilify","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> spread negative information about"},{"type":"example","content":"Todd was noble after the divorce, choosing to say only complimentary things about Barbara, but Barbara did not hesitate to <strong>vilify</strong> Todd."}]},{"id":1326,"slug":"wordgame-free-trial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Free Trial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Free Trial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> A sample of lesson videos and practice questions to see if WordGame is right for you.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"Rachel tried the <strong>WordGame free trial</strong> to determine if the premium WordGame service was worth purchasing."}]},{"id":367,"slug":"aberrant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aberrant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aberrant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> markedly different from an accepted norm"},{"type":"example","content":"When the financial director started screaming and throwing food at his co-workers, the police had to come in to deal with his <strong>aberrant</strong> behavior."}]},{"id":371,"slug":"abstruse","front":[{"type":"word","content":"abstruse"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"abstruse","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> difficult to understand; incomprehensible"},{"type":"example","content":"Physics textbooks can seem so <strong>abstruse</strong> to the uninitiated that readers feel as though they are looking at hieroglyphics."}]},{"id":374,"slug":"acerbic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"acerbic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"acerbic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> harsh in tone"},{"type":"example","content":"Most movie critics are <strong>acerbic</strong> towards summer blockbusters, often referring to them as garbage."}]},{"id":375,"slug":"adamant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"adamant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"adamant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> refusing to change one's mind"},{"type":"example","content":"Civil rights icon Rosa Parks will forever be remembered for <strong>adamantly</strong> refusing to give up her seat on a public bus--even after the bus driver insisted, she remained rooted in place."}]},{"id":378,"slug":"admonitory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"admonitory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"admonitory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> serving to warn; expressing reproof or reproach especially as a corrective"},{"type":"example","content":"At the assembly, the high school vice-principal gave the students an <strong>admonitory</strong> speech, warning them of the many risks and dangers of prom night."}]},{"id":401,"slug":"apocryphal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"apocryphal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"apocryphal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being of questionable authenticity"},{"type":"example","content":"The web is notorious for sandwiching <strong>apocryphal</strong> stories between actual news."}]},{"id":454,"slug":"blatant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"blatant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"blatant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without any attempt at concealment; completely obvious"},{"type":"example","content":"Allen was often punished in school for <strong>blatantly</strong> disrespecting teachers."}]},{"id":469,"slug":"bumbling","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bumbling"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bumbling","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking physical movement skills, especially with the hands"},{"type":"example","content":"Within a week of starting, the <strong>bumbling</strong> new waiter was unceremoniously fired."}]},{"id":470,"slug":"burgeon","front":[{"type":"word","content":"burgeon"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"burgeon","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> grow and flourish"},{"type":"example","content":"China's housing market is <strong>burgeoning</strong>, but some predict that the growth is merely a bubble and will burst much like the U.S. real estate bubble of 2008."}]},{"id":508,"slug":"confound","front":[{"type":"word","content":"confound"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"confound","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be confusing or perplexing to"},{"type":"example","content":"Though Harry loved numbers, he found calculus <strong>confounding</strong>."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> mistake one thing for another"},{"type":"example","content":"Americans often <strong>confound</strong> sweet potatoes with yams, and refer to both vegetables by the same name."}]},{"id":514,"slug":"construe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"construe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"construe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> interpreted in a particular way"},{"type":"example","content":"The author's inability to take a side on the issue was <strong>construed</strong> by both his opponents and supporters as a sign of weakness."}]},{"id":517,"slug":"contingent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"contingent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"contingent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a gathering of persons representative of some larger group"},{"type":"example","content":"A small <strong>contingent</strong> of those loyal to the king have gathered around the castle to defend it."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dependent on (usually used with upon)"},{"type":"example","content":"Whether the former world champions can win again this year is <strong>contingent</strong> upon none of its star players getting injured."}]},{"id":523,"slug":"copious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"copious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"copious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> in abundant supply"},{"type":"example","content":"In midsummer, there are <strong>copious</strong> popsicle stands at the beach; in the winter, there are none."}]},{"id":547,"slug":"decorum","front":[{"type":"word","content":"decorum"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"decorum","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> propriety in manners and conduct"},{"type":"example","content":"\"You will obey the rules of <strong>decorum</strong> for this courtroom or spend the night in a jail cell,\" said the judge to the prosecutor."}]},{"id":559,"slug":"denigrate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"denigrate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"denigrate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> charge falsely or with malicious intent; attack the good name and reputation of someone"},{"type":"example","content":"Count Rumford <strong>denigrated</strong> the new theory of heat, demonstrating that it was wholly inadequate to explain the observations."}]},{"id":588,"slug":"discrete","front":[{"type":"word","content":"discrete"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"discrete","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> constituting a separate entity or part"},{"type":"example","content":"What was once known as Czechoslovakia has since split into two <strong>discrete</strong>, independent nations."}]},{"id":649,"slug":"eradicate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"eradicate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"eradicate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to completely destroy"},{"type":"example","content":"I tried <strong>eradicating</strong> the mosquitos in my apartment with a rolled up newspaper, but there were too many of them."}]},{"id":654,"slug":"espouse","front":[{"type":"word","content":"espouse"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"espouse","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to adopt or support an idea or cause"},{"type":"example","content":"As a college student, Charlie <strong>espoused</strong> Marxism, growing his beard out and railing against the evils of the free-market."}]},{"id":662,"slug":"exacting","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exacting"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exacting","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> requiring and demanding accuracy"},{"type":"example","content":"Though his childhood piano teacher was so <strong>exacting</strong>, Max is thankful now, as a professional pianist."}]},{"id":663,"slug":"exalt","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exalt"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exalt","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> praise or glorify"},{"type":"example","content":"The teenagers <strong>exalted</strong> the rock star, covering their bedrooms with posters of him."}]},{"id":669,"slug":"exonerate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"exonerate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"exonerate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> pronounce not guilty of criminal charges"},{"type":"example","content":"The document clearly indicated that Nick was out of the state at the time of the crime, and so served to <strong>exonerate</strong> him of any charges."}]},{"id":671,"slug":"expound","front":[{"type":"word","content":"expound"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"expound","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> add details or explanation; clarify the meaning; state in depth"},{"type":"example","content":"The CEO refused to <strong>expound</strong> on the decision to merge our department with another one, and so I quit."}]},{"id":693,"slug":"forthcoming","front":[{"type":"word","content":"forthcoming"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"forthcoming","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> available when required or as promised"},{"type":"example","content":"The President announced that the senators were about to reach a compromise, and that he was eager to read the <strong>forthcoming</strong> details of the bill."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> at ease in talking to others"},{"type":"example","content":"As a husband, Larry was not <strong>forthcoming</strong>: if Jill didn't demand to know details, Larry would never share them with her."}]},{"id":721,"slug":"hackneyed","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hackneyed"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hackneyed","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking significance through having been overused"},{"type":"example","content":"Cheryl rolled her eyes when she heard the lecturer's <strong>hackneyed</strong> advice to \"be true to yourself.