GRE/GRE-Vocab_trainer.csv
2020-07-23 08:36:41 +02:00

420 KiB
Raw Blame History

11-(o)logystudy,science,theorynoun from para- "contrary to" (see para- 1. ) + doxa "opinion,biology</br> archeologySuffixMSU
22a</br>anwithout</br> not Greek/Latin root Atypical=not typical</br>Atheist =one who does not believe in God</br>Atrophy=wasting away</br>deteriorationasexual</br> amoral</br> anarchy</br> anhydrous</br> Anabaptist</br> anachronism Greek/Latin MSU
33ab</br>abs</br>aapart</br> away from Greek/Latin rootAbnormal=deviating normal</br>Abhor=to hate</br> detest</br>Abominate=to detest</br>Abduct=to take by force</br>Abstruse=hard to understand</br>Abstract=considered apart normal existence</br>abnormal</br> abduct</br> abductor (muscle)</br> abscission Greek/Latin MSU
44abatebecome less in amount or intensity, <u>possibly to nothing</u>verbto cause to diminish in intensity, </br>Syn: subside, die away, die down</br> attenuate=get less, get thinner (without getting to nothing)The <u>Covid pandemic will</u>, with or without successful retaining measures, <u>eventually <b>abate</b></u>...357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
55acsharp</br> bitterGreek/Latin rootGreek: be sharp, rise (out) to a point, pierce. </br>SUBFORMS ARE</br><b>akros</b> = at the end, at the top, outermost; consummate, excellent</br><b>akis</b>= sharp point</br> <b>akros</b>= at the farthest point, highest, outermost</br><b>akantha</b>= thorn</br><b>akme</b>=summit, edge</br><b>oxys</b>=sharp, bitterAcute=sharp, severe</br>Acerbic=sour or astringent in taste</br>Acrid=unpleasantly sharp or bitter</br>Acidic=something that is sour</br> Acrimony-bitter animosity</br>acrylic (liquid originally found in onions that make eyes tear)Root wordsAristotle
66aberrantmarkedly different from an accepted normadj. Latin lit. & fig.,: ab ="off, away " + errare="to wander, stray"". Meaning= to wonder off and fig. "deviation the normal typeWith this <u><b>aberrant</b> mindset</u> there is little chance of success in ethical business, so some choose crooked ways to earn their keep.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
77aberrationa departure from what is normal, usual, or expectednounLatin lit. & fig.,: ab ="off, away " + errare="to wander, stray"". Meaning= to wonder off and fig. "deviation the normal typeThe unexpected results were a <u>statistical <b>aberration<b></u>Least DifficultFT
88abjure to reject or renounceverb Latin abiurare "deny on oath" ab "off, away " (see ab-) + iurare "to swear,</br></br></br></br></br>Syn: relinquish, reject, disavowSince 1986 he has been asking candidates for public office to sign his Taxpayer Protection Pledge, in which they <u><b>abjure</b> tax increases</u> of any sort forever.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
99-able,-ibleable, can do adj., verbcapable</br> agreeable</br> visible SuffixMSU
1010abreastUp to date with the latest news, ideas, or informationadj. Syn: in touch with, plugged intoThese daily updates were designed to help readers <u>keep <b>abreast</b> of the market</u>Least DifficultFT
1111evinceto show or express clearly or to make plain, often something hidden -usually a feelingverbevince has same wood root as "evict" </br>Syn: express, showDespite the shock of receiving such news, she was observed to <b>evince</b> no particular emotion at all.AMBPrepscholar
1212abscondrun away, often taking something or somebody alongverbLatin: ab="off, away " + condere "put together, store" itself com- "together" + -dere "put"The boarding school scholar <u><b>absconded</b> from the schoolgrounds</u> without informing anyone357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
1313abstain to voluntarily refrain from doing somethingverbSyn: refrain, desist, hold backDoctors encourage their patients to <u><b>abstain</b> from smoking</u> cigarettes.357 prevalent GRE wordsFT
1414abetaid, usually in doing something wrong; encourage verbThe verb abet can be used to generally mean encouragement, but people usually expect to see it in relation to some crimeAlexander was on the lookout while his older sister swiped cookies from the cookie jar, thus <b>abetting</b> her mischief.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
1515abyssa deep or seemingly bottomless chasmnounSyn: gorge, ravine, voidPresident Maduro announced that, while his country now <u>stood at the edge of an <b>abyss,</b></u> he would confidently take the country one step forward !Least DifficultFT
1616acumen keen judgment and perception, the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domainnounSyn: astuteness, awareness, acuity </br>Deutsch: Scharfsinn, GeschickHe was unable to run a profitable restaurant because <u>he lacked business <b>acumen</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
1717adtoward</br> toGreek/Latin rootSometimes broader than ad</br> eg (ac</br> al</br> af</br> an</br> ap</br> as</br> at)adhere=stick to</br> adductor=muscle brings hips together </br> adumbrate=to create shodowy(umbra) outlineGreek/Latin MSU
1818-aderesult of action noun, verbblockade</br> lemonade SuffixMSU
1919adeptVery skilled or proficient at something; very good at doing something that is not easyadj.Syn: expert, proficient, accomplishedAn abundance of clever people — <b><u>adept</b> in English law</u> as much as in finance— are employed at well paying banks and hedge fundsLeast DifficultFT
2020admonish scold or to advise firmlyverbThe security guard <b>admonished</b> the customer <u>to wear a face mask</u> in the store during these CoVid times357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
2121adulteratemake impure by adding a foreign or inferior substanceverbWorld class chefs use fresh produce and <u>refuse to <b>adulterate</b> their dishes</u> with canned ingredients.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
2222abhorfill with horror and loathing; horrify; hate verbLatin ab<u>horrere</u> — "to shrink back in <u>horror</u>Taking out the trash is a chore many kids <b>abhor.</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
2323advocate to recommend, support, or advise, to speak, plead, or argue for a cause, or in anothers behalf. (n) -- one who advocateverbn. one who advocatesThe <u>teacher <b>advocated</b> for students with special needs</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
2424aestheticcharacterized by an appreciation of beauty or good tasteadj.ic=nature of, likeThe critics <u>admire the work of art for its <b>aesthetic</b> value</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
2525affectation fake or artificial behavior, often meant to impress or conceal the truthnounThe poor mans <b><u>affectation</b> of wealth</u> did not fool any of the elite at the part357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
2626-ageact of</br> state of</br> collection of suffixadded to root words (often French) to form a noun salvage</br> storage</br> forage SuffixMSU
2727agereact Greek/Latin rootagent</br> agency</br> agenda </br>managerGreek/Latin MSU
2828discriminate1. make a clear distinction;</br>2. make distinctions on basis of category without regard to individual merit; show preference or prejudice verb1. I could not discriminate the different tastes in this complicated dish</br>1b.“Cancel culture” doesnt <b>discriminat</b>e between the sinners and the saints; it takes and it takes and it takes</br>2. Apartheid was a system of racial discrimination1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
2929aggrandizeto make greater, to increase, thus, to exaggerate. enlarge or increase, esp. wealth, power, reputationverbThe <u>arrogant mans self-<b>aggrandizing</b> is so annoying</u> that I refuse to listen to him br357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
3030agog Very eager or curious to hear or see somethingadj.Syn: excited, impatient, in suspenseThe little <u>kids were <b>agog </b>as they waited for Santa Claus</u> to arrive.Least DifficultFT
3131-alrelating to noun, verb, adj.sensual</br> gradual</br> manual</br> natural SuffixMSU
3232alacrityliveliness and eagernessnoun</br>Deutsch: Verve, EifrigkeitAlthough Apple has in the past <u>expanded</u> its production capacities <u>with <b>alacrity</u></b>, it was not always able to meet demand357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
3333-algiapain Greek/Latin rootneuralgia(pain caused by nerve)</br> arthralgia (joint pain)</br> SuffixMSU
3434alleviate to relieve a problem or ease a burdenverb latin: alleviare = to lift up, to raise, to lighten. </br>Deutsch: mildern, erleichternDo good works, <u><b>alleviate</b> the suffering and misery</u>, comfort and refresh the sick</br>Alleviate the effects of the pandemic357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
3535allurethe quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinatingnounSyn: attraction, lure, draw. </br>Deutsch: Reiz, Fazination, AnziehungskraftYet it was the<u> <b>allure</b>of the Model T for millions</u> of consumers that finally drove the horse off the road.Least DifficultFT
3636altruismthe belief in or practice of selfless concern for the well-being of othersnounSyn: selflessness, compassion, goodwill. </br>Deutsch: Uneigennützigkeit, Selbstlosigkeit. </br> Latin/(old french): alter/(altrui) = otherHe was not the first to wonder about <u>the connection between religion and <b>altruism</u></b>Least DifficultFT
3737abhorrentdisgusting, loathsome adj.Latin ab<u>horrere</u> — "to shrink back in <u>horror</u>Taking out the trash is <b>abhorrent</b> for many kids1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
3838amalgamate to combine to or mix togetherverbAmalgan = Hg metal alloy for tooth fillingsThe <u>2 companies <b>amalgamated</b> into one</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
3939ablutionwashing or cleansing of the body, especially as part of religious rite nounLatin: ab "off, away from" + luere "to wash=>wash offBecause <u>each daughters daily <b>ablution</b> seems to take forever</u>, mornings in a house with four teenage girls and one bathroom are unbearable.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
4040ambiguoushaving more than one possible meaningadj.adj. open to multiple interpretations. PIE root *ambhi- "around") + agere "drive, lead, act". </br>Deutsch: unklarPartly cloudy with a chance of rain makes for <u>an <b>ambiguous</b> weather forecast</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
4141ambiguous</br>ambivalentvague; capable of various interpretationsadj.valence = strong, power. being of two minds</br> holding conflicting feelings or attitudes<br>ambivalent is <u>one of the 5 most common mistakes</u> made in the GRE! Not only were the statements <b>ambiguous</b>, but further adding to the confusion was the fact that the author was <b>ambivalent</b> in his opinion. Easily confused wordsMSU
4242ambivalenthaving mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someoneadj.ambivalent is <u>one of the 5 most common mistakes</u> made in the GRE! <br>It does NOT mean indifferent !!!S<br>ynonyms: equivocal, uncertain, unsureRight from the start Yahoo was <b>ambivalent</b> about whether it should be a media or a technology company.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
4343abnegation1. repudiation;the denial and rejection of a doctrine or belief</br>2. self-sacrifice; renouncing your own interests in favor of interests of others nounLatin: ab "off, away from" + negare "to deny</br>Syn: 1. denial</br>2. self-denial, self renunciation1. <b>abnegation</b> of the Holy Trinity by agnostics </br>2. If you wish to be a monk, you must not have a problem with the <u><b>abnegation</b> of worldly possessions</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
4444ambrosialextremely pleasing to the senses, divine (as related to the gods) or delicious (n: ambrosia)adj.The garden with its <u><b>ambrosial</b> and exotic blossoms</u> and fruit trees is a place for relaxation and privacyCommon GREMSU
4545amelioratemake betterverb French, latin: amélioreLonger breaks significantly <b><u>ameliorated</b> the working conditions</u> in the factory. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
4646amenable easily convinced or persuadedadj. French, latin: ad + mener (= to lead (F), to drive cattle (Latin)Group trips with <b><u>amenable</b> people are pleasant</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
4747amphi</br>round</br> Greek/Latin rootamphitheater</br> amphibian</br> Greek/Latin MSU
4848-an,iannative of, pertaining to adj., nounAmerican</br> Martian</br> antediluvian SuffixMSU
4949abrade1. wear away by friction; scrape; </br>2. erode verb</br>Syn 1: scour.</br>2. wear-away, corrade, rub-off1. Using sandpaper, John was able to <b>abrade</b> the rough edges of the wood into a smooth finish.</br>2. The constant battering of the waves </b>abraded</b> the coastline away1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
5050anachronism something old-fashioned, a person or artifact appearing after its own time or out of chronological order (adj: anachronistic)noun Latin/Greek: "against" (see ana-) + khronos "time" (see chrono-)= something appearing in a time period where it does not belongA steam engine in our modern digitised world is nothing more than an <b>anachronism</b>. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
5151analogous comparable, similarnoun Greek: ana "throughout; according to" + logos "ratio, proportionn. </br>Deutsch= entsprechend Noun = appropriate for analogyOne can solve all the other problems in <u>an <b>analagous</b> manner</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
5252-ance,ancyaction, process, state noun, verbassistance</br>allowance</br>defiance SuffixMSU
5353annulDeclare invalidverbSyn: repeal, reverse, rescind<u>The election results were <b>annulled</u></b> after electoral fraud was proven to have taken place.Least DifficultFT
5454anoint to choose for a particular office or positionverbv. to use oil on a person in a religious ceremonyUsing holy oil, the pastor placed his hands on the womans head in order to <b>anoint</b> her357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
5555anomalouspeculiar; unique, contrary to the norm (n: anomaly)adj. Latin/Greek anomalia= "inequality, uneven, irregular" an- "not" + homalos "even<u>His anomalous <b>behaviour</u></b>was a first sign that he had a problem.Common GREMSU
5656anomaly an exception or unusual casenoun Latin/Greek anomalia= "inequality, uneven, irregular" an- "not" + homalos "evenThe students poor performance on the latest test was an <b>anomaly</b> since she had previously earned excellent grades357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
5757-antperforming, agent noun, verbassistant</br>servant SuffixMSU
5858antebefore Greek/Latin rootsometimes anti (when comes Italian)</br> where ante and anti have merged to one word (eg. Antipasti)antedate</br>anteroom</br>antecedent</br>anterior Greek/Latin MSU
5959antediluvianancient; outmoded; adj. latin: ante= before, + deluge = literally "before the flood" (of Noah)For the development of this logo we chose an ancient antedeluvian technique: the traditional Chinese seal. Common GREMSU
6060anthropman Greek/Latin rootanthropology</br>anthropomorphic Greek/Latin MSU