\""}]},{"id":738,"slug":"iconoclastic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"iconoclastic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"iconoclastic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> defying tradition or convention"},{"type":"example","content":"Jackson Pollack was an <strong>iconoclastic</strong> artist, totally breaking with tradition by splashing paint on a blank canvas."}]},{"id":739,"slug":"idiosyncrasy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"idiosyncrasy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"idiosyncrasy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individual"},{"type":"example","content":"Peggy's numerous <strong>idiosyncrasies</strong> include wearing mismatched shoes, laughing loudly to herself, and owning a pet aardvark."}]},{"id":740,"slug":"ignoble","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ignoble"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ignoble","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> dishonorable"},{"type":"example","content":"In the 1920s, the World Series was rigged--an <strong>ignoble</strong> act which baseball took decades to recover from."}]},{"id":754,"slug":"implacable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"implacable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"implacable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> incapable of making less angry or hostile"},{"type":"example","content":"Win or lose, the coach was always <strong>implacable</strong>, never giving the athletes an easy practice or a break."}]},{"id":755,"slug":"implausible","front":[{"type":"word","content":"implausible"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"implausible","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> describing a statement that is not believable"},{"type":"example","content":"The teacher found it <strong>implausible</strong> that the student was late to school because he had been kidnapped by outlaws on horseback."}]},{"id":774,"slug":"incorrigible","front":[{"type":"word","content":"incorrigible"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"incorrigible","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> impervious to correction by punishment"},{"type":"example","content":"Tom Sawyer seems like an <strong>incorrigible</strong> youth until Huck Finn enters the novel; even Sawyer can't match his fierce individual spirit."}]},{"id":777,"slug":"indifference","front":[{"type":"word","content":"indifference"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"indifference","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the trait of seeming not to care"},{"type":"example","content":"In an effort to fight <strong>indifference</strong>, the president of the college introduced a new, stricter grading system."}]},{"id":786,"slug":"ingratiate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ingratiate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ingratiate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> gain favor with somebody by deliberate efforts"},{"type":"example","content":"Even though Tom didn't like his new boss, he decided to <strong>ingratiate</strong> himself to her in order to advance his career."}]},{"id":798,"slug":"intransigent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"intransigent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"intransigent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unwilling to change one's beliefs or course of action"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite many calls for mercy, the judge remained <strong>intransigent</strong>, citing strict legal precedence."}]},{"id":824,"slug":"largess","front":[{"type":"word","content":"largess"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"largess","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> extreme generosity and giving"},{"type":"example","content":"Uncle Frank was known for his <strong>largess</strong>, so his nephew was sad when he did not receive a present for his birthday."}]},{"id":825,"slug":"laudable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"laudable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"laudable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> worthy of high praise"},{"type":"example","content":"To say that Gandhi's actions were <strong>laudable</strong> is the greatest understatement; he overthrew an empire without violence."}]},{"id":869,"slug":"myopic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"myopic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"myopic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking foresight or imagination"},{"type":"example","content":"The company ultimately went out of business because the <strong>myopic</strong> managers couldn't predict the changes in their industry."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":888,"slug":"opaque","front":[{"type":"word","content":"opaque"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"opaque","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not clearly understood or expressed"},{"type":"example","content":"The meaning of the professor's new research was <strong>opaque</strong> to most people, so no one asked any questions."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":893,"slug":"ostentatious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ostentatious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ostentatious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> intended to attract notice and impress others; tawdry or vulgar"},{"type":"example","content":"Matt wanted to buy stone lions for front of the house, but Cynthia convinced him that such a display would be too <strong>ostentatious</strong> for a modest house in an unassuming neighborhood."}]},{"id":907,"slug":"pedantic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pedantic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pedantic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by a narrow focus on or display of learning especially its trivial aspects"},{"type":"example","content":"Professor Thompson was regarded as an expert in his field, but his lectures were utterly <strong>pedantic</strong>, focused on rigorous details of the most trivial conventions in the field."}]},{"id":922,"slug":"petulant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"petulant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"petulant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> easily irritated or annoyed"},{"type":"example","content":"When Ed first met Ruth, he didn't realize she was so <strong>petulant</strong>, but now that they are three months into their relationship, Ed feels a day doesn't go by in which she isn't whining about some minor issue."}]},{"id":940,"slug":"pragmatic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pragmatic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pragmatic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> guided by practical experience and observation rather than theory"},{"type":"example","content":"Rather than make a philosophical appeal to the Congressmen, the Speaker decided to take a far more <strong>pragmatic</strong> approach, making small side-deals that would add votes to his bill."}]},{"id":968,"slug":"provincial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"provincial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"provincial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characteristic of a limited perspective; not fashionable or sophisticated"},{"type":"example","content":"Maggie's enthusiasm about her high school teams seemed <strong>provincial</strong> to her college classmates, all of whom were following a nationally ranked college team."}]},{"id":973,"slug":"pundit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pundit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pundit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> someone who has been admitted to membership in a scholarly field"},{"type":"example","content":"Steven Pinker's credentials are unquestioned as a <strong>pundit</strong>; he has taught at MIT and Stanford, teaches at Harvard, and has published a number of influential books on cognition, language, and psychology."}]},{"id":992,"slug":"reconcile","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reconcile"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reconcile","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> make (one thing) compatible with (another)"},{"type":"example","content":"Peggy was unable to <strong>reconcile</strong> her kind friend Jane with the cruel and merciless character Jane played on television."}]},{"id":999,"slug":"refute","front":[{"type":"word","content":"refute"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"refute","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> prove to be false or incorrect"},{"type":"example","content":"No one could <strong>refute</strong> his theories or propositions, and that is why he was esteemed by all his colleagues in the philosophy department."}]},{"id":1040,"slug":"soporific","front":[{"type":"word","content":"soporific"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"soporific","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> inducing mental lethargy; sleep inducing"},{"type":"example","content":"Although the professor is brilliant, his bland monotone gives his lectures a <strong>soporific</strong> effect."}]},{"id":1076,"slug":"temperance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"temperance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"temperance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the trait of avoiding excesses"},{"type":"example","content":"Welles wasn't known for his <strong>temperance</strong>--he usually ate enough for two and drank enough for three."}]},{"id":1084,"slug":"tortuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tortuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tortuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by repeated turns and bends; not straightforward"},{"type":"example","content":"Because the logic behind McMahon's side of the debate was so <strong>tortuous</strong>, his audience came out either completely confused or, worse, feeling they'd been tricked."}]},{"id":1107,"slug":"underscore","front":[{"type":"word","content":"underscore"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"underscore","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> give extra weight to (a communication)"},{"type":"example","content":"While the hiking instructor agreed that carrying a first aid kit could be a good idea under certain circumstances, he <strong>underscored</strong> the importance of carrying enough water."}]},{"id":1116,"slug":"unscrupulous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"unscrupulous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"unscrupulous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> without scruples or principles"},{"type":"example","content":"In the courtroom, the lawyer was <strong>unscrupulous</strong>, using every manner of deceit and manipulation to secure a victory for himself."}]},{"id":1325,"slug":"wordgame-practice-exams","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Practice Exams"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Practice Exams","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> Determine how you'd do on an actual GRE exam by taking a practice exam.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>WordGame practice exams</strong> enabled Margarette to get a sense of what taking the GRE on test-day would be like."}]},{"id":373,"slug":"accolade","front":[{"type":"word","content":"accolade"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"accolade","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an award or praise granted as a special honor"},{"type":"example","content":"Jean Paul-Sartre was not a fan of <strong>accolades</strong>, and as such, he refused to accept the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1964."}]},{"id":377,"slug":"admonish","front":[{"type":"word","content":"admonish"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"admonish","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to warn strongly, even to the point of reprimanding"},{"type":"example","content":"Before the concert began, security personnel <strong>admonished</strong> the crowd not to come up on stage during the performance."}]},{"id":395,"slug":"antithetical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"antithetical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"antithetical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> sharply contrasted in character or purpose"},{"type":"example","content":"His deep emotional involvement with these ideas is, in fact, <strong>antithetical</strong> to the disattachment Buddhism preaches."}]},{"id":409,"slug":"arbitrary","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arbitrary"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arbitrary","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> based on a random, groundless decision"},{"type":"example","content":"One of the <strong>arbitrary</strong> decrees in place during the emperor's rule is that all citizens pay him weekly homage at his palace."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":410,"slug":"arcane","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arcane"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arcane","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> requiring secret or mysterious knowledge"},{"type":"example","content":"Most college fraternities are known for <strong>arcane</strong> rituals that those hoping to the join the fraternity must learn."}]},{"id":428,"slug":"audacity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"audacity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"audacity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> aggressive boldness in social situations"},{"type":"example","content":"Mike was upset at the man who not only cut in front of him at the ticket counter but also had the <strong>audacity</strong> to cut in front of him at the bathroom line."}]},{"id":430,"slug":"austere","front":[{"type":"word","content":"austere"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"austere","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> practicing self-denial"},{"type":"example","content":"His lifestyle of revelry and luxurious excess could hardly be called <strong>austere</strong>."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unadorned in style or appearance"},{"type":"example","content":"Late Soviet architecture, although remaining largely <strong>austere</strong>, moved into experimental territory that employed previously unused shapes and structures."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> harsh in manner of temperament"},{"type":"example","content":"The principal of my elementary school was a cold, <strong>austere</strong> woman; I could never understand why she chose to work with children."}]},{"id":459,"slug":"brazen","front":[{"type":"word","content":"brazen"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"brazen","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unrestrained by convention or propriety"},{"type":"example","content":"Their large \"donations\" to the local police department gave the drug cartel the <strong>brazen</strong> confidence to do their business out in the open."}]},{"id":490,"slug":"circumscribe","front":[{"type":"word","content":"circumscribe"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"circumscribe","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> restrict or confine"},{"type":"example","content":"Their tour of South America was <strong>circumscribed</strong> so that they saw only popular destinations and avoided the dangerous parts of cities."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":512,"slug":"constituent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"constituent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"constituent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a citizen who is represented in a government by officials for whom he or she votes"},{"type":"example","content":"The mayor's <strong>constituents</strong> are no longer happy with her performance and plan to vote for another candidate in the upcoming election."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an abstract part of something"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>constituents</strong> of the metal alloy are nickel, copper, and tin."}]},{"id":582,"slug":"dilettante","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dilettante"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dilettante","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an amateur who engages in an activity without serious intentions and who pretends to have knowledge"},{"type":"example","content":"Fred has no formal medical training; while he likes to claim authority on medical issues, he is little more than a <strong>dilettante</strong>."}]},{"id":690,"slug":"foment","front":[{"type":"word","content":"foment"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"foment","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> try to stir up public opinion"},{"type":"example","content":"After having his pay cut, Phil spread vicious rumors about his boss, hoping to <strong>foment</strong> a general feeling of discontent."}]},{"id":704,"slug":"garrulous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"garrulous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"garrulous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> full of trivial conversation"},{"type":"example","content":"Lynne was <strong>garrulous</strong>: once, she had a fifteen minute conversation with a stranger before she realized the woman didn't speak English."}]},{"id":705,"slug":"gauche","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gauche"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gauche","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking social polish"},{"type":"example","content":"Sylvester says the most <strong>gauche</strong> things, such as telling a girl he liked that she was much prettier when she wore makeup."}]},{"id":727,"slug":"haphazard","front":[{"type":"word","content":"haphazard"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"haphazard","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by great carelessness; dependent upon or characterized by chance"},{"type":"example","content":"Many golf courses are designed with great care, but the greens on the county golf course seem entirely <strong>haphazard</strong>."}]},{"id":731,"slug":"hegemony","front":[{"type":"word","content":"hegemony"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"hegemony","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> dominance over a certain area"},{"type":"example","content":"Until the Spanish Armada was defeated in 1587, Spain had <strong>hegemony</strong> over the seas, controlling waters stretching as far as the Americas."}]},{"id":787,"slug":"inimical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inimical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inimical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> hostile (usually describes conditions or environments)"},{"type":"example","content":"Venus, with a surface temperature that would turn rubber to liquid, is <strong>inimical</strong> to any form of life."}]},{"id":790,"slug":"inscrutable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inscrutable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inscrutable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not easily understood; unfathomable"},{"type":"example","content":"His speech was so dense and confusing that many in the audience found it <strong>inscrutable</strong>."}]},{"id":793,"slug":"insolent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"insolent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"insolent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> rude and arrogant"},{"type":"example","content":"Lilian could not help herself from being <strong>insolent</strong>, commenting that the Queen's shoes were showing too much toe."}]},{"id":799,"slug":"intrepid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"intrepid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"intrepid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> fearless"},{"type":"example","content":"Captain Ahab was an <strong>intrepid</strong> captain whose reckless and fearless style ultimately lead to his downfall."}]},{"id":801,"slug":"inveterate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"inveterate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"inveterate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> habitual"},{"type":"example","content":"He is an <strong>inveterate</strong> smoker and has told his family and friends that there is no way he will ever quit."}]},{"id":809,"slug":"irrevocable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"irrevocable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"irrevocable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> incapable of being retracted or revoked"},{"type":"example","content":"Once you enter your plea to the court, it is <strong>irrevocable</strong> so think carefully about what you will say."}]},{"id":828,"slug":"lionize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"lionize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"lionize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> assign great social importance to"},{"type":"example","content":"Students in the U.S. learn to <strong>lionize</strong> Jefferson, Franklin, and Washington because they are the founding fathers of the nation."}]},{"id":866,"slug":"munificent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"munificent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"munificent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> very generous"},{"type":"example","content":"Uncle Charley was known for his <strong>munificence</strong>, giving all seven of his nephews lavish Christmas presents each year."}]},{"id":870,"slug":"myriad","front":[{"type":"word","content":"myriad"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"myriad","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a large indefinite number"},{"type":"example","content":"There are a <strong>myriad</strong> of internet sites hawking pills that claim to boost energy for hours on end."