6161antiagainst Greek/Latin rootantipathy</br> antitank</br> anticlimax Greek/Latin MSU
6262abridgecondense; shorten; reduce length of written text verbFrench origin, Abbreviate is the same word directly from Latin. (compare similar "g" from "v" shift in deluge(French) from deluvium(Latin))His agent told him that he needed to <b>abridge</b> some of the content of his novel so that it would be under 400 pages.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
6363antipathy strong dislike or hatred, hostility toward, objection, or aversion tonoun Latin/Greek antipathia : anti- + pathein="to feel, suffer"The students voiced their <u><b>antipathy</b> for homework</u> very loudly.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
6464antithetical contrary to the very nature ofadj.Greek/Latin: anti- + tithenai "to put, place"Some critics say that <u>democracy is <b>antithetical</b> to the Islamic way of life</u>. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
6565apathyLack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. state of total disinterest or unenthusiasmnounSyn: indifference, passivity, ennuiPolitical parties try to engage young voters who are more prone to apathy than older citizens.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
6666abrogateabolish, do away with, or annul, especially by authority adj.ab- "away" and rogare "to propose a law." =>repeal a law, revoke, cancel, abolishA good father would never <b>abrogate</b> his parental responsibilities.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
6767appease to placate, to pacify, to satisfyverb latin, french: a "to" (see ad-) + paix/paicem "peace" = to pacify. Sometimes also means to satisfy (an appetite, a need)These gestures were meant to appease the religious right 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
6868appropriate1. adj. correct, proper, or in good taste.</br>2. v. to take for one's own use. to take possession of, without consent. A polite word for "steal"adj., verbNote how the 2 uses of appropriate have diametrically opposite ethical values. As an adjective it is good, as a verb it is bad. 1. <u>The <b>appropriate</b> use for toothpaste is for brushing teeth</u><br>2. The <u>advancing army <b>appropriated</b> food and other supplies</u> the territories they occupied.HomonymMSU
6969aquawater Greek/Latin rootaquarium</br> aqueous Greek/Latin MSU
7070arbitera person who settles a dispute or has ultimate authority in a matternoun French arbitre= "arbiter, judge" </br>Syn: authority, judge, controllerThe <u><b>arbiter</b> helps the divorcing couple</u> come to terms on a settlementLeast DifficultFT
7171arbitraryBased on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or systemadj.Syn: capricious, random, chanceSince Jakes teacher disliked him, she came up with an arbitrary punishment to help him remember his homewor357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
7272accedeagree; give consent, often at insistence of another; concede verb Latin accedere= "approach or enter upon." It differs slightly from concede, which also means consent, but a more reluctant kind. If you were to concede to your mom's 10 PM curfew rather than accede to it, you'd be doing so against your will.Do not <b>accede</b> too readily to his demands or he will think you are a wimp!1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
7373arbitrateto settle a dispute via mediation (n: arbitration)verb Latin: arbiter "a judge, umpire, mediator". See arbitre (French) = umpire. Verb is arbitratationThe mediator arbitrated the dispute between the two parties.Common GREMSU
7474arcane secret or known only to a select groupadj.Deutsch: geheimnisvoll, Obskur. Latin arcanus "secret, hidden, private, concealedThe traditional healer's arcane rituals confused her.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
7575archaic old-fashioned, adj. no longer in the common usageadj.archaios="old"+ic="nature of, likeIn comparison to portable laptop computers, typewriters are considered archaic357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
7676archaiosancient Greek/Latin rootarcheology</br> archetype</br> archaic</br> archeozoic Greek/Latin MSU
7777archleader</br> first</br> chief Greek/Latin rootmonarchy</br> oligarchy</br> anarchy</br> archetype</br> architect </br> archbishopGreek/Latin MSU
7878arduouscharacterized by effort to the point of exhaustionadj. Latin arduus "high, steep" also figuratively, "difficult, hard to reach,Mountain climbing is fun but quite arduous.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
7979articulate exhibiting considerable communication skills, well-spokenadj., verbDeutsch: 1. redegewandt UND </br>2. ein Gelenk bilden1. His vast vocabulary allowed him to clearly articulate his opinions.</br>2. The lower jaw articulates with the skull.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
8080acclivityupward slope, as of hill nounLatin: ad-: “toward,” + clivus, + “slope.”=> upward slopeAlthough I love biking, <u>I fear a steep <b>acclivity</b></u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
8181artlesssimple and natural; without cunning or deceitadj.Syn: candid, direct, forthright. adj. natural, untrainedWith her artless look, the girl next door looked beautiful even though she had no make-up on and didnt style her hai357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
8282-ary, ery, ory relating to place where or qualityadj., noundictionary</br> bravery</br> dormitory</br> aviary</br> ordinary</br> auditorySuffixMSU
8383ascetic austere or self-denyingadj. Greek: asketes "monk, hermit" + ïc"nature of, likeThe monk leads an ascetic life.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
8484accoladeaward of merit; expression of approval; praise noun French accoler meant to "embrace the neck" which was done as part of a knighthood ceremony.Mrs. Smith is such a great teacher that she is always getting one <b>accolade</b> after another.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
8585assuage to provide relief from an unpleasant feeling. to make less severe; to appease or satisfyverbv. to satisfy a need or appetiteA massage can assuage the soreness in your muscles.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
8686astonishment total surprise, shocknoun Old French estoner "to stun, daze, deafen, astound" Vulgar Latin *extonare, </br> Latin ex "out" + tonare "to thunder"The homeless man looked at me in astonishment when I gave him the bag of money.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
8787-atecause, make verbliquidate</br> segregate SuffixMSU
8888attenuatebecome weaker, in strength, value, or magnitudeverb Latin: ad "to" (see ad-) + tenuare "make thin" </br>Deutsch: dämpfen, abschwächen </br> abate is similar but means "get less, possibly zeroThe contract includes a safeguard clause to <b><u>attenuate</b> possible additional costs demands</u>.Common GREMSU
8989accretiongrowth or increase in size by gradual external addition, fusion, or inclusion nounThe noun accretion implies an accumulation that causes increaseIf you don't floss and brush your teeth, you will have a steady <u><b>accretion</b> of plaque</u> on your teeth.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
9090acerbity1. bitterness of speech and temper; </br>2. sourness or acidness of taste, character, or tone nounLatin: acerbus means “sour-tasting.</br>Syn: bitter, bitterness1. <u>With great <b>acerbity</b></u>, the coach reprimanded his star player for missing curfew. </br>2. The high <b>acerbity</b> of the salad dressing was caused by putting too much vinegar into it.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
9191audacious showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks. extremely bold; fearless, especially said of human behavior (n: audacity)adj.Syn: bold, daring, fearlessThe new CEO <u>pursued <b>audacious</b> initiatives</u> to save the company from bankruptcy. </br> The students audacious remark earned her a seat in afternoon detentio357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
9292audiohear</br> soundGreek/Latin rootaudiophile(someone who likes music)</br> audiometer(something that measures sound)</br> auditory(somewhere where one listens to lectures)Greek/Latin MSU
9393acidulous slightly sour in taste or in manner; sharp; caustic adj.Latin acidulus "slightly sour" a <u>diminutive</u> of acidus</br> acid, acidic, acidulent, sour1. The <b>acidulous</b> drink burned my tongue</br>2. Because the salesclerk spoke to me in an <b>acidulous</b> tone, I chose to take my business elsewhere.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
9494austere severe, unadorned. Having an extremely plain and simple style or appearanceadj. Old French austere "strict, severe, harsh, cruel" </br>Syn: unadorned, subdued, starkInstead of being bleak and austere, hospitals should be warm and cheery.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
9595autoself Greek/Latin rootautomatic</br> automaton</br> auto-immune Greek/Latin MSU
9696avarice greednoun Latin (via French) avaritia "greed, inordinate desireThe third of the 7 deadly Christian sins is avarice - greed357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
9797discursive1. moving from topic to topic without order </br> 2 : proceeding coherently from topic to topic : marked by analytical reasoning adj.Latin discursus "a running about"</br>Note that def 1. and def</br>2. are in essence opposites ito 1. being a random move from point to point and def</br>2. being a structured moving from point to point.</br> Def</br>2. is often in academic context1. I started reading the book, but the a<u> rambling <b>discursive</b> contents</u> soon put me off. </br>2. Her <b>discursive</b> dissertation on Colonial American women was well-argued and well-reasoned, impressing her professors. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
9898aver to assert or allege. to declareverbDeutsch: beteuern, behaupten. </br> Latin ad "to" + verus "true" - later meaning to assert with confidentMany of those who voted for the President, <u>his opponent <b>averred</b></u>, did so because they were rooked by devious lies357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
9999disembodieddivested of a body; ceased to be corporal; incorporeal. adj.dis=Reverse + embody= "a soul or spirit that has been put into a physical form"The magians' trick made it appear that a <b>disembodied</b> head was floating in the air1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
100100banal boring, cliché, repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuseadj.<u>I was bored to death because of his <b>banal</b> conversation</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
101101barefacedunconcealed, shameless, or brazenadj.with face uncovered or shaven;" see bare + face: Thus, "unconcealedIt would be a barefaced lie to claim that there is freedom in VenezuelaCommon GREMSU
102102belie give a false impression (intentional or unintentional) in word, appearance, or deedverbOld English beleogan (Deutsch: belügenJanice hoped her smile would belie the sadness she felt.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
103103benewell</br> favorable Greek/Latin rootbenefit</br> benevolent</br> benefactor</br> beneficent Greek/Latin MSU
104104benign gentle, harmlessadj. Latin "well born" bene "well" + " genus "birth" Grandfather fortunately had a benign form of cancer357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
105105bitwo Greek/Latin rootbi-partisan</br> bisexual</br> biennial</br> binary</br> bicuspid</br> bivalve Greek/Latin MSU
106106biased prejudiced, displaying partialityadj.From French: biais: a slant, a slope, an oblique, later figuratively: giving a bias to, causing to incline to one sideThe bigot admits that he is u><b>biased</b> toward immigrants</u> and stereotypes people according to their race before he ever meets them357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
107107biblebook Greek/Latin rootbibliography</br> Bible</br> bibliophile Greek/Latin MSU
108108biolife Greek/Latin rootbiology</br> biography</br> bio-active Greek/Latin MSU
109109blandishmentspeech or action intended to coax someone into doing something, the use of flattery (sweet-talk) and enticements to persuade somebody gently to do somethingnoun Latin blandiri "flatter, soothe, caress, coax"</br>Deutsch: Schmeichelrei, schönredeEven though the salesman produced every <u><b>blandishment</b></u> he could think of from his <u>bag of tricks</u>, his prospect wouldnt be budged by <u>his flattery</u>.Common GREMSU
110110blighta thing that spoils or damages somethingnounGleicher Wortstamm wie: "bleichen". </br>Syn: affliction, scourge, bane1. Because of the <u>urban <b>blight</u></b> that has taken over the downtown area, many of the stores have relocated.</br>2. The torrential rain <b>blighted</b> the crop.Least DifficultFT
111111blitheshowing a casual and cheerful indifference considered to be callous or improper, carefree and unconcernedadj.Syn: indifferent, unconcerned, blaséThe <u>rebellious teenager was <b>blithe</b> about her failing grades</u>.Least DifficultFT
112112blowharda person who blusters and boasts in an unpleasant waynounSyn: boaster, bragger, show-off<u>The self-promoting <b>blowhard</b> talked</u> about his own accomplishments until his guests were bored to tearsLeast DifficultFT
113113bolstersupport or strengthenverbOld English bolster "bolster, cushion, something stuffed so that it swells up </br>Deutsch: gleiche Urspurng PolsterThe prosecutor worked to find evidence that would <u><b>bolster</b> her case against the defendant</u>.Common GREKaplan
114114bombastpompous speech (adj: bombastic)nounBombast was originally a material of cotton applied to a stuff of soft, loose texture, used to swell a garment. </br>Deutsch= der erste Teil vom Wort "Baumwolle" ist ähnlich wie"Bom" Madam President, Commissioner, we have <u>no need for sentimentality and <b>bombast</b> on such a serious issue</u> Common GREMSU
115115disgorge1. bring up and expel from throat or stomach; vomit</br>2. discharge or pour forth contents from a container verbdis=remove +gorge=throat</br>Syn 1barf, be sick, chuck, throw up, vomit, vomit up</br>disgorge often used for animals</br>Syn2: shed, spill1. llamas <b>disgorge</b> stomach juices to show pique or displeasure. </br>2. The train <b>disgorged</b> its passengers1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
116116bombastic overblown, theatrical. High-sounding but with little meaning; inflated adj.bombast + ic="nature of, like"</br>Syn: pompous, blustering, turgidIf you want to sell your energy drink, then you must use <u><b>bombastic</b> claims</u> in your commercials.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
117117bore1. v. to cause one to lose interest. </br>2. v. to drill a hole. adj. similar to or pertaining to objects that drill holes.verb1. the lecturer repeated everything we already knew and <b>bored</b> all in the class</br>2. Pickleworms <u><b>bore</b> into</u> the fruit of cucumber and squash plants to feed on their flesh.HomonymMSU
118118boycotta punitive ban that forbids relations with certain groupsnounSyn: veto, shunning, rejectionConversely some prominent black women have <u>called for a <b>boycott</b></u>, seeing Mr. Parkers past as a disqualifying staiLeast DifficultFT