}]},{"id":882,"slug":"obsequious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"obsequious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"obsequious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> attentive in an ingratiating or servile manner; attempting to win favor from influential people by flattery"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>obsequious</strong> waiter did not give the couple a moment's peace all through the meal, constantly returning to their table to refill their water glasses and to tell them what a handsome pair they made."}]},{"id":894,"slug":"ostracize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ostracize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ostracize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> exclude from a community or group"},{"type":"example","content":"Later in his life, Leo Tolstoy was <strong>ostracized</strong> from the Russian Orthodox Church for his writings that contradicted church doctrine."}]},{"id":908,"slug":"pedestrian","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pedestrian"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pedestrian","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking imagination"},{"type":"example","content":"While Nan was always engaged in philosophical speculation, her brother was occupied with far more <strong>pedestrian</strong> concerns: how to earn a salary and run a household."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":916,"slug":"pernicious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pernicious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pernicious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> exceedingly harmful; working or spreading in a hidden and injurious way"},{"type":"example","content":"The most successful viruses are <strong>pernicious</strong>: an infected person may feel perfectly healthy for several months while incubating and spreading the virus."}]},{"id":935,"slug":"poignant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"poignant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"poignant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> emotionally touching"},{"type":"example","content":"After the Montagues and Capulets discover the dead bodies of Romeo and Juliet,  in the play's most <strong>poignant</strong> moment, the two griefstricken familes agree to end their feud once and for all."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":943,"slug":"precipitous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"precipitous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"precipitous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> done with very great haste and without due deliberation"},{"type":"example","content":"Instead of calling his financial advisor, Harold acted <strong>precipitously</strong>, buying 4,000 shares of the latest \"hot\" stock, only to find out that the company had a history of inflating its year end numbers.  "}]},{"id":956,"slug":"prodigious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prodigious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prodigious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> so great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe"},{"type":"example","content":"After the relatively small homerun totals in the \"dead ball\" era, Babe Ruth's homerun totals were truly <strong>prodigious</strong>: every year, he set a new all-time record."}]},{"id":960,"slug":"prolific","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prolific"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prolific","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> intellectually productive"},{"type":"example","content":"Schubert was the most <strong>prolific</strong> composer, producing hundreds of hours of music before he died at the age of 31."}]},{"id":963,"slug":"propitious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"propitious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"propitious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> presenting favorable circumstances; likely to result in or show signs of success"},{"type":"example","content":"The child's heartbeat is still weak, but I am seeing many <strong>propitious</strong> signs and I think that she may be healing."}]},{"id":989,"slug":"ravenous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ravenous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ravenous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> extremely hungry; devouring or craving food in great quantities"},{"type":"example","content":"John didn't eat much at all during the week he had the flu, so now that he is regaining his health, it's not surprising that he has a <strong>ravenous</strong> appetite."}]},{"id":1004,"slug":"repudiate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"repudiate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"repudiate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reject as untrue or unfounded"},{"type":"example","content":"Many in the public believed the rumors of a UFO crash outside town, so the chief of police did everything he could to <strong>repudiate</strong> the rumors."}]},{"id":1005,"slug":"rescind","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rescind"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rescind","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cancel officially"},{"type":"example","content":"The man's driver's license was <strong>rescinded</strong> after his tenth car accident, which meant he would never be allowed to legally drive again."}]},{"id":1011,"slug":"resurgent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"resurgent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"resurgent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> rising again as to new life and vigor"},{"type":"example","content":"The team sank to fourth place in June, but is now <strong>resurgent</strong> and about to win the division."}]},{"id":1014,"slug":"reverent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reverent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reverent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> feeling or showing profound respect or veneration"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor could speak objectively about the other composers, but he always lectured about Brahms with a particularly <strong>reverent</strong> air, unable to offer a single criticism of his compositions."}]},{"id":1022,"slug":"sanction","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sanction"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sanction","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> give authority or permission to"},{"type":"example","content":"The authorities have <strong>sanctioned</strong> the use of the wilderness reserve for public use; many expect to see hikers and campers enjoying the park in the coming months."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a legal penalty for a forbidden action"},{"type":"example","content":"International <strong>sanctions</strong> have been placed on certain shipping lanes that were thought to be involved in human trafficking."}]},{"id":1025,"slug":"scrupulous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"scrupulous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"scrupulous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> characterized by extreme care and great effort"},{"type":"example","content":"Because of his <strong>scrupulous</strong> nature, Mary put him in charge of numbering and cataloging the entire collection of rare stamps."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having a sense of right and wrong; principled"},{"type":"example","content":"Everyone trusted what he said and followed his example because he was <strong>scrupulous</strong> and honest."}]},{"id":1045,"slug":"sporadic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sporadic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sporadic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> recurring in scattered and irregular or unpredictable instances"},{"type":"example","content":"The signals were at first <strong>sporadic</strong>, but now we detect a clear, consistent pattern of electromagnetic radiation emanating from deep space."}]},{"id":1060,"slug":"subversive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"subversive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"subversive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> in opposition to an established system or institution. "},{"type":"example","content":"The ruling political party has begun a campaign to shut down <strong>subversive</strong> websites that it deems as a threat to \"national safety.\""}]},{"id":1067,"slug":"sycophant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sycophant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sycophant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a person who tries to please someone in order to gain a personal advantage"},{"type":"example","content":"The CEO was unaware of the damaging consequences of his choices, largely because he surrounded himself with <strong>sycophants</strong> who would never dare criticize him."}]},{"id":1069,"slug":"taciturn","front":[{"type":"word","content":"taciturn"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"taciturn","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> habitually reserved and uncommunicative"},{"type":"example","content":"While the CEO enthusiastically shares his plans and agenda with all who will listen, the CFO is far more <strong>taciturn</strong>, rarely revealing his perspective."}]},{"id":1078,"slug":"tempered","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tempered"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tempered","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> moderated in effect"},{"type":"example","content":"The wide-eyed optimism of her youth was now <strong>tempered</strong> after she had worked many years in the criminal justice system."}]},{"id":1086,"slug":"tractable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"tractable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"tractable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> readily reacting to suggestions and influences; easily managed (controlled or taught or molded)"},{"type":"example","content":"Compared to middle school students, who have an untamed wildness about them, high school students are somewhat more <strong>tractable</strong>."}]},{"id":1097,"slug":"trite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"trite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"trite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse"},{"type":"example","content":"Many style guides recommend not using idioms in writing because these <strong>trite</strong> expressions are uninteresting and show a lack of imagination on the part of the writer."}]},{"id":1123,"slug":"vacillate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vacillate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vacillate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> be undecided about something; waver between conflicting positions or courses of action"},{"type":"example","content":"Some students <strong>vacillate</strong> between schools when deciding which to attend, while others focus only on one school."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":1139,"slug":"winsome","front":[{"type":"word","content":"winsome"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"winsome","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> charming in a childlike or naive way"},{"type":"example","content":"She was <strong>winsome</strong> by nature, and many people were drawn to this free and playful spirit."}]},{"id":1322,"slug":"wordgame-practice-questions","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Practice Questions"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Practice Questions","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> Test your understanding of concepts from lesson videos.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"Zach got  7/7 questions correct on a practice session using <strong>WordGame practice questions</strong>."}]},{"id":390,"slug":"anomaly","front":[{"type":"word","content":"anomaly"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"anomaly","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> something that is not normal, standard, or expected"},{"type":"example","content":"After finding an <strong>anomaly</strong> in the data, she knew that she would have to conduct her experiment again."}]},{"id":393,"slug":"antipathy","front":[{"type":"word","content":"antipathy"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"antipathy","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> an intense feeling of dislike or aversion"},{"type":"example","content":"Maria had an <strong>antipathy</strong> for tour groups, often bolting to the other side of the museum as soon as she saw a chaperone leading a group of wide-eyed tourists."}]},{"id":403,"slug":"appease","front":[{"type":"word","content":"appease"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"appease","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> pacify by acceding to the demands of"},{"type":"example","content":"Neville Chamberlain, the British prime minister during WWII, tried to <strong>appease</strong> Hitler and in doing so sent a clear message: you can walk all over us."}]},{"id":412,"slug":"arduous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"arduous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"arduous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> demanding considerable mental effort and skill; testing powers of endurance"},{"type":"example","content":"In order to deal with the <strong>arduous</strong> cross-country journey, truck drivers often survive on a string of caffeinated drinks, staying awake for up to 30 hours at a time."}]},{"id":421,"slug":"askance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"askance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"askance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adverb:</strong> with a look of suspicion or disapproval"},{"type":"example","content":"The old couple looked <strong>askance</strong> on the teenagers seated next to them, whispering to each other, \"They've got rings through their noses and purple hair!\""}]},{"id":440,"slug":"banality","front":[{"type":"word","content":"banality"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"banality","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a trite or obvious remark"},{"type":"example","content":"Herbert regarded the minister's remark as a mere <strong>banality</strong> until Sharon pointed out profound implications to the seemingly obvious words."}]},{"id":455,"slug":"bolster","front":[{"type":"word","content":"bolster"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"bolster","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> support and strengthen"},{"type":"example","content":"The case for the suspect's innocence was <strong>bolstered</strong> considerably by the fact that neither fingerprints nor DNA were found at the scene."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":476,"slug":"capricious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"capricious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"capricious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> determined by chance or impulse or whim rather than by necessity or reason"},{"type":"example","content":"Nearly every month our <strong>capricious</strong> CEO had a new plan to turn the company around, and none of them worked because we never gave them the time they needed to succeed."}]},{"id":518,"slug":"contrition","front":[{"type":"word","content":"contrition"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"contrition","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the feeling of remorse or guilt that comes from doing something bad"},{"type":"example","content":"Those who show <strong>contrition</strong> during their prison terms--especially when under review by a parole board--often get shortened sentences."}]},{"id":531,"slug":"craven","front":[{"type":"word","content":"craven"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"craven","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> pathetically cowardly"},{"type":"example","content":"Though the man could have at least alerted the police, he crouched <strong>cravenly</strong> in the corner as the old woman was mugged."}]},{"id":554,"slug":"deleterious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"deleterious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"deleterious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> harmful to living things"},{"type":"example","content":"The BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico was <strong>deleterious</strong> to the fishing industry in the southern states."}]},{"id":581,"slug":"dilatory","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dilatory"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dilatory","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> wasting time"},{"type":"example","content":"Lawyers use <strong>dilatory</strong> tactics so that it takes years before the case is actually decided."}]},{"id":595,"slug":"dispassionate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"dispassionate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"dispassionate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unaffected by strong emotion or prejudice"},{"type":"example","content":"A good scientist should be <strong>dispassionate</strong>, focusing purely on what the evidence says, without personal attachment."}]},{"id":599,"slug":"disseminate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disseminate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disseminate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause to become widely known"},{"type":"example","content":"Before the effects of anesthesia were <strong>disseminated</strong>, patients had to experience the full pain of a surgery."}]},{"id":609,"slug":"duress","front":[{"type":"word","content":"duress"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"duress","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> compulsory force or threat"},{"type":"example","content":"The witness said he signed the contract under <strong>duress</strong> and argued that the court should cancel the agreement."}]},{"id":613,"slug":"economical","front":[{"type":"word","content":"economical"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"economical","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> avoiding waste, efficient"},{"type":"example","content":"Journalists favor an <strong>economical</strong> style of writing, in which no unnecessary words are used and every sentence is as short as possible."}]},{"id":614,"slug":"edifying","front":[{"type":"word","content":"edifying"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"edifying","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> enlightening or uplifting so as to encourage intellectual or moral improvement"},{"type":"example","content":"I recently read an article in the Times about whether good literature is <strong>edifying</strong> or not; specifically, does reading more make a person more moral."}]},{"id":616,"slug":"efficacious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"efficacious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"efficacious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> producing the intended result"},{"type":"example","content":"Since Maggie's cough syrup, which had expired five years back, was no longer <strong>efficacious</strong>, she coughed through the night."}]},{"id":623,"slug":"elicit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"elicit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"elicit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)"},{"type":"example","content":"Just smiling--even if you are depressed--can <strong>elicit</strong> feelings of pleasure and happiness."}]},{"id":651,"slug":"erudite","front":[{"type":"word","content":"erudite"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"erudite","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> having or showing profound knowledge"},{"type":"example","content":"Before the Internet, the library was typically where you would find <strong>erudite</strong> readers."}]},{"id":653,"slug":"esoteric","front":[{"type":"word","content":"esoteric"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"esoteric","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> confined to and understandable by only an enlightened inner circle"},{"type":"example","content":"Map collecting is an <strong>esoteric</strong> hobby to most, but to geography geeks it is a highly enjoyable pastime."}]},{"id":676,"slug":"fastidious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"fastidious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"fastidious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> overly concerned with details; fussy"},{"type":"example","content":"Whitney is <strong>fastidious</strong> about her shoes, arranging them on a shelf in a specific order, each pair evenly spaced."}]},{"id":688,"slug":"flux","front":[{"type":"word","content":"flux"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"flux","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a state of uncertainty about what should be done (usually following some important event)"},{"type":"example","content":"Ever since Elvira resigned as the head of marketing, everything about our sales strategy has been in a state of <strong>flux</strong>."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":698,"slug":"furtive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"furtive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"furtive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed"},{"type":"example","content":"While at work, George and his boss Regina felt the need to be as <strong>furtive</strong> as possible about their romantic relationship."}]},{"id":728,"slug":"harried","front":[{"type":"word","content":"harried"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"harried","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> troubled persistently especially with petty annoyances"},{"type":"example","content":"With a team of new hires to train, Martha was constantly <strong>harried</strong> with little questions and could not focus on her projects."