119119brazen bold or open to the point of shockingadj.Old English bræsen"of brass, - which then led to brazen-faced (shameless) and then hardened in warIn a <b><u>brazen</b> assault</u>, the gang fired their weapons at the policeman.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
120120breacha lapse, gap or break, as in a fortress wall. To break or break through.noun, verbold English for "break". Most typical uses are "breach of contract" or "breach of peace". But also "breach" of defenses, breach of etiquette The club members never forgot his <u><b>breach</b> of ettiquette</u>.Common GREMSU
121121disinterdig up; unearth; dig up or remove from grave or tomb; bring to public notice verb"inter"is not the std. "inter" here. It is from "in"+ "terre"= earth. Also pronounced differently. They <b>disintered</b> Bonaporte's body to check the theory that he had died of arsenic poisoning.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
122122dismantle1. to take apart, disassemble</br>2. to destroy the integrity or functioning of verbFrench: strip of a cloak, tear down a fortress1. will have to dismantle the engine</br>2. The program was later dismantled due to a lack of funding1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
123123burgeon flourish, bloom,to grow or flourish; a bud or new growth (adj: burgeoning )noun, verbof uncertain originLeft untreated, the garden <u>weeds will <b>burgeon</b> and take over the entire property within days</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
124124burlesque a variety shownounSyn: skit, farce, stripteaseMadame JoJos, a <b>burlesque</b> bar in Londons Soho, had its license revoked in 2014 after two bouncers brandished a baseball bat at a rowdy crLeast DifficultFT
125125buttressa support usually of stone or bricknoun, verb old FrenchHer good arguments <u><b>buttressed</b> her credibility</u>Common GREMSU
126126cacoBad Greek/Latin root PIE Kaka=to defecatecacophony (bad sound)<br> cacography(bad handwriting)<br> cacostocracy(government by the worst in society)Greek/Latin MSU
127127disputatiousargumentative; fond of arguing; inclined to dispute adj.Same root word origin as "dispute".</br>This was a strangely obtuse debate between two <b>disputatious old lawyers</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
128128cacophony loud and chaotic noise. a harsh, discordant mixture of soundsnounSyn: racket, noise, clamorThe <b>cacophony</b> of the middle school band warming up was nearly <u>unbearable for the audience</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
129129cadgeto get something by taking advantage of someoneverb old English "to get by begging"By flirting with the bartender, the pretty girl was able to <u><b>cadge</b> free drinks</u>.Common GREMSU
130130calumny lie or slander, often to damage somone's reputationnoun Old French calomnie/Latin calumnia "trickery, subterfuge, misrepresentation, malicious chargeThe film was supposed to be a true story, but in fact it was a huge <u><b>calumny</b> to tarnish the stars reputation</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
131131candid honest, openadj.When questioned, she <u>held nothing back and gave a <b>candid <b>/response</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
132132canon accepted rules and tenets of a disciplinenoun"canon written with 1 "n" - unlike the one you shoot cannonballs! <br> n. sacred works/scripture;<br> in this sense it is also used to refer to notable literary and artistic works of a culture or disciplineAt the same time, <u><b>canon</b> law is part of the temporal legal system</u>, and bishops are appointed jointly by the Prime Minister and the head of state357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
133133capacity the capability to perform a particular action or fulfill a given functionnounn. a particular position or role she served in an <u>advisory <b>capacity</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
134134capricean impulsive actnounFrench caprice="whim"Because John <u>did not think before acting,</u> he could spend years in prison for a silly <b>caprice.</b>Common GREMSU
135135acrimoniousbitter and sharp in language, tone, or manner adj.But while acrid is still most commonly used in a literal sense (as in "an acrid odor"), acrimonious is now used to describe things like angry and bitter speeches or debates.Your <u><b>acrimonious</b> arguments</u> about religion only sever friendships.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
136136acrimonyanimosity, sharp or bitter hatred noun</br>Syn acerbity, bitterness, jaundice, tartness, thorninessAfter a drawn-out court case, there was <u>a lingering <b>acrimony</b></u> stirred up during the trial1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
137137castigate to scold or berate strongly. to chastise or criticize severelyverbLatin castigatus"to correct, set right; purify; chastise, punish" from castus "pure" + agere "to doThe boss <u>misused performance reviews</u> to <b>castigate</b> his employees357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
138138adagean old saying, that has obtained credit by long use nounSyn: byword, proverb, sawMoms and dads love <b>adages</b> such as "early to bed, early to rise" and "an apple a day keeps the doctor away."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
139139addlemuddle; drive crazy; become confused verbaddle like muddleSmoking marijuana can <u><b>addle</b> your brain</u> and make it difficult for you to concentrate1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
140140adjudicate1. hear and settle a case by judicial procedure </br>2. bring to an end; settle conclusively by decision verbLatin: ad=toward + judge=judge torward (someone)1. </br>2. The father <b>adjudicated</b> when the sons were quarreling over their inheritance”1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
141141caustic corrosive. capable of dissolving by chemical action; highly critical:adj. bitterly sarcasticadj. + ic="nature of, like"</br>His <b><u>caustic</b> remarks</u> spoiled the mood of the party357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
142142censure to express intense condemnation, an official reprimandverb French, censurer. </br>Do not confuse with "censor"(=prevent publication)</br> Do not confuse with "sensor"(=something that senses/measures")Since the marine left base without permission, he is <u>expecting both a censure and punishment</u> when he returns tomorrow.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
143143chauvinist someone who believes prejudicially that their own group is the superior one, exaggerated, blind nationalism; patriotism degenerated into a vicenounFrench: chauvinisme, after behaviour of N. Chauvin, soldier of Napoleon who idolized Napoleon long after he was history<u>His sister was <b>chauvinist</b> when it comes to feminism</u>, as she gets both angry and irritated when someone opposes her point of view357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
144144chicanerydeception by trickery, often to achieve a political, financial, or legal purposenoun French chicanerie "trickery" Middle French chicaner "to pettifog, quibble"<u>Instead</u> of being <u>truthful</u> on his campaign for sheriff, <u>he resorted to <b>chicanery</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
145145adjure1. command or enjoin solemnly, as under oath, </br>2. ask with a more demanding tone, appeal to or entreat earnestly; verbSyn1 burden, charge, saddle </br>Syn2: beseech, bid, conjure, entreat, press1. She <u><b>adjured</b> him to present the events</u> precisely as he witnessed them.</br>2. I <b>adjure</b> each and every one of you to never disclose to anyone what has been spoken here today. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
146146chorale </br> corraln. a type of hymn (sung) or a choir </br>n. a fenced enclosure for cattle or horses. v. to herd cattle or horses (or people) into one placenounCorral is of Spanish origin. The protective wide circle of ox-wagons called laager by the Afrikaners was called corral by the Americans travelling West in their wagons. <u>Maimie always <b>corraled</b> Marnie into serving as secretary</u> for the meetings. </br>The <b>chorale</b> originated when Martin Luther translated <u>sacred songs into the vernacular language</u> HomophoneMSU
147147chronic(Of a problem) long lasting and difficult to eradicateadj.Greek: chronos=time+ic=nature of/like=>lasting a long time</br>Syn: constant, continuing, persistent Pessimists think the productivity problem is <b>chronic</b>. Least DifficultFT
148148chronological ordered by timeadj.Latin: chrono=time+logo=theory, science, doctrine+ ic/ical=word-forming element making adj.sHe went through the events in chronological order357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
149149-cianhaving a specific skill noun magician</br> optician</br> physician SuffixMSU
150150cidekill Greek/Latin rootKiller of ( ): homicide</br> parricide(parents)</br> germicidal</br> ecocide</br> suicide</br> fungicide</br> senicide (old men)</br> libricide(old books)</br> legicide(laws)</br> uxoricide(wife)</br> filicide(son/daughter)</br> floricide(flowers)</br> infanticide(infants)</br> genocide(race/kind)</br> Greek/Latin MSU
151151adornmentembellishment; decoration; something that beautifies or adorns; ornament nounLatin root is adornare, "equip or embellish."A small <b>adornment</b> of parsley was added to the chefs dish to make it look better.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
152152adroitskillful and adept under pressing conditions adj.French :droit: "right" a=to + droit=right =>do it right", "properly"</br> Deutsch Wortstamm: rechtens (aber nicht ganz die gleiche Bedeutung)</br>Ant:maladroitThe child was an <b>adroit</b> pianist at an early age1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
153153codaa concluding event, remark or musical compositionnounSyn: ending, finaleThe final section of the song was <u>sealed with a <b>coda</u></b> that sounded like an entirely different melody.Least DifficultFT
154154cogentpowerfully persuasive, very clear and easy for the mind to accept and believeadj. French/Latin: com=with + agere=action, ie. Co-alignment, compellingThe politician's <u>clear <b>cogent</b> argument</u> against the war won him many votes in the election357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
155155commensuratecorresponding in size or degree or extentadj. Latin com "with, together" + mensuratus, pp mensurare "to measure => with measure </br>Deutsch: mit MassYou will get a <u>salary increase <b>commensurate</b> with</u> your additional responsibilities and work357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
156156adumbrate1. give hint or indication of something; disclose partially or guardedly; </br>2. summarize; </br>3. overshadow; shade verbLatin: ad "to" + umbrare=> "to cast in shadow", to foreshadow, to cast a shadow of something bigger</br>umreißen, ankündigen, vorausahnen lassen, skizzieren 1. The scene where the princess dreams of the vampire <u><b>adumbrates</b> her later discovery</u> that her little brother is, in fact, a vampire."</br>2. The purpose of the summary is to <u><b>adumbrate</b> the movies plot</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
157157compelling captivating, very persuasiveadj.Latin com "with, together" + pellere "to drive"The jury seemed moved by the lawyers <u><b>compelling</b> argument</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
158158complaisantshowing a cheerful willingness to do favors for othersadj.com=with, plaisant=pleasure/pleasingBecause <u>John is too <b>complaisant</b> in his willingness to please others</u>, people often take advantage of himCommon GREMSU
159159comprehensive complete and thoroughadj.com=with/together, preandre=seize/holdHeathers <b><u>comprehensive</b> workout helps tone all of the muscles</u> in her bod357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
160160affableeasily approachable; warmly friendly adj.Latin affābilis="kind, friendly.</br>Syn: genial, hospitable, and graciousShe welcomed her guests with an <u><b>affable</b> smile</u>. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
161161conflagration1. a great fire <br>2. a conflict or warnouncon=with/togethe+ =flagrare "to burn, blaze, glow1. The combustion products such as smoke,heat and hot <b>conflagration</b> gases generated during a <u>fire</u> rise upwards</br>2. It seems as though the <u><b>conflagration</b> in the Middle East</u> has been going on for centuries Common GREMSU
162162agnosticone who is skeptical of existence of a god or any ultimate reality nounGreek: a-, = "not" + "gnostos", "known"=>doesn't know whether God existsJills <u><b>agnostic</b> beliefs had her wondering</u> if there was a deity who guided her life.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
163163confound to confuse or astonish. Prove (a theory, expectation, or prediction) wrongverbSyn: contradict, counter, go againstYet in another sense, <u>the Fed has <b>confounded</b> predictions</u>—at least, those it made itself357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
164164connoisseur an expert in a particular subject matter area, usually relating to the fine arts or cultural pursuitsnoun French. Connaisseur (with an "a") is a specialist, and connoisseur (with an "o") is "higher ranked", as they are a conaisseur AND their opinions are valued !Since you are <u>a wine <b>connoisseur</b></u>, I thought I would ask your opinion on the best wines for my dinner party357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
165165consequential as a result of, "following as an effect or result"adj.con=with a sequence </br>adj. significant or memorableThe <u><b>consequential damages</b></u> of the critical reactor breaking down were significant, as the entire plant had to shut for months357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
166166constitutusstand Greek/Latin rootconstitution</br> statute Greek/Latin MSU
167167construe to interpretverbsame latin/French origin as "construct", ie. With/together + piling up= interpretAlthough I tried to pay you a compliment, you have decided to <u><b>construe</b> my words</u> as an insult357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
168168consumption utilization (esp. of a resource)nounExcessive <u>alcohol consumption</u> has been linked to liver damage357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
169169contend assert or claimverb old French comptendre: engage in rivalry, competeIn order to obtain custody of her children in the divorce, Bridgett will <b>contend</b> nasty things about her husband357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
170170contentious controversial, causing or likely to cause an argumentadj. Latin contentiosus "obstinate, quarrelsomeAs a rule, I tend to <u>avoid <b>contentious</b> topics of conversation</u> which might lead to arguments357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