}]},{"id":741,"slug":"ignominious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ignominious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ignominious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (used of conduct or character) deserving or bringing disgrace or shame"},{"type":"example","content":"Since the politician preached ethics and morality, his texting of revealing photographs was <strong>ignominious</strong>, bringing shame on both himself and his party."}]},{"id":746,"slug":"impartial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impartial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impartial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> free from undue bias or preconceived opinions"},{"type":"example","content":"The judge was not <strong>impartial</strong> since he had been bribed by the witness's family."}]},{"id":760,"slug":"imprudent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"imprudent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"imprudent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not wise"},{"type":"example","content":"Hitler, like Napoleon, made the <strong>imprudent</strong> move of invading Russia in winter, suffering even more casualties than Napoleon had."}]},{"id":776,"slug":"indecorous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"indecorous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"indecorous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite society"},{"type":"example","content":"Eating with elbows on the table is considered <strong>indecorous</strong> in refined circles."}]},{"id":814,"slug":"jovial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"jovial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"jovial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> full of or showing high-spirited merriment"},{"type":"example","content":"The presidential candidate and her supporters were <strong>jovial</strong> once it was clear that she had won."}]},{"id":836,"slug":"maladroit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"maladroit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"maladroit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> clumsy"},{"type":"example","content":"As a child she was quite <strong>maladroit</strong>, but as an adult, she has become an adept dancer."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":844,"slug":"maverick","front":[{"type":"word","content":"maverick"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"maverick","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> someone who exhibits great independence in thought and action"},{"type":"example","content":"Officer Kelly was a <strong>maverick</strong>, rarely following police protocols or adopting the conventions for speech common among his fellow officers."}]},{"id":849,"slug":"mendacity","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mendacity"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mendacity","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the tendency to be untruthful"},{"type":"example","content":"I can forgive her for her <strong>mendacity</strong> but only because she is a child and is seeing what she can get away with."}]},{"id":854,"slug":"misconstrue","front":[{"type":"word","content":"misconstrue"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"misconstrue","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> interpret in the wrong way"},{"type":"example","content":"The politician never trusted journalists because he thought that they would <strong>misconstrue</strong> his words and misrepresent his positions."}]},{"id":865,"slug":"mundane","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mundane"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mundane","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> repetitive and boring; not spiritual"},{"type":"example","content":"Nancy found doing dishes a thorougly <strong>mundane</strong> task, although Peter found a kind of Zen pleasure in the chore."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> relating to the ordinary world"},{"type":"example","content":"Though we think of the pope as someone always dealing in holy matters, he is also concerned with <strong>mundane</strong> events, such as deciding when to set his alarm each morning."}]},{"id":875,"slug":"nonplussed","front":[{"type":"word","content":"nonplussed"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"nonplussed","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unsure how to act or respond"},{"type":"example","content":"Shirley was totally <strong>nonplussed</strong> when the angry motorist cut her off and then stuck his finger out the window."}]},{"id":876,"slug":"nuance","front":[{"type":"word","content":"nuance"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"nuance","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude"},{"type":"example","content":"Because of the <strong>nuances</strong> involved in this case, I hired an outside consultant to advice us and help."}]},{"id":889,"slug":"opulence","front":[{"type":"word","content":"opulence"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"opulence","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> wealth as evidenced by sumptuous living"},{"type":"example","content":"Russian oligarchs are famous for their <strong>opulence</strong>, living in fancy homes and dining on expensive caviar."}]},{"id":910,"slug":"pejorative","front":[{"type":"word","content":"pejorative"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"pejorative","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> expressing disapproval (usu. refers to a term)"},{"type":"example","content":"Most psychologists object to the <strong>pejorative</strong> term \"shrink\", believing that they expand the human mind, not limit it."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":929,"slug":"placate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"placate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"placate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will of"},{"type":"example","content":"I was able to <strong>placate</strong> the angry mob of students by promising to bring cookies on Monday."}]},{"id":936,"slug":"polemic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"polemic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"polemic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a strong verbal or written attack on someone or something."},{"type":"example","content":"The professor launched into a <strong>polemic</strong>, claiming that Freudian theory was a pack of lies that absolutely destroyed European literary theory."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":939,"slug":"posit","front":[{"type":"word","content":"posit"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"posit","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> assume as fact"},{"type":"example","content":"Initially, Einstein <strong>posited</strong> a repulsive force to balance Gravity, but then rejected that idea as a blunder."}]},{"id":990,"slug":"rebuke","front":[{"type":"word","content":"rebuke"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"rebuke","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> criticize severely or angrily; censure"},{"type":"example","content":"The police chief <strong>rebuked</strong> the two officers whose irresponsible decisions almost led to the deaths of seven innocent by-standers."}]},{"id":1003,"slug":"reproach","front":[{"type":"word","content":"reproach"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"reproach","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to express criticism towards"},{"type":"example","content":"At first, Sarah was going to yell at the boy, but she didn't want to <strong>reproach</strong> him for telling the truth about the situation."}]},{"id":1043,"slug":"specious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"specious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"specious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> based on pretense; deceptively pleasing"},{"type":"example","content":"Almost every image on TV is <strong>specious</strong> and not to be trusted."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> plausible but false"},{"type":"example","content":"He made a career out of <strong>specious</strong> arguments and fictional lab results, but lost his job and reputation when his lies were exposed by an article in The New York Times."}]},{"id":1055,"slug":"stringent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"stringent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"stringent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> demanding strict attention to rules and procedures"},{"type":"example","content":"Most of the students disliked the teacher because of his <strong>stringent</strong> homework policy, but many students would later thank him for demanding so much from them."}]},{"id":1061,"slug":"sullen","front":[{"type":"word","content":"sullen"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"sullen","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> showing a brooding ill humor"},{"type":"example","content":"Herbert took board games too seriously, often appearing <strong>sullen</strong> after losing."}]},{"id":1082,"slug":"timorous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"timorous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"timorous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> timid by nature or revealing fear and nervousness"},{"type":"example","content":"Since this was her first time debating on stage and before an audience, Di's voice was <strong>timorous</strong> and quiet for the first 10 minutes."}]},{"id":1087,"slug":"transient","front":[{"type":"word","content":"transient"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"transient","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lasting a very short time"},{"type":"example","content":"The unpredictable and <strong>transient</strong> nature of deja vu makes it a very difficult phenomenon to study properly."}]},{"id":1099,"slug":"truncate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"truncate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"truncate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> reduce the length of something"},{"type":"example","content":"The soccer game was <strong>truncated</strong> when the monsoon rain began to fall."}]},{"id":1323,"slug":"wordgame-score-estimator","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Score Estimator"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame Score Estimator","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> After taking a practice exam, determine your score on the GRE 340-point scale.  Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"Mike scored a 335 on a practice exam using the <strong>WordGame score estimator</strong>."}]},{"id":6,"slug":"maintain","front":[{"type":"word","content":"maintain"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"maintain","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to assert"},{"type":"example","content":"The scientist <strong>maintained</strong> that the extinction of dinosaurs was most likely brought about by a drastic change in climate."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":16,"slug":"laconic","front":[{"type":"word","content":"laconic"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"laconic","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> one who says very few words"},{"type":"example","content":"While Martha always swooned over the hunky, <strong>laconic</strong> types in romantic comedies, her boyfriends inevitably were very talkative\u2014and not very hunky."}]},{"id":18,"slug":"egregious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"egregious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"egregious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> standing out in a negative way; shockingly bad"},{"type":"example","content":"The dictator\u2019s abuse of human rights was so <strong>egregious</strong> that many world leaders demanded that he be tried in an international court for genocide. "}]},{"id":19,"slug":"innocuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"innocuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"innocuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> harmless and doesn\u2019t produce any ill effects"},{"type":"example","content":"Everyone found Nancy\u2019s banter <strong>innocuous</strong>\u2014except for Mike, who felt like she was intentionally picking on him."}]},{"id":23,"slug":"extant","front":[{"type":"word","content":"extant"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"extant","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> still in existence (usually refers to documents)."},{"type":"example","content":"Despite many bookstores closing, experts predict that some form of book dealing will still be <strong>extant</strong> generations from now."}]},{"id":25,"slug":"auspicious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"auspicious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"auspicious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> favorable, the opposite of sinister"},{"type":"example","content":"Despite an <strong>auspicious</strong> beginning, Mike\u2019s road trip became a series of mishaps, and he was soon stranded and penniless, leaning against his wrecked automobile."}]},{"id":26,"slug":"ambivalent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ambivalent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ambivalent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> mixed or conflicting emotions about something"},{"type":"example","content":"Sam was <strong>ambivalent</strong> about studying for the exam because doing so ate up a lot of his time, yet he was able to improve his analytical skills. "}]},{"id":31,"slug":"involved","front":[{"type":"word","content":"involved"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"involved","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> complicated, and difficult to comprehend"},{"type":"example","content":"The physics lecture became so <strong>involved</strong> that the undergraduate\u2019s eyes glazed over."}]},{"id":40,"slug":"wanting","front":[{"type":"word","content":"wanting"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"wanting","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> lacking"},{"type":"example","content":"She did not think her vocabulary was <strong>wanting</strong>, yet there were so many words that inevitably she found a few she didn't know."}]},{"id":46,"slug":"frugal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"frugal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"frugal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not spending much money (but spending wisely)"},{"type":"example","content":"Monte was no miser, but was simply <strong>frugal</strong>, wisely spending the little that he earned."}]},{"id":47,"slug":"prevaricate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prevaricate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prevaricate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to speak in an evasive way"},{"type":"example","content":"The cynic quipped, \u201cThere is not much variance in politicians; they all seem to <strong>prevaricate</strong>\u201d. "}]},{"id":56,"slug":"enervate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"enervate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"enervate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to sap energy from"},{"type":"example","content":"John preferred to avoid equatorial countries; the intense sun would always leave him <strong>enervated</strong> after he\u2019d spent the day sightseeing."}]},{"id":60,"slug":"equivocal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"equivocal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"equivocal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> confusing or ambiguous"},{"type":"example","content":"The findings of the study were <strong>equivocal</strong>\u2014the two researchers had different opinions on what the results signified."}]},{"id":70,"slug":"galvanize","front":[{"type":"word","content":"galvanize"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"galvanize","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to excite or inspire (someone) to action"},{"type":"example","content":"At mile 23 of his first marathon, Kyle had all but given up, until he noticed his friends and family holding a banner that read, \u201cGo Kyle\u201d; <strong>galvanized</strong>, he broke into a gallop, finishing the last three miles in less than 20 minutes."}]},{"id":76,"slug":"intimate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"intimate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"intimate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to suggest something subtly"},{"type":"example","content":"At first Manfred\u2019s teachers <strong>intimated</strong> to his parents that he was not suited to skip a grade; when his parents protested, teachers explicitly told them that, notwithstanding the boy\u2019s precocity, he was simply too immature to jump to the 6th grade."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":84,"slug":"qualify","front":[{"type":"word","content":"qualify"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"qualify","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to make less severe; to limit (a statement)"},{"type":"example","content":"Chris <strong>qualified</strong> his love for San Francisco, adding he didn't like the weather there as much as he liked the weather in Los Angeles."},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions, but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":87,"slug":"demur","front":[{"type":"word","content":"demur"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"demur","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to object or show reluctance"},{"type":"example","content":"Wallace disliked the cold, so he <strong>demurred</strong> when his friends suggested they go skiing in the Alps."}]},{"id":104,"slug":"artful","front":[{"type":"word","content":"artful"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"artful","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> exhibiting artistic skill"},{"type":"example","content":"Picasso is generally considered the most <strong>artful</strong> member of the Cubist movement."},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> clever in a cunning way"},{"type":"example","content":"Bernie Madoff's <strong>artful</strong> Ponzi scheme stole billions of dollars from investors and is considered the largest financial fraud in U.S. history."}]},{"id":109,"slug":"censure","front":[{"type":"word","content":"censure"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"censure","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to express strong disapproval"},{"type":"example","content":"After being caught in bed with a mistress, the mayor was quickly <strong>censured</strong> by the city council."}]},{"id":156,"slug":"mercurial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"mercurial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"mercurial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> (of a person) prone to unexpected and unpredictable changes in mood"},{"type":"example","content":"The fact that Ella\u2019s moods were as <strong>mercurial</strong> as the weather was problematic for her relationships\u2014it didn\u2019t help that she lived in Chicago."}]},{"id":169,"slug":"parochial","front":[{"type":"word","content":"parochial"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"parochial","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> narrowly restricted in scope or outlook "},{"type":"example","content":"Jasmine was sad to admit it, but her fledgling relationship with Jacob did not work out because his culinary tastes were simply too <strong>parochial</strong>; \"After all,\" she quipped on her blog, \"he considered Chef Boyardee ethnic food.\""},{"type":"note","content":"This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study"}]},{"id":176,"slug":"iconoclast","front":[{"type":"word","content":"iconoclast"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"iconoclast","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> somebody who attacks cherished beliefs or institutions"},{"type":"example","content":"Lady Gaga, in challenging what it means to be clothed, is an <strong>iconoclast</strong> for wearing a \"meat dress\" to a prominent awards show."}]},{"id":182,"slug":"restive","front":[{"type":"word","content":"restive"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"restive","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> restless"},{"type":"example","content":"The crowd grew <strong>restive</strong> as the comedian\u2019s opening jokes fell flat."}]},{"id":185,"slug":"venality","front":[{"type":"word","content":"venality"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"venality","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> the condition of being susceptible to bribes or corruption"},{"type":"example","content":"Even some of the most sacred sporting events are not immune to <strong>venality</strong>, as many of the officials have received substantial bribes to make biased calls."}]},{"id":186,"slug":"betray","front":[{"type":"word","content":"betray"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"betray","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to reveal or make known something, usually unintentionally"},{"type":"example","content":"With the gold medal at stake, the gymnast awaited his turn, his quivering lip <strong>betraying</strong> his intense emotions."}]},{"id":193,"slug":"parsimonious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"parsimonious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"parsimonious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> extremely frugal; miserly"},{"type":"example","content":"Katie is so <strong>parsimonious</strong> that she only buys a pair of socks if all of her other socks have holes in them."}]},{"id":199,"slug":"undermine","front":[{"type":"word","content":"undermine"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"undermine","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to weaken (usually paired with an abstract term)"},{"type":"example","content":"The student <strong>undermined</strong> the teacher\u2019s authority by questioning the teacher\u2019s judgment on numerous occasions."}]},{"id":200,"slug":"disinterested","front":[{"type":"word","content":"disinterested"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"disinterested","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> unbiased; neutral"},{"type":"example","content":"The potential juror knew the defendant, and therefore could not serve on the jury, which must consist only of <strong>disinterested</strong> members."}]},{"id":205,"slug":"belie","front":[{"type":"word","content":"belie"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"belie","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to give a false representation to; misrepresent"},{"type":"example","content":"The smile on her face <strong>belies</strong> the pain she must feel after the death of her husband."}]},{"id":207,"slug":"profligate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"profligate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"profligate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> spending resources recklessly or wastefully"},{"type":"example","content":"The composer Wagner, while living on a limited salary, was so <strong>profligate</strong> as to line all the walls of his apartment with pure silk.   "},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> someone who spends resources recklessly or wastefully"},{"type":"example","content":"Most lottery winners go from being conservative, frugal types to outright <strong>profligates</strong> who blow millions on fast cars, lavish homes, and giant yachts."}]},{"id":210,"slug":"prodigal","front":[{"type":"word","content":"prodigal"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"prodigal","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> rashly or wastefully extravagant"},{"type":"example","content":"Successful professional athletes who do not fall prey to <strong>prodigality</strong> seem to be the exception\u2014most live decadent lives."}]},{"id":218,"slug":"impertinent","front":[{"type":"word","content":"impertinent"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"impertinent","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> being disrespectful; improperly forward or bold"},{"type":"example","content":"Dexter, distraught over losing his pet dachshund, Madeline, found the police officer\u2019s questions <strong>impertinent</strong>\u2014after all, he thought, did she have to pry into such details as to what Madeline\u2019s favorite snack was?"}]},{"id":233,"slug":"venerate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"venerate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"venerate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to respect deeply"},{"type":"example","content":"The professor, despite his sleep-inducing lectures, was <strong>venerated</strong> amongst his colleagues, publishing more papers yearly than all of his peers combined."}]},{"id":237,"slug":"veracious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"veracious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"veracious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> truthful"},{"type":"example","content":"While we elect our leaders in the hope that every word they speak  will be <strong>veracious</strong>, history has shown that such a hope is naive. "}]},{"id":249,"slug":"vindicate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"vindicate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"vindicate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to clear of accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt with supporting arguments or proof"},{"type":"example","content":"Even seven Tour de France wins cannot <strong>vindicate</strong> Lance Armstrong in the eyes of the public--that the athlete used performance enhancing drugs invalidates all those wins. "}]},{"id":252,"slug":"upbraid","front":[{"type":"word","content":"upbraid"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"upbraid","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to reproach; to scold"},{"type":"example","content":"Bob took a risk walking into the \"Students Barbershop\"\u2014in the end he had to <strong>upbraid</strong> the apparently drunk barber for giving him an uneven bowl cut."}]},{"id":263,"slug":"chastise","front":[{"type":"word","content":"chastise"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"chastise","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to reprimand harshly"},{"type":"example","content":"Though <strong>chastised</strong> for eating the snacks for the party, Lawrence shrugged off his mother\u2019s harsh words, and continued to plow through jars of cookies and boxes of donuts."}]},{"id":266,"slug":"castigate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"castigate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"castigate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to reprimand harshly"},{"type":"example","content":"Drill sergeants are known to <strong>castigate</strong> new recruits so mercilessly that the latter often break down during their first week in training."}]},{"id":270,"slug":"commensurate","front":[{"type":"word","content":"commensurate"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"commensurate","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be in proportion or corresponding in degree or amount"},{"type":"example","content":"The convicted felon\u2019s life sentence was <strong>commensurate</strong> with the heinousness of his crime."}]},{"id":271,"slug":"calumny","front":[{"type":"word","content":"calumny"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"calumny","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> making of a false statement meant to injure a person\u2019s reputation"},{"type":"example","content":"With the presidential primaries well under way, the air is thick with <strong>calumny</strong>, and the mud already waist-high."}]},{"id":277,"slug":"amorphous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"amorphous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"amorphous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> shapeless"},{"type":"example","content":"His study plan for the GRE was at best <strong>amorphous</strong>; he would do questions from random pages in any one of seven test prep books. "}]},{"id":279,"slug":"ambiguous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ambiguous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ambiguous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> open to more than one interpretation"},{"type":"example","content":"The coach told his team, \u201cMove towards that side of the field\u201d; because he did not point, his directions were <strong>ambiguous</strong>, and the team had no idea to which side he was referring. "}]},{"id":282,"slug":"aberration","front":[{"type":"word","content":"aberration"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"aberration","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a deviation from what is normal or expected"},{"type":"example","content":"<strong>Aberrations</strong> in climate have become the norm: rarely a week goes by without some meteorological phenomenon making headlines."}]},{"id":286,"slug":"acrimony","front":[{"type":"word","content":"acrimony"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"acrimony","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> bitterness and ill will"},{"type":"example","content":"The <strong>acrimony</strong> between the president and vice-president sent a clear signal to voters: the health of the current administration was imperiled. "}]},{"id":289,"slug":"anomalous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"anomalous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"anomalous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> not normal"},{"type":"example","content":"According to those who do not believe in climate change, the extreme weather over the last five years is simply <strong>anomalous</strong>\u2014daily temperatures should return to their old averages, they believe."}]},{"id":296,"slug":"amenable","front":[{"type":"word","content":"amenable"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"amenable","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> easily persuaded"},{"type":"example","content":"Even though she did not like the outdoors, Shirley was generally <strong>amenable</strong> and so her brother was able to persuade her to go camping. "}]},{"id":311,"slug":"ingenuous","front":[{"type":"word","content":"ingenuous"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"ingenuous","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be na\u00efve and innocent"},{"type":"example","content":"Two-years in Manhattan had changed Jenna from an <strong>ingenuous</strong> girl from the suburbs to a jaded urbanite, unlikely to fall for any ruse, regardless of how elaborate. "}]},{"id":313,"slug":"gregarious","front":[{"type":"word","content":"gregarious"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"gregarious","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>adjective:</strong> to be likely to socialize with others"},{"type":"example","content":"Often we think that great leaders are those who are <strong>gregarious</strong>, always in the middle of a large group of people; yet, as Mahatma Gandhi and many others have shown us, leaders can also be introverted."}]},{"id":316,"slug":"harangue","front":[{"type":"word","content":"harangue"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"harangue","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a long pompous speech; a tirade"},{"type":"example","content":"Dinner at Billy's was more a punishment than a reward, since anyone who sat at the dinner table would have to listen to Billy's father's interminable <strong>harangues</strong> against the government. "},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>verb:</strong> to deliver a long pompous speech or tirade"},{"type":"example","content":"Tired of his parents <strong>haranguing</strong> him about his laziness and lack of initiative, Tyler finally moved out of home at the age of thirty-five. "}]},{"id":327,"slug":"amalgam","front":[{"type":"word","content":"amalgam"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"amalgam","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> a mixture of multiple things"},{"type":"example","content":"The band\u2019s music was an <strong>amalgam</strong> of hip-hop, flamenco and jazz, blending the three styles with surprising results. "}]},{"id":1319,"slug":"wordgame","front":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame"}],"back":[{"type":"word","content":"WordGame","styles":["word-small"]},{"type":"text","content":"<strong>noun:</strong> An online GRE prep product used by tens of thousands of students worldwide. Learn more at <a href='http://wordgame.ducklinglabs.com'>wordgame.ducklinglabs.com</a>"},{"type":"example","content":"After using <strong>WordGame</strong>, Tom improved his GRE score by 8 points and was then admitted into UC Berkeley."}]}]