171171allurementtemptation; enticement; any real or apparent good held forth, or operating, as a motive to action noun<b>allure</b> is the power to attract, entice; the quality causing attraction while</br> <b>allurement</b> is attractiveness; appeal, charisma.Its <b><u>allurements</b> draw you in</u>, then the trap door slams shut and it devours you.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
172172convoluted roundabout, not straightforwardadj. Latin: to roll together" com "with, together" (see con-) + volvere "to roll"My head began to hurt as I listened to the professors <b>convolute</b> spee357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
173173copious plentiful or abundantadj. Latin: "abundant, plentiful"<u>Take <b>copious</b> notes in class</u> so that you have plenty of review material for the test.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
174174corporalof the body: "corporal punishment." a non-commissioned officer ranked between a sergeant and a private.adj.1. corporal punishment will still in use during my father's school days. Common GREMSU
175175corporealof or having to do with material, as opposed to spiritual; tangible. (In older writings, coeporeal could be a synonym for corporal. This usage is no longer common)adj.Latin: "of a material or physical nature, not mental or spiritual" with adjectival suffix -al preceded by corpus "body" (living or dead),As Jack reached for <u>the ghost</u>, he realized it <u>was not <b>corporeal</b></u> when his hands went straight through the shape.Common GREMSU
176176corpusbody Greek/Latin rootcorpse</br> corporal punishment</br> corpus callosum Greek/Latin MSU
177177corroborateto strengthen or support: (n: corroboration)verb Latin: form of com "with, together" + roborare "to make strong" robur, robus "strength" - same root as robustThe scientist was able to corroborate his hypothesis with data gathered from multiple sources. The witness corroborted his story.Common GREMSU
178178corroborate </br> collaborateIt's "L" like Royalty…..don't ge"L" and "R" confusedverbDuring the president's election, the 2 scientists collaborated together to find facts to corrobarate their joint theory. Easily confused wordsMSU
179179cosmopolitan of or relating to a large city or massive urban areaadj.belonging to all parts of the world, limited to no place or society. </br>adj. sophisticatedWith its hugely diverse population, <u>New York City is considered one of the most <b>cosmopolitan</b></u> cities in the world357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
180180covet to desire something that does not belong to youverbold French: to desire or wish for inordinately or without regard for the rights of others,In the book by Dickens, the miser did <u>nothing but <b>covet</b> money</u></br>10th commandment: You shall not <b>covet</b> your neighbor's wife,..etc357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
181181cracyrule Greek/Latin rootdemocracy</br> theocracy</br> technocracy Greek/Latin MSU
182182craftn. skillnounas adjective it means "cunning"- a crafty pickpocketThe retired teacher is looking for a new craft to take up since she is good at making things with her hands357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
183183allusionan indirect reference nounLatin: ad "to" + ludere "to play"=>a playing with </br>Deutsch: AnspielungPink! included an <b>allusion</b> about her ex-boyfriend in her song.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
184184craven cowardly to the point of being shamefuladj. Latin/French where originally cravant initially ="defeated, vanquished, overcome, conquered", but changing later to cowardlyBecause police officers must be fearless, <u><b>craven</b> people should not apply for positions in law enforcement</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
185185credence belief or trustnoun Medieval Latin credentia "belief". "credentials", "credit", all have the same rootsThe crazy mans UFO story was so <u>ridiculous that not a single person gave it any <b>credence</u>.</357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
186186credbelief Greek/Latin rootcredence=belief that something is true or valid</br>credulous=believing things too easily</br> gullible</br>incredible=unbelievable</br>incredulous=skeptical</br> disbelievingGreek/Latin MSU
187187amblemoving at an easy pace; walk slowly or leisurely noun Latin ambulare= "to walk about" as in ambulatory, ambulance</br>sDeutsch: chlendernI like to <b>amble</b> through the old Town of Ravensburg1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
188188-cule, ling very small adj., noun molecule</br> miniscule</br> SuffixMSU
189189culpabledeserving of blame (n: culpability)adj. Old French coupableThe judge found the man culpable of the crime and sentenced him to life in prisonCommon GREMSU
190190-cy action, function noun advocacy</br> hesitancy</br> prophecy</br> normalcy SuffixMSU
191191dearthlack, scarcitynoun Old English deore "precious, costly" (see dear) + abstract noun suffix -thThe prosecutor complained about the dearth of concrete evidence against the suspect.Common GREMSU
192192decorumappropriate manners and conductnounsame root at décoNot understanding decorum at a formal dinner, Jake ate his salad with his dinner fork357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
193193amenity1. a feature that contributes to comfort or value.</br>2. the overall pleasantness that results from all those cool features. noun1. The walk-in closet was <u>my favorite <b>amenity</b></u> in the apartment.</br>2. he discovered the amenities of reading at an early age”1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
194194deferencecourteous regard for people's feelingsnoun French déférence (16c.), défé"to yield, comply He held his tongue in deference to his father. (n: deferential. v. defer)357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
195195deflect divert or cause to ricochetverbde=away + flect = bendHe deflected the attack with a defty response357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
196196deft skill, acumen, manual dexterityadj.unclear originThe deft musician was able to play the harmonica and the piano at the same time.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
197197deignDo something that one considers to be beneath one's dignityverbSyn: come down one's high horseIf the Senate <b><u>deigns</b> to consider and confirm</u> a nominee, do not expect changes overnight.Least DifficultFT
198198delineate 1. to describe very accurately, to clearly describe or portray something</br>2. to clearly demarcate a boundary, to render an outlineverbLatin: de- "completely"+ lineare "draw lines,1. <u>While I cannot <b>delineate</b></u> the style of car she drove, <u>I can</u> give you the license plate number. </br>2. <u>Jason put a fence up to <b>delineate</b> his property</u> from his neighbor357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
199199demospeople Greek/Latin rootdemocracy</br> demographic Greek/Latin MSU
200200analgesic a medicine that takes away physical pain (but without loss of consciousness, like an anaesthetic may be) adj.Aspirin is not only a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), but primarily an <b>analgesic</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
201201denigrateattack the good name and reputation of someoneverbLatin denigratus "to blacken; to defame" de- "completely" + nigr-, stem of niger "black" During the election, the crooked <u>politician did everything in his power to <b>denigrate</b> his rival</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
202202depictto show, create a picture of.verb Latin depictus, past participle of depingere "to portray, paint, sketch; describe, imagine" de "down" (see de-) + pingere "to paint"<u>The drawings</u> on the cave walls <b>depict</b> the lives of the earliest men on the planet.Common GREMSU
203203deprecate (deprecation) </br> depreciate (depreciation)to deprecate is “to disapprove,verb </br>“self-deprecating,” it means, “to belittle.” </br> In the world of computing, deprecated means “phased out” or “soon to be phased out.” </br>Depreciate is primarily a financial term(Deutsch=Abschreibung), generally loss of book value, primWhen John heard that Jane climbed Mt. Everest, he <u><b>deprecated</b> her achievement</u> and said it wasn't more than a walk up a hill. </br>The softwarehad already had <u>its full book value <b>depreciated</b></u> in the finance departmentEasily confused wordsMSU
204204deprecationdisapproval, earnest expression of feeling againstnounHas the word "Pray" in its origins, in the sense "pray, do not"</br>Do NOT confuse with deprecIation, a finance termIngrid is well-known for her self-deprecation, as she constantly looks down on herself and harshly judges all of her actions.Common GREMSU
205205depredationthe act of preying upon or plundering. To act as a predator. nounFrench/latin: de- "thoroughly" (see de-) + praedari "to plunder" literally "to make prey of" praeda "prey"The <u><b>depredations</b> of the invaders demoralized</u> the population.Common GREMSU
206206ancillaryserving as aid or accessory; auxiliary adj.He asked to ensure that enough <u>nursing and <b>ancillary</b> staff</u> to run 155 ICU beds be made available1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
207207derivativea compound obtained from another compoundadj.Applies to words (words derive a parent) to chemistry (a product derives another one) and to mathematicsThe new antibiotic is listed as a <b>derivative</b> of penicillin because it was produced from a penicillin base.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
208208descryto make clear, to sayverbDeutsch: entdecken, wahrnehmen<u>If you <b>descry</b> illegal content</u> on the linked websites, we beg for notificationCommon GREMSU
209209animusfeeling of animosity nounSame word root as "animosity"Obama felt that Trump had a bizarre personal <b>animus</b> against him, all rooted in the birther lie, until he realised Trump himself was bizarre.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
210210desiccate1. to dry out completely </br>2. to suck out the vitality and passionverb de- "thoroughly" (see de-) + siccare "to dry"</br>Not the spelling, with double "c"1. One should use sliced fruits within one day as the insides quickly <b>desiccate.</b> </br>2. The professional soccer player became <u><b>desiccated</b> after being in a car accident that left him in a coma</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
211211desultorymarked by lack of definite plan, purpose, or enthusiasmadj.French: de:-about + sultor(sauter)-jump=>jump about</br>Deutsch: 1. )halbherzig ODER</br>2. )herumspringend1. )The bronze medal winner <u>managed a <b>desultory</b> smile</u>. </br>2. )The students were confused by the teachers desultory lecture which seemed to have no real foc357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
212212detachment objectivity or aloofness, devoid of interest or feelingsnoun French détachement (17c.), détacher (see detach). Meanin"that which is detached", also in a military sense. </br>Deutsch: AblösunThe womans air of detachment made the police question her involvement in her husbands de357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
213213determinant a strong factor in an outcomenounLatin: de= "off" + terminare "to mark the end or boundary</br>Deutsch: BestimmungsfaktorThe key determinant for social security deductions are the conditions at year end 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
214214ditwo</br> double Greek/Latin rootdeductions are the conditions on 31 December of the tax period or at the end of the tax liability.Greek/Latin MSU
215215diaacross</br> through Greek/Latin rootdiagonal</br> dialectic</br> dialogue</br> diagnosis Greek/Latin MSU
216216antedatebe earlier in time; go back further verbLatin: ante=earlier + date=time=> be earlier in time.</br> antecede, forego, forgo, precede, predateWorld War I <b>antedates</b> World War II.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
217217anthologybook of literary selections by various authors nounThe poetry club published an <u><b>anthology</b> of their favorite poems</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
218218didactic educational or with an instructive purpose; often includes an element of moralizingadj.French didactique, </br> Latinized form of Greek didaktikos "apt at teaching</br>didact=teach +ic=nature of, likeBecause Mrs. Jones came up with lessons that were <u>not only <b>didactic</b> but also fun</u>, everyone thought she was a fantastic teacher.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
219219die1. v. to cease to live. </br>2. n. a mold used for shaping pieces of metal for incorporation into tools or other productsverb, noun1. sterben</br>2. Deutsch = Pressform, Modell, 1. the old man died</br>2. These car models are so similar that the <u>same <b>die </b> can be used to make most body parts</u>, such as the doors, hood, roof, and trunk cover.HomonymMSU
220220antithesisthe total opposite of an object or person; contrast; nounGreek antithesis "opposition, resistance"In the movie, Roberts character of an abusive husband is the <b>antithesis</b> of the caring spouse the actor really is1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
221221diffident shy, timid, or reserved due to a lack of confidenceadj. Latin dis- "away" (see dis-) + fidere "to trust"=>"to mistrust, lack confidence"Because <u>she felt unattractive, Mary was <b>diffident</b> and kept to herself</u> at parties.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
222222diffident </br> different </br> deference<b>diffident</b> = shy, timid, or reserved due to a lack of confidence and </br><b>deference</b> is respect for others. adj.If you <u>treat others with <b>deference</b></u>, then people will respect you back, and <u>acting <b>differently</b></u> will not lead to <u>shy <b>diffidence</b></u>Easily confused wordsMSU
223223antlerentire horn, or any branch of the horn nounAs the family name is Bocken, my father is thinking of putting an <b>antler</b> of a mountain goat on the wall.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
224224dirge1. funeral or mourning lament.</br>2. any sad, slow songnounIn the catholic burial mass, the first answer sung is Psalms v.9, which begins in Latin: "<b>Dirige</b>, Domine, Deus meus, in conspectu tuo viam meam ("Direct, O Lord, my God, my way in thy sight"). So, <b>Dirge<b/> is a bastardization of first word of Psalm v.9 and summarizes whole tone, sentence and massElton John <u>wrote and sang the <b>dirge</b> at Lady Di's funeral</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
225225disnot</br> apart, off, away </br>the opposite of</br>completely</br>in every directionGreek/Latin rootdisperse</br> disinherit</br> disenfranchise</br> distend Greek/Latin MSU
226226aphasialoss of speech (or ability to read) due to injury or illness nounGreek ; a- "without" + phasis "utterance=>inability to speakCees suffered from <u>mild <b>aphesia</b> and had difficulty speaking</u> after his serious bicycle accident1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
227227disabusefree somebody from an erroneous beliefverbdis="to free, apart, off"+ "mistake, fallacy, or deception"We had to <u><b>disabuse</b> her of the notion</u> that she was invited.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
228228discern to perceive, to recognize the difference or distinction between two or more thingsverb dis- "off, away" + cernere "distinguish, separate, siftBecause Bradley wore sun glasses, I could not discern whether or not his eyes were red.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
229229discomfort (n) </br> discomfit (vt)1. <b>discomfort</b> is a noun the lack of ease or comfort whereas <br>2. <b>discom<u>fit</u></b> is a verb and the act of disconcerting or making uncomfortable for <b>others</b>or to othernoun, verbTo discomfit someone is to make them feel uncomfortable or upset. An easy way to discomfit another person is to use the age-old, childish trick of ignoring them.1. I sat there in <b>discomfort</b><br>2. He was <b>discomfited</b> with the impolite behaviour of the visitorEasily confused wordsMSU
230230discrepancy a difference or inconsistency especially between things that should be the samenoundis= "apart, off" + crepare="to rattle, crack"The police were <u>confused by the <b>discrepancy</b> between</u> the testimonies of the two witnesses who saw the same event.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
231231disingenuousnot candid or sincere, generally by pretending one knows less than one actually doesadj.from dis- "opposite of" + ingenuous(=naïve)</br>Syn: dishonest, deceitful, duplicitousThe detective was a <b><u>disingenuous</b> man who played dumb to trick others</u> into confessingLeast DifficultFT
232232disinterested / uninterested1. disinterested = objective, unbiased, unaffected by concern for one's own welfare</br>2. uninterested = not interestedadj.if you're <b>disinterested</b>, you're unbiased; you're out of the loop. <br>2. But if you're <b>uninterested</b>, you don't give a hoot; you're bored.1. The referee should be <b><u>disinterested</b>in which team wins the game</u>, but<br> <u>2. grandmother was <b>uninterested</b> in who won the football game</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
233233disparage to belittleverbOriginally meant to marry below one's rank, ie. Dis=away + parage=rank. Not it means to push somone lower, to belittle them<u>I cannot believe that you belittle and <b>disparage</b> people</u> who have little in common with you.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
234234disparagingbelittling (n: disparagement. v. disparage)adj.His <u>mother's <b>disparaging</b> comments</u> made him feel awfulCommon GREMSU
235235disparate dissimilar to such a degree that comparison is not possibleadj. Latin disparatus, dis- "apart" + parare "get ready, prepare ie. => Dislike in kindThe identical twins have <u>such <b>disparate</b> personalities</u> that its impossible to get them confused. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
236236aphorismdefinition or concise statement of principle; tersely phrased statement of truth or opinion. noun1a. "People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones" is a good example of an <b>aphorism.</b>1b.</br>“Time is money” is not just a hackneyed aphorism1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
237237dispassionate impartial or cool; calm; objective; unbiasedadj.from dis- "the opposite of" + passionateLiza is a <u><b>dispassionate</b> person who rarely displays her emotions</u> to others357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
238238disregard to ignore or pay no attention toverbdis= away + regard=look atIf you <u><b>disregard</b> the red light</u> at an intersection you are not only breaking the law but also endangering your life357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
239239apiaryplace where bees and beehives are kept, especially where bees are raised for their honey nounSyn:beehouseAlthough he spent many hours daily in the <b>apiary</b>, he was seldom stung by a bee.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
240240dissemble to mislead or conceal the truth, esp. with respect to ones motives. to conceal one's real motive, to feignverb Latin dissimulare "make unlike, conceal, disguise" dis- "completely" (see dis-) + simulare "to make like, imitate, copy,Rather than answer the reporters questions directly, <u>the politician chose to mislead and <b>dissembled</b> his responses</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
241241dissemble </br> disassembleDisassemble is to take something apart, like an old car motor, but dissemble is sneaky — it means to hide your true self,to lie to misrepresent oneself - like the guy who said he was a mechanic but had never actually seen a motor, much less put one back togetheadj., verbdis= reverse +assemble+collect in one place=> take aprt</br></br> dis=not + semble=appear=>not true representationthe word is that these are Chinese actors who have been hired to resemble and dissemble North Korean fans.Easily confused wordsMSU
242242disseminate to spread widely (esp. information)verbLatin: dis- "in every direction" (see dis-) + seminare "to plant, propagate" from semen (genitive seminis) "seed"The pollen will <b><u>disseminate</b> into</u> the region by Thursday, causing further burdens for allergy sufferers.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
243243dissonancedisagreeable sounds, a clash between two elements that dont blend well, a lack of harmony or agreement, nounLatin: dissonantem"differ in sound", ie lack of harmonyThe school boards meeting lasted for hours due to the length debate fueled by dissonance among opinion357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
244244diverge to split apart, esp. a road or pathverbLaitin: assimilated form of dis- "apart" + vergere "to bend, turn, tend toward"</br> opposite of convergeKnowing that everyone would <b>diverge</b> after graduation, she was worried that she would not see her friends anymore.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
245245docileReady to accept control or instruction; submissiveadj. Latin : docilis "easily taught"</br> Syn: compliant, obedient, pliant<b>Docile</b> with humans, dogs are fierce defenders of territory and their young.Least DifficultFT
246246doffRemove (an item of clothing)verbSyn: lay hold of, take hold ofTo <u>don shoes, to <b>doff</b> them,</u> or even to throw them at somebody?Least DifficultFT
247247doggedstubborn or determinedadj."having the qualities of a (bull)dog", in a negative sense<u>Her <b>dogged</b> pursuit</u> of the degree eventually paid off.Common GREMSU
248248dogma the official beliefs or tenets of particular sect or groupnounLatin: dogma "philosophical tenet,Although Jake considered himself to be quite religious, <u>he did not blindly follow the <b>dogma</b> of the church</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
249249dogmaticrelying upon doctrine or dogma, as opposed to evidenceadj.dogma + -ic (= nature of, like)The <u><b>dogmatic</b> leftist thought all rich people to be evil</u>Common GREMSU
250250-domquality, realm, officenoun freedom</br> kingdom</br> wisdom</br> thralldom SuffixMSU
251251dominuslord </br> masterGreek/Latin rootdominant</br> dominion Greek/Latin MSU
252252dotebe extremely and uncritically fond ofverbSyn: adore, love dearly, be devoted toFalling birth-rates allowed parents to dote on fewer children, who were increasingly likely to go to school.Least DifficultFT
253253dupe to deceive or foolverbFrench, duperMy brother is a schemer who is always trying to dupe people out of their money.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
254254dynasthaibe able Greek/Latin rootdynamic</br> dynamo</br> dynasty</br> dynamite Greek/Latin MSU
255255disquietmake uneasy or anxious; trouble verbLatin: dis, "lack of" or "not"+ quietus, "calm, at rest, or free from exertion."=>lack of calmThe next few days were <b>disquieting</b> for the country, especially after the premier was transferred to intensive care.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
256256eccentric quirky or unusualadj. Greek astronomy referring to planet orbitals: ekkentros "out of the center" (as opposed to concentric), ek "out" (see ex-) + kentron "center"+ ic=nature of, like. Meaning now modified to "odd or whimsical person"The <u><b>eccentric</b> artist</u> was quite happy to walk around with green hair357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
257257apocryphaluntrue; of questionable authorship or authenticity; erroneous; fictitious adj.Originally, apocryphal was reserved for religious writings that were not included in the Torah or the New Testament as their text divinity was not certain.The old man often shared <b><u>apocryphal</b> ghost stories</u> with anyone who would listen.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
258258eclecticselecting what seems best of various styles or ideasadj.ic=nature of, like Many modern decorators prefer an eclectic style. (n: eclecticism)357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
259259-eeone who receives the action noun employee</br> nominee</br> refugee SuffixMSU
260260effect </br> affectaffect is usually a verb, and it means to impact or change. Effect is usually a noun, an effect is the result of a change. So, if A affects B, B experiences the effect of As actionoun, verbaffect is a verb and effect is a noun. At least (spoiler alert!), most of the time. Heres a mnemonic: A is for action. Verbs are about action. Affect starts with an A, so its a verb. Also, Think of the common phrase cause and effect. Cause ends with an E, and effect begins with an E. So not only does a cause lead to an effect, but also causes E leads to effects E, giving you a handy noun bridge to step across and remember which spellingThe most <u>common side <b>effects</b></u> of antibiotics <b>affect</b> the digestive system.Easily confused wordsMSU
261261apogeethe highest point; point in orbit most distant from the body being orbited. </br>Also figuratively: peak, highest value nounLatin: apo= "furthest"+ geo="earth"=>point at which the moon is farthest from the earth"</br>apoapsis</br>Antnym:perigee.Child stars sometimes <u>reach their <b>apogee</b></u> by 20, and there's nowhere to go but down from there1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
262262efficacyeffectiveness; capability to produce a desired effectnounLatin: efficacia "efficacy, efficiency"The instructors <b>efficacy</b> was reduced by the lack of educational materials357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
263263effluentthe quality of flowing out. something that flows out, such as a stream from a river (n: effluence)adj., nounLatin: ex "out" + fluere "to flow"Paques builds plants that ensure that <u>wastewater</u> <b> effluent</b> is cleanedCommon GREMSU
264264egoI</br> self Greek/Latin rootego</br> egomaniac</br> egocentric</br> Greek/Latin MSU
265265elegya mournful poem; a lament for the deadnounGreek elegeia ode "an elegaic song", where elegos= "poem or song of lamentWhen the princess died, one of her favorite songwriters wrote a moving elegy for her.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
266266elicit to provoke a responseverbLatin roots e/ex=out +citus "set in motion=>to get a response out of</br>Syn: provokeIn the experiment, the scientist hoped to <u><b>elicit</b> a response</u> from a mouse by piping high-pitched sounds into a sealed cage.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
267267eloquence persuasive and articulate speechadj.French/Latin: "eloquent" from ex "out" + loqui "to speak"Since the girl spoke from the heart, the <u><b>eloquence</b> in her words</u> allowed everyone to completely understand and believe what she was saying.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
268268elusive </br>effusiveelusive is when not quite able to catch/find/get hold of whereas effusive is when showing or expressing gratitude, pleasure, or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manneradj.Latin: eludere =elude, frustrate + -ive.The elusive criminal was finally captured and his former inmates were effusive on his return to prisonEasily confused wordsMSU
269269eminent well-known, respected, distinguishedadj.ex "out" (see ex-) + -minere, which is related to mons "hill"Everyone was looking forward to taking the class with such <u>an <b>eminent</b> professor</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
270270emollientsoftening; something that softensadj., nounmollig= fett und weich</br>mollify=soften up and mollification=the softening up in literal and figurative senseThe lotion was a great <u><b>emollient</b> for her dry skin</u>Common GREMSU
271271empiricalderived from experiment and observation rather than theoryadj.reek: empeiros "experienced (in a thing), proven by use, en "in" + peira "trial, experiment"Our data is <u>based on <b>empirical</b> evidence</u> collected in numerous studies357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
272272apostateone who abandons his religious faith or political beliefs nounAfter Katie exposed Scientology's secrets, she was regarded as an <b>apostate </b> that should be ruined1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
273273emulate to imitate or attempt to equal in <b>accomplishment</b> to strive to equal or excel (n: emulation)<br> It is about the setting a goal to equal or exceed what someone else achieved, not necessarily doing it their way. verbLatin: aemulari "to rival."Sue is going to <u><b>emulate</b> her brother's strong work ethic</u> in order to be successful.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
274274emulate </br> imitateEmulate means "to try to be as good or successful as."</br> Imitate means "to copy or fashion oneself after."verbHe did not limit his actions to <b>imitating</b> his role model, but wished to go further and <b>emulate</b> his idol's successEasily confused wordsMSU
275275-enmade of, make adj., nounsilken</br> frozen</br> oaken</br> wooden</br> lighten SuffixMSU
276276-ence, ency action, state of, quality noun difference</br> conference</br> urgency SuffixMSU
277277encomiuma formal eulogy or speech of praisenounGreek: enkōmion=belonging to the praise or reward of a conqueroMrs. Poundstone was surprised and delighted on the last day of school when the students in her most difficult class presented her with an <b>encomium</b> they had written, praising her work as a teacher.Common GREMSU
278278apotheosiselevation to godhood; fact or action of becoming a god; an ideal example of something</br> ideal, nonesuch, nonpareil, nonsuch, paragon, saint noun Greek :apo "from+ "theos= god => person, place, or thing that is so out-of-this-world amazing that it seems as if it's "from God."Leonardo da Vinci was the <u><b>apotheosis</b> of genius</u> and the <u>Mona Lisa is the <b>apotheosis</b> of all his paintings</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
279279endemic </br> epidemicendemic is an inherent characteristic whereas epidemic is an illness wave that affect many in the population at the same timenounic=nature of, likeAs the syphyllis <b>epidemic</b> spread eastwards from Portugal, each successive nation claimed the disease was <b>endemic</b> to the nation west of itselfEasily confused wordsMSU
280280endowProvide with a quality, ability, or assetverbSyn: equip, bless, giveGood and inspiring teachers, meanwhile, such as. J.K. Rowlings Minerva McGonagall, are portrayed as endowed with supernatural gifts.Least DifficultFT
281281appellationname; title; act of naming; act of appealing for aid, sympathy nounFrench: appeller: to callGeorge Herman Ruth's parents may have known him as George, but the rest of the world knew this famous slugger by his <b>appellation</b>, Babe.</br>Champagne is <u>an <b>appellation</b> for the bubbly white</u> wine that comes from the Champagne region of France1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
282282appositestrikingly appropriate and relevant; well-suited adj.Latin: appositus and apponere. A=to + Ponere=to place=>apponere is "well-placed or well-put." </br>Don't confuse apposite with opposite; they have almost opposite meanings!Jake drinks red wine with each meal and does not worry about what wine connoisseurs say is <b>apposite</b> for each dish.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
283283appropriation1. taking something and making it your own, either in a positive or negative sense</br>2. setting money aside or budgeting to do something as act of legislature noun1. I <b>appropriated</b> my mother's french fries while she was not looking. </br> 1b. <u>Cultural <b>appropriation</u></b> is one of the issues that gets het most upset </br>2. The government committee appropriated sufficient funds to agricultural renewal program1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
284284engender to cause or give rise toverbfrom in- "in" + generare "bring forth, beget, produce" itself from genus "give birth, beget"His slip of the toungue <b>engendered</b> much laughter.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
285285engender </br> endangerengender is to bring into being, whereas endanger is to put at riskverbSome people believe violent video games <b>engender</b> feelings of hostility in young people, thereby <b>endangering</b> them and those around them. Easily confused wordsMSU
286286enhance intensify, increase, augmentverbFrench via low germanic origine = similar to German "erhöhe"When Jane paints her bedroom yellow she is going to really <b>enhance</b> the room and make it appear brighter.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
287287enigmaa person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understandnounLatin: aenigma="riddle"</br>Syn : puzzle, mysteryScientists continue to research cancer to solve the <b>enigma</b> of its primary cause, which will hopefully lead to a cure.Common GREMSU
288288entitlement belief that one deserves things one has not earned, the rights one is afforded under the lawnounThe spoiled girls sense of <b>entitlement</b> to any object in sight resulted in her inability to make frien357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
289289aquiferunderground bed or layer yielding ground water for wells and springs etc nounLatin :aqui-: "water" + -fer "bearing" from ferre "to bear, carry"China will never let go of Nepal, as its <b>aquifers</b> under the Himalayas are the world's largest reserves of water.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
290290ephemeralanything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a dayadj.Syn: fleeting, passing, short-livedAn ephemeral moment of victory may last mere seconds, but it can remain as a triumphant memory for decades.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
291291aquilinecurved or hooked like an eagle's beak, generally referred to noses. adj.Latin aquilinus "of or like an eagle"The Nazi's generally depicted Jews with an <u><b>aquiline</b> nose</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
292292epiupon</br> over Greek/Latin rootepidermis</br> epidemic</br> epigram</br> epitaph</br> epithet</br> epiphyte</br> epistasis</br> epinephrine</br> epiphysis Greek/Latin MSU
293293equable even-tempered,not given to much change or variationadj.Because she is so <b>equable</b>, my even-tempered mother rarely gets upset.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
294294equivocalambiguous; unclear; subject to more than one interpretation -- often intentionally so: (v. equivocate)adj.Latin: (multiple opinions given) equal voice.=> ie. unclearRepublicans complained that Bill Clinton's answers were <b>equivocal.</b>Common GREMSU
295295equivocate to use ambiguous language in order to mislead or deceiveverbEquivocate is <u>one of the 5 most common mistakes</u> made in the GRE! It does NOT mean equal.Whenever the politician responded to questions, he would avoid eye contact and <b>equivocate</b> his answers.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
296296-er, or on who, that which Suffixbaker</br> carpenter</br> brewer SuffixMSU
297297erroneous incorrectadj.Despite the fact that you used an erroneous method to solve the problem, somehow you managed to arrive at the correct solution.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
298298arborealtree-dwelling; treelike; living in trees adj.Latin arboreus= "pertaining to trees1. The <u><b>arboreal</b> primates</u> arrived at the Zoo from the Congo.</br>2. our cabin is in a forest and thus we have stunning <u><b>arboreal</b> views</u> from the deck.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
299299erudite learned; scholarly; displaying deep intensive learning. (n: erudition)adj.High school students often struggle with novels that are more erudite than they are entertaining.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
300300-escentin the process of becomingadj., noun adolescent</br> obsolescent</br> convalescent </br>nascentSuffixMSU
301301eschew avoid or abstain fromverbsame root as: German scheuen "to fear, shun, shrink from"True vegetarians eschew food items that come from living animals.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
302302-esea native of adj., noun Javanese</br> Vietnamese SuffixMSU
303303-esis,osisaction, process, condition noun genesis</br> hypnosis</br> neurosis</br> osmosis SuffixMSU
304304archetypeprototype; original model or type after which other similar things are patterned nounGreek: arkhē "beginning, origin, first place" + typos "model, type, blow, mark of a blow"=>first modelIf you have long blonde hair, a sparkly ball gown, and a fairy godmother hovering over your head, you're the archetype of a fairytale princess.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
305305esoteric obscure, arcane, intended for or understood by only a fewadj.Syn: abstruse, obscure, arcane </br>ic="nature of, likeThe esoteric discussion confused some people. (n: esoterica)</br>The subjects at hand often sound esoteric, if not silly, but the questions may prove more than merely academic.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
306306-essfemale noun poetess</br> goddess SuffixMSU
307307estimable deserving respect, esteem, and admirationadj.Our estimable professor is constantly being recognized for his cancer research357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
308308-et, ette small one, group noun midget</br> octet</br> baronet</br> SuffixMSU
309309ethosthe characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or communitynounSyn: character, atmosphere, climateMr. Cotton presented himself as a member of the generation moved by the patriotic spirit. leaving civilian careers to join the army and learn a warrior ethosLeast DifficultFT
310310arraignofficially charge someone in a court of law verbLatin: ad "to" + *rationare, from ratio "argumentation; reckoning"=> ie. presenting an account — a record — of the thing the person has done wrong.The accused was <u><b>arraigned</b> in court</u>: the official charge was read and the accused responded by saying "not guilty."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
311311eulogy memorial speech for one who has passed, normally given at a funeralnounThe rabbis eulogy was both heartfelt and inspirin357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
312312exout Greek/Latin rootexotic</br> exterior</br> extraneous</br> extemporaneous</br> exophalmic</br> exogenous</br> exothermic</br> exoskeleton Greek/Latin MSU
313313arrearsbeing in debt; unpaid, overdue debt or an unfulfilled obligation noun Old French ariere "behind, backward"Because <u>Jills credit card payment has been <b>in arrears</b> for three months</u>, the card issuer is suspending her account.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
314314exacerbate to make worse; to increase the bitterness or violence of; to aggravateverbThe decision to fortify the border exacerbated tensions.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
315315exacting challenging, demanding, gruelingadj.Sarahs exacting client insisted she work during the holiday357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
316316arrogateclaim without justification; claim for oneself without right verb<u>Demonstrators <b>arrogated</b> a 6 block zone in Seattle</u> called CHOP1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
317317exculpatepronounce not guilty of criminal charges; to demonstrate or prove to be blameless verbThe evidence tended to exculpate the defendant.(adj: exculpatory)357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
318318exigent urgent or pressing; demanding or pressingadj.An exigent officer is difficult to get along with because he asks ridiculous things of his soldiers.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
319319exonerate to clear of charges of wrongdoingverbThe testimony from the witness will hopefully <u><b>exonerate</b> my husband of all charges</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
320320exorbitantexceeding customary or normal limits, esp. in quantity or price:adj. The cab fare was <b>exorbitant</b>, so I suspected the driver had taken a round about route.Common GREMSU
321321expatiate to elaborate on something in great detailverbDuring his book signing, Clark will <b>expatiate</b> on his military adventures <u>for as long as you are willing to listen</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
322322explicate to explain in detailverbic=nature of, like</br>If the auditor finds an error in the accounting records, the treasurer <u>will need to <b>explicate</b> the mistake</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
323323explicitfully and clearly expressedadj.The bank representative made sure the borrower was aware of the <b>explicit</b> terms of the loan agreement.Common GREMSU
324324exposition a thorough explanationnounn. a public show or fairThe researcher gave <u>a full <b>exposition</b> of his research results</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
325325extantin existence, still existing adj.Syn: living, still existing, remainingThe only <b>extant</b> representative of that species.Common GREMSU
326326extant </br> extentextant usually refers to the last surviving example in existence(eg. Book, species) whereas extent is the length or amount of somethingadj.<u>The last <b>extant</b> white rhinos</u> are still being hunted down for randy Asian geriatrics. </br>The <b>extent</b> of corruption in the bureaucracy was well known.Easily confused wordsMSU
327327extraneous irrelevant or superfluousadj.If you slip off your diet, the <u><b>extraneous</b> calories</u> will make you gain all the weight you lost.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
328328extrapolate to estimate or conjecture about the future based on presently available information or factsverbThe scientist tried to <b><u>extrapolate</b> the future results by looking at data from previous testing</u> dates357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
329329artificesubtle but base deception; trickery; cleverness or skill; ingenuity nounDuring the treasure hunt, we will <u>make use of an <b>artifice</b> to trick</u> our opponents into searching in the wrong area.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
330330facetious Treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humoradj.Syn: flippant, glib, tongue-in-cheek.</br> "Facetious" stresses a desire to produce laughter and may be derogatory in implying dubious or ill-timed attempts at wit or humorMore disturbing,' says Mr. Hart, I didn't note that his column was facetious. In tone, it was indeed, and I should have noted that.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
331331facilitate to make something easier or simplerverbfacile=easy in French. Going to all lectures and doing all tutorials greatly facilitates passing the exam357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
332332factiona small, organized, dissenting group within a larger one, especially in politicsnounSyn: contingent, section, sectorOne particular separatist faction is now widely accepted to have been responsible for a string of small bombs which detonated in August.Least DifficultFT
333333fallaciouscontaining or based on incorrect reasoningadj. fallacy </br>Deutsch: irreführenHe clung to the fallacious hope that she would return.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
334334fallowInactiveadj.Syn: dormant, quiet, slackTheir fickle attention might waver for a few fallow years of rebuilding, but Angel Stadium will still be standing.Least DifficultFT
335335falterMove unsteadily or in a way that shows lack of confidenceverbSyn: stumble, fumbleHis early steps were faltering, and a frailer soul might have been daunted by his mentors fate.Least DifficultFT
336336fastidious meticulousadj.adj. invested in cleanlinessConstantly licking themselves, cats are fastidious creatures.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
337337fathom1. a measure of length (six feet) used in nautical settings.</br>2. to penetrate to the depths of something in order to understand it noun, verbOld English fæðm "length of the outstretched arm" (a measure of about six feet)1. <u>Nautical charts in the US measure water depth in feet as well as <b>fathoms</b></u></br>2. <u>I couldn't <b>fathom</u> her reasoning</u> on that issue.Common GREMSU
338338ascendancysuperiority or decisive advantage; domination nounLatin:ascendere "to mount, ascend, go up"As early as round three of the boxing match, Frazier had created an <b>ascendancy</b> that permitted him to easily knock Ali around the ring.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
339339fawn1. n. a baby deer. </br>2. v. to behave in an excessively humble or obsequious manner., to seek favor or attentionnoun, verbnoun: same Latin word root as fetus</br>verb: same root as "feiern" in Deutsch1. bambi was a <b>fawn</b></br>2. Charlie always <u><b>fawned</b> over</u> his professors so much that all the other students disliked him.HomonymMSU
340340federisleague</br> pact Greek/Latin rootfederation</br> confederate Greek/Latin MSU
341341feignto give false appearance or impression verbHe feigned illness to avoid going to school. (adj: feigned)Common GREMSU
342342fervid, ferventhighly emotional; hot: " (n: fervor)adj.The partisans displayed a fervent patriotism.Common GREMSU
343343-ficmaking, causing adj. scientific</br> specific SuffixMSU
344344fission </br> fusionfission= division into two or more parts whereas fusion is the the reverse, ie. The joining of multiple parts into onenounNuclear fission is the principle behind current nuclear weapons, but the energy source of the future is nuclear fusionEasily confused wordsMSU
345345flag1. n. banner. </br>2. v. to wane or weakennoun, verb2. Bedeutung als Verb kommt vom gleichen germanischen Wortstamm wie "flattern"2. When <u>the runner's strength begins to <b>flag</b></u>, she walks for a few minutes, then gradually increases her speed.HomonymMSU
346346flailflail means to wave around wildly or in an extended sense: Flounder; struggle uselesslyverbLatin word flagellum, which is a whip</br>Syn: thrash, thresh, squirmThe man <u>stranded on the deserted island <b>flailed</b> his arms in the air</u> to get the passing by ship captains attention.Least DifficultFT
347347flaunt </br> floutflaunt is to display brazenly or pretentiously whereas flout is to to show an obvious disregard or disrespect for; to treat contemptuouslyverbFlaunt is to show off, but flout is to ignore the rules. Rebels do both — they flaunt their new pink motorcycles by popping a wheelie, and flout the law by running a red lighHe came into the Church, <b><u>flaunting</b> his riches</u> with his designer clothes, <b><u>flouting</b> all rules</u> by dancing on the altar. Easily confused wordsMSU
348348fledgling1. a baby bird; </br>2. an inexperienced person; inexperienced.adj., nounSame German word root as "Flügel", d.h. get wings</br>. Also implies potential to improve1. The <u><b>fledgling</b> storks</u> start to leave the nest about 2 months after hatching. </br>2. Jill is a <b>fledgling</b> skater who must work on her turns more.Common GREMSU
349349asepticpreventing infection; having cleansing effect adj.Greek: a-=not + septic= “characterized by putrefaction"(ie. Rotting of flesh)=>sterileNurses stored the unused sterile syringes in <b>aseptic</b> containers for future use.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
350350flounderingstruggling:adj.Dutch/German roots "flattern" We tried to save the floundering business.Common GREMSU
351351fluctuate to shift without apparent patternverbEach day, the <u>price of gold will <b>fluctuate on the market</u></b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
352352flukeUnlikely chance occurrence, especially a surprising piece of lucknounoriginally a lucky shot at billiards</br>Sometimes written: "' flook "</br>Syn: coincidence, accident, a twist of fateThe ball sank into the net after 2 deflections in what can only be called <u>a lucky <b>fluke</u></b>Least DifficultFT
353353foil1. n. a thin sheet made of metal. </br>2. n. a type of rapier or sword. foils: the sport or practice of fencing with such swords. </br>3. n. a person or thing used in a comparison in order to make another person or thing seem superior. </br>4. v. to spoil or thwart; to prevent the success of. noun1. Dad <u>wrapped the spare ribs in aluminium <b>foil</u></b> before putting them on the grill.</br>2. <u>The fencing competition took place with</u> rubber-ball capped <u><b>foils</b></u></br>3. She had brought <u>so many unsuitable suitors</u> home to her parents that these <u>were nothing but <b>foils</b></u>, so the introduction of John led her parents to happily agree to the marriage. </br>4. The <u>early return of their parents <b>foiled</b> their plans for a party</u>.HomonymMSU
354354foment to foster unrest or discontentverbLatin fomentum "warm application, poultice"on the notion of "encourage the growth of" similar to fermentthe police are here to keep people calm, not to <u?<b>foment</b> violence</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
355355forage(of a person or animal) search widely for food or provisionsverbSyn: hunt, scavenge, grubAnd you must be ready to abandon tired orthodoxies of the left and right and forage for good ideas across the political spectrum.Least DifficultFT
356356forestallkeep from happening or arising; make impossibleverbSyn: pre-empt, get in before, get ahead ofTo forestall a social crisis, he mused, governments should consider a tax on robots; if automation slows as a result, so much the better.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
357357fortuitousHappening by a lucky chanceadj.Syn: fortunate, advantageous, opportuneThanks to these sensible policies, and the fortuitous tailwind of higher productivity growth, the economy boomed and prosperity was shared.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
358358dissimulatepretend; hide feelings from other people verbHas nothing to do with "dis-similar", but means to "simulieren"(Deutsch im negativen Sinn) with a negative intent of hiding one's true feelings. </br> Hide one feelings is what one has to remember here" As Louis XI once said, "He who knows not how to <b>dissimulate</b>, can not reign."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
359359fraterbrother Greek/Latin rootfraternize</br> fraternity</br> fraternal</br> fratricide Greek/Latin MSU
360360frugal economical, thriftyadj.<u>Be more <b>frugal</b> with your expenses</u>, and you will not be in debt.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
361361fry1. v. to cook in hot oil. </br>2. n. baby fishnoun2. The police were <u>not interested in the <b>small fry</b> drug dealers</u>, but wanted to catch the drug kingpin.HomonymMSU
362362-fulfull of adj. frightful</br> beautiful</br> helpful SuffixMSU
363363-fymake verb fortify</br> simplify SuffixMSU
364364gainsay deny or oppose, Speak against or oppose (someone), denyverbLiterally: Say against</br>Syn: be against, object to, be hostile toIt is <u>impossible to <u>gainsay</u> the importance of a good education</u> in todays competitive job market357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
365365galvanize to prod someone into actionverbfigurative sense of "galvanize by electricity"By holding a rally, <u>the politician hoped to <b>galvanize</b> young people to vote</u> 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
366366dissolutelacking moral restraint; indulging in sensual pleasures or vices adj.</br>Syn: debauched, degenerate, degraded, dissipated, fast, libertine, profligate, riotousHis father's half sister <u>chose to lead a <b>dissolute</b> lifestyle</u>: she partied all the time, got addicted to heroin, found work too much of an effort and generally wasted her life. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
367367asperityharshness of manner, roughness nounFrench. </br>Syn1 :sharpness</br>Syn2: grimness, hardship, rigor, rigorousness, rigour, rigourousness, severeness, severity1. The police officers dislike of me was obvious from <u>the <b>asperity</b> with which he demanded</u> my drivers license.</br>2. I could not get used the <u><b>asparity</b> of the Nordic winters</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
368368gauche socially inept, inappropriate, or awkwardadj.gauche = left oder in Deutsch: linksHis <b>gauche</b> statements made eveyone feel uncomfortable357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
369369geoearth Greek/Latin rootgeology</br> geography</br> geocentric</br> geomancy Greek/Latin MSU
370370germane relevant to the matter at hand, closely connected, relevantadj.Latin: germanus = having the same parentsThe president will only respond to media questions that are <b>germane</b> to the economic crisis.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
371371glibspeaking in a smooth, easy way that is insincere. adj.From German "glibberig", now used in a figurative senseBecause she is so conceited, Linda is constantly fishing for compliments, and she <u>takes all the <b>glib</b> flattery seriously</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
372372aspirantone who aspires, as to advancement, honors, or a high position nounlinked to word root: to aspire"The lofty aspirant had to start her career as an understudy to the prima ballerina."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
373373graph</br> gramwrite</br> record Greek/Latin rootgraphic</br> graphite</br> graphology</br> telegramGreek/Latin MSU
374374gregarioustemperamentally seeking and enjoying the company of others, sociableadj. Latin: gregarius="pertaining to a flock<u>Humans are by nature <b>gregarious</b></u>, and like to live close together357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
375375guileskillful deceit noun(v. bequile; adj: beguiling. Note, however, that these two words have an additional meaning: to charm (v.) or charming (adj:), while the word guile does not generally have any such positive connotations)The <u>devious conman well known for his <b>guile</b></u>. Common GREMSU
376376assentexpress agreement to what is alleged or proposed; accept verbSyn: accede, acquiesce</br>Ant:dissent1. “The Maestro <u><b>assented</b> to the request</u> for an encore”</br><u>He nodded his head in assent</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
377377guilelesshonest; straightforward (n: guilelessness)adj.The peasant's simple guileless comments made for refereshing talkCommon GREMSU
378378hack1. v. to chop. </br>2. n. a bad or unoriginal writer.verb1. <u>He hacked a <b>path</b> through the jungle</u> with his panga</br>2. Even though he worked for the New York Times, he always felt like a <b>hack.</b>HomonymMSU
379379hackneyedoverused, so overused as to have become uninteresting, repeated too often, cliché, trite, banaadj.Named after London Borough of Hackney where small horses were let out for hire, so figuratively: "used many times over that it has become uninteresting"Too often used by young girls, <u>the word “like” has become <b>hackneyed</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
380380assimilateto make similar, to incorporate or absorb into verbLatin: ad "to" + simulare "make similar" The USA country <b>assimilates</b> immigrants very quickly1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
381381haranguea loud bombastic declamation expressed with strong emotionnounSyn: tirade, diatribe, rant </br>Deutsch: Moralpredigt, TiradeState-run China Central Television (CCTV) has broadcast harsh criticisms of some multinationals, including an absurd <b>harangue</b> over Starbucks prices.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
382382headlongheadfirst; impulsive; hasty. impulsively; hastily; without forethought:adj. They <u>rushed <b>headlong</u></b> into marriage.Common GREMSU
383383hedonism the pursuit of pleasurenounFreddie Mercuy was known to be a great singer and a non-stop <b>hedonist</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
384384heteromixed</br> unlike Greek/Latin rootheterogeneous</br> heterosexual</br> heterodox</br> heterodont</br> hetero atom</br> heterocyclic</br> heterozygous</br> Greek/Latin MSU
385385hierarchical arranged in rank order or hierarchyadj.<u>The <b>hierarchic</b> structure</u> of the company led to internal problems357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
386386homosame</br> alike Greek/Latin roothomogeneous</br> homogenized</br> homozygous</br> homolytic fission</br> Homo sapiens</br> homonid</br> homeostasis </br> homophoneGreek/Latin MSU
387387astigmatismeye defect that prevents proper focus nounGreek: a-: "without." + stigma: "point" =>so an eye that is "without point" ,ie. Light can't focus. After being <u>diagnosed with an <b>astigmatism</b></u>, Jansen started wearing glasses.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
388388homogenousof the same or similar kindadj. uniform, identicalThere are <u>very few truly <b>homogenous</b> cultures</u> since social diversity is increasingly widespread.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
389389-hoodorder, quality noun neighborhood</br> motherhood SuffixMSU
390390husband1. n. a male spouse. </br>2. v. to farm, to manage frugally. to conservenounLong ago husbands were robust men of the Earth — farmers, in other words. That meaning died out, but its current meaning survives as a remnant of it.1. My mother's husband is my father.</br>2. Our <u>animal <b>husbandry</b></u>, or animal care, staff—the ones who clean cages and feed the animals—is physically isolated down the road. HomonymMSU
391391hyperbole obvious exaggeration for effectnounhyper=too much + bole=to throw=> to throw too far.Obviously the network is <u>overreacting and engaging in <b>hyperbole</b></u> when they say 55 million people are in danger! Due to normal thunderstorms357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
392392-icnature of, like adj. metallic</br> heroic</br> poetic SuffixMSU
393393-icecondition, state, quality noun justice</br> malice SuffixMSU
394394at loggerheadsengaged in a dispute adj.The U.K. and the EU are trying to secure a new trade deal, but <u>remain <b>at loggerheads</b> on several key issues</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
395395iconoclast a person who attacks traditional religious and cultural institutionsnounSyn: critic, skeptic, dissenterHe has overtaken Manuel Valls, the centre-left prime minister, as the lefts most outspoken iconoclast, and shown up the Socialist left as die-hard conservative357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
396396-id, ide something connected to or belonging to adj., noun fluid</br> fluoride</br> torrid</br> canid SuffixMSU
397397idemthe same Greek/Latin rootidentity</br> idiopathic</br> I</br> individual Greek/Latin MSU
398398ideoidea Greek/Latin rootideology</br> ideation</br> ideal Greek/Latin MSU
399399ideological relating to a particular belief system or theoryadj.Due to the criminals <u><b>ideological</b> perspective that he is always right</u>,the criminal would hurt people if they wronged h357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
400400idiosone's own Greek/Latin rootidiom</br> idiosyncrasy</br> idiopathic Greek/Latin MSU
401401imminent about to happenadj.French/ Latin: "overhanging; impending"When the Secret Service arrived, everyone knew <u>the presidents arrival was <b>imminent.</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
402402immutableUnchanging over time or unable to be changedadj.Latin :"not changeable."</br>Syn: permanent, set, steadfastAs memories can fade over time, they are not considered to be <b>immutable.</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
403403impairmake worse or less effectiveverbFrench/latin: impeiorare "make worseInure means to get used to something difficult, painful, or unpleasant.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
404404impecuniouspenniless; pooradj.Latin: in- "not, opposite of" +pecuniosus "rich, money<u>He spent more than he earned, so he was always <b>impecunious</b></u>Common GREMSU
405405impediment barrier, hindrance, or obstructionnounFrench/Latin in:"into, in" + gen. pedis: "foot = >"to shackle the feet"I am not letting my broken wrist be an <b>impediment</b> to me keeping fit357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
406406imperiouscommanding,domineering; expecting ones' orders to be followedadj.Latin imperiōsus"command, supreme power, empire."</br>Syn : arrogant, overbearing, and domineering<u>In an <b>imperious tone</b></u>, the police officer ordered the driver to step out of the car.Common GREMSU
407407imperturbable remaining calm under any circumstance,not disturbed or excited easilyadj.French/ Latin: ,in- "not, opposite of" + perturbare "to confuse, disturb"="that cannot be disturbed"<u>The <b>imperturbable</b> Apollo 11 commander</u> calmly landed the lunar module with 20 seconds of fuel remaining!357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
408408implacable unforgiving, relentless, not capable of being appeasedadj.French/Latin: in- "not, opposite of" + placabilis "easily appeased"=unappeasableEven after being offered a free gift card, <u>the angry customer remained <b>implacable.</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
409409implicationinsinuation or connotation (v. implicate)nounLatin :in- "into, in, on, upon" + plicare "to fold"= "an interweaving, an entanglement" <u>Bill resented the <b>implication</u></b> he was a drug dealer simply because he carried a large amount of cash in his pockets.Common GREMSU
410410implicit implied or insinuated without being directly statedadj.Latin :in- "into, in, on, upon" + plicare "to fold"= "an interweaving, an entanglement" Although you never stated I could use your car, your permission was <b>implicit</b> when you handed me your car keys.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
411411implyto suggest indirectly; to entail: (n: implication)verbLatin :in- "into, in, on, upon" + plicare "to fold"= Meaning "to involve something unstated as a logical consequence She <b>implied</b> she didn't believe his story.Common GREMSU
412412improvidencean absence of foresight; a failure to provide for future needs or events nounLatin: im-, "not" and providentia, "foresight."</br>Syn : shortsightednessTheir improvidence resulted in the loss of their home.Common GREMSU
413413imprudence bad judgment, often through quick and rash decisionsnounLatin: imprudentem means "not forseeing, unaware, or inconsiderate."</br>Syn: a)heedlessness, mindlessness, rashness b)improvidence, shortsightedness, c)lightheadedness, d)extravagance, prodigality, profligacy, e) thriftlessness, waste, wastefulnessPhils <u><b>imprudent</b> turn</u> on the highway caused a six-car accident357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
414414impudent disrespectfuladj.Latin: im, meaning without, + pudens, meaning shame</br>Syn: a) impertinent, overbold, sassy, saucy, smart, wise, forward. B) flip, insolent, snotty-nosed, disrespectfulThe boy is an <u><b>impudent</b> scoundrel</u> who doesnt seem to respect rules or people357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
415415in</br> il</br> im</br> irin : Deutscher Stamm: "in"Greek/Latin rootThis is the first of 2 generic meanings of "in". The other is</u> 'not'</u>incarcerate</br> incorporate</br> inculcate</br> induction</br> inductance</br> indigenous</br> indicator</br> inspiration Greek/Latin MSU
416416in</br> im not, against: Deutscher Stamm: "un-"Greek/Latin rootThis is the SECOND of 2 generic meanings of "in". The other is ÏNTOincredible</br> ignoble</br> inglorious</br> inhospitable</br> infinite</br> infinitesimal</br> immoral Greek/Latin MSU
417417inadvertent by accident or unintentionaladj.Latin: in- = "not+ ad ="to, toward" + vertere= "to turn." => inadvertent means “not turning the mind to</br>Syn: accident, unintendedBecause the principal neglected to turn off the microphone on the PA system, <u>some statements were <b>inadvertently</b> broadcat to all</u>. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
418418atrialof or pertaining to an atrium, especially the upper chambers of the heart adj.My father was treated for a disorder known as <u><b>atrial</b> flutter</u>, a non-life-threatening condition in which the heart beats less efficiently1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
419419inchoate rudimentary, in the beginning stagesadj.of uncertain origin. Probably something like to start strapping up the ox, ie. Start workThe act of writing forces one to clarify <u>vague <b>inchoate</u></b> thoughts.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
420420inconclusive indeterminate or unresolvedadj.Latin: in- "not, opposite of" + con :"together" + -cludere: "to shut"=>not shut together, not finalised</br>Syn: equivocal, indeterminate, head-to-head, neck and neck, nip and tuck, nisi, indecisive, indeterminate, undetermined<u>An autopsy was <b>inconclusive</u></b> on how Mason died.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
421421incorrigiblenot capable of being correctedadj.Latin: in: "not, opposite of" + corrigibilis"to correct"=> not correctable </br>Syn:a) unreformable, unregenerate b) uncontrollable, uncorrectable, unmanageable c) disobedientThe school board finally decided the James was <b>incorrigible</b> and expelled him from school.Common GREMSU
422422incredulous (credulous) versus </br> incredible (credible)<u>incredulous</u> is when a person is disbelieving, very doubtful - but when the statement or action is <u>incredible</u>, then IT is difficult to believeadj.The <b><u>incredulous</b> judge</u> listened to the witness' <b><u>incredible</b> story</u> that he had been kidnapped by aliens in a UFOEasily confused wordsMSU
423423indebted owing moneyadj.adj. owing gratitude to someone or somethingBecause his friend saved him from drowning in the pool, Carl felt <b>indebted</b> to return the favor somehow.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
424424indefatigable cannot be made tiredadj.in: "not" + de:"toward" + fatigue:"tiredness" =>not to bring to tirednessThe Kenyan marathon <u>runner was <b>indefatigable</b></u>, and finished in 2 hours357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
425425indeliblepermanent; unerasable; strongadj.Latin: in- "not"+ delere "destroy, blot out" => cannot be erasedThe Queen <u>made an <b>indelible</b> impression</u> on her subjects.Common GREMSU
426426indigenous </br> indigent1. local, native </br> </br>2. poor, needyadj.The <b>indigenous</b> population was hungry and <b>indigent</b>Easily confused wordsMSU
427427indolent lazyadj.Latin indolentem: causing no pain, painless"The <b>indolent</b> schoolboy failed the test. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
428428-inehaving the nature or characteristic of adj., noun feminine</br> masculine</br> medicine SuffixMSU
429429ineffableundescribable; inexpressible in words; unspeakableadj.The joy I experienced at the birth of my first child was <b>ineffable.</b>Common GREMSU
430430attrition1. wearing down by rubbing against each other. </br>2. gradual decrease in numbers; reduction in work force without firing employees; wearing away of opposition by means of harassment nounLatin:"abrasion, scraping, the rubbing of one thing against another"1. WW1 was a classic war of attrition.</br>2. The CEO decided to reduce costs by not replacing personnel lost to natural <b>attrition</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
431431infer to conclude from implicit evidence (as opposed to explicit facts)verbLatin in- "in" + ferre "to carry, to bear"=>to 'bring in' as a conclusion of a process of reasoning"New genetic evidence led some zoologists to infer that the red wolf is actually a hybrid of the coyote and the gray wolf.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
432432imply </br> infer Imply means to suggest or to say something in an indirect way. Infer means to suppose or come to a conclusion, especially based on an indirect suggestionverbThe presenter implied indirectly that his colleague may be late and the audience inferred from the suble hint that the colleague would be late. Easily confused wordsMSU
433433ingeniousclever: (n: ingenuity)adj.Latin: In=in + genious=born, ie. for inborn talentShe developed an ingenious method for testing her hypothesis.Common GREMSU
434434augurysign of something coming; art or practice of foretelling events by signs or omens nounLatin "augur", a religious official in ancient Rome who foretold events by observing signsAccording to the psychic, the black cat was an <b>augury</b> of my impending death.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
435435ingenuous naive or innocent; unsophisticated; artless; straightforward; candid adj.Latin: ingenuus "with the virtues of freeborn people, of noble character, frank, upright, candid" </br> naïve, innocentThe scam artist preyed on <u><b>ingenuous</b> nursing home residents</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
436436ingenious (ingenuity) </br> ingenuous (and disingenuous)Ingenious indicates cleverness, particularly relating to inventive, while ingenuous refers to sincerity or a naive nature.adj. Latin: ingenuus "having the qualities of people born free, noble, honest, open</br>"genuous comes same root as genuineEinstein was <b>ingenious</b> while his wife was <b>ingenuous</b>Easily confused wordsMSU
437437inhibitto hold back, prohibit, forbid, or restrain (n: inhibition, adj: inhibited)verbPIE / Latin: in= not + hibere = have (haben auf Deutsch) => to hinder</br> Syn: a) hinder, impede b)conquer, curb, stamp down, subdue, suppress c) hold back, keep, keep back, restrain 1. Contact between young adults was inhibited by strict social customs</br>2. The trace component inhibited the rate of a chemical reaction Common GREMSU
438438inimical harmful or hostileadj.Latin inimicus "unfriendly; an enemy"NATO is seen to be <b>inimical</b> to the best interests of the Russian people.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
439439avocationactivity taken up in addition to one's regular work or profession, usually for enjoyment nounA vocation is the work you do because you have to; an avocation is what you do for pleasure, not pay.My father says that gardening is the type of <b>avocation</b> he enjoys in his spare time.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
440440innocuousharmless; having no adverse affect; not likely to provoke strong emotionadj.from in- "not" + nocuus "hurtful"</br> Syn: a) harmless, innoxious b) innocent, harmless c) unobjectionable, inoffensiveBecause the virus was <b>innocuous</b>, the hospital staff had no need to worry about the leak.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
441441inscrutable enigmatic, incomprehensibleadj.in- "not, opposite of" + scrutari "examine, ransack"=> that cannot be discovered by searching </br>Syn: cryptic, cryptical, deep, mysterious, mystifying, incomprehensible, inexplicableNot even the leading experts in criminology could understand <u>the killers <b>inscrutable</b> motives</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
442442insensiblebarely able to be perceivedadj.Wayne was rendered <b>insensible</b> by a blow to the head. </br> They were <b>insensibile</b> to the suffering of others.:Common GREMSU
443443insensible </br> insensitiveWhen used as adjectives, insensible means unable to be perceived by the senses, whereas insensitive means not expressing normal physical feelings or not acting with normal interpersonal skillsadj. X-rays are insensible to humans, but doctors can be insensitive to patientsEasily confused wordsMSU
444444avowalopen declaration; frank acknowledgment nounnoun of "to avow", itself from French: avouer "to solemnly declare, to admit"Are you ready to make <u>an <b>avowal</b> of love</u> to your bride during your wedding ceremony?1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
445445insipidlacking interest or significance or impactadj.Syn: boring, vapid, dull. </br>Deutsch: Geschmacklos, fad. </br> Latin in- "not" + Latin sapidus "tasty" sapere It was a stultifying procession of patriotic songs, nothing but insipid skits and bald propaganda.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
446446avuncularin manner of uncle, pertaining to uncle; kind, genial, benevolent or tolerant adj.Latin:avunculus, meaning "maternal uncle"My physics teacher at school was <b>avuncular</b>, kind and patient and generally indulgent with people younger than he was.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
447447insular of or pertaining to an island, thus, excessively exclusive: tight-knit and isolated; uninterested in matters outside ones immediate spheradj.gleicher Wortstamm wie "insel" Newcomers found it difficult to make friends in the insular community. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
448448intensive 1. concentrated and in-depth </br>2. of agriculture; intended to increase productivity of a fixed area by expending more capital and laboradj.1. “the questioning was intensive”, “intensive care”, “research- intensive”, “a labor- intensive industry” </br>2. “intensive agriculture”357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
449449interbetween Greek/Latin rootinteract</br> interstellar</br> interpret</br> interstitial Greek/Latin MSU
450450intermediary a go-betweennouninter- = between, + medius= the middle =>go-between or a mediator between two other people. </br>Syn: go-between, intercessor, intermediator, mediatorFor online exchanges, I use PayPal because it is an <b>intermediary</b> that performs secure financial transactions.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
451451intimate close (as in a relationship)adj.adj. particularly privatev. to imply357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
452452intractabledifficult to manage or moldadj.in=not + tract= manage (like contract) => not manageable</br> Syn: a) defiant, noncompliant b) disobedient c) obstinate, stubborn, unregenerate d) untamed, wild e) balking, balky f) refractory, stubborn g) uncontrollable, unmanageable h) unmalleable1. Additional police officers were called to the scene when the crowd became intractable</br>2. It took six paramedics to handle the intractable task of lifting the eight hundred pound woman.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
453453azuresky blue; light purplish-blue adj.Jane has a ring with an <u><b>azure</b> stone that perfectly matches her blue eyes</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
454454intransigent uncompromising, obstinate, stubborn, immovable, unwilling to change adj.in-: "not" + trans=movement =>is not moving</br>Syn: bullheadedness, obstinacy, obstinance, pigheadedness, self-will, stubbornnessHe was an <u><b>intransigent</b> conservative</u> opposed to every liberal tendency357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
455455intrepid bold and adventurousadj.in- "not" + trepidus "alarmed,tremble".=> no fear </br> same root as trepidation=fearTo be an astronaut, you must be an <b>intrepid</b> person who craves adventure and is not afraid of heights.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
456456inveterate ingrained, habitualadj. associated with chronic disease in middle English. Now refers to something that is a signature habit with a person. </br>Syn: chronic, usualMark is an inveterate liar who could not tell the truth even if you paid him357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
457457invulnerable indestructible, impervious to harmadj.Syn: unconquerable, protected, safesecure, air-tight, airtight, bombproof, shellproof, defendable, defensible, impregnable, inviolable, secure, strong, unassailable, unattackable, tight, sheltered, untouchableGunners shot at the beach from <b>invulnerable</b> positions on the cliffs357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
458458-ion, sion, tion act of, state of, result of noun contagion</br> infection</br> aversion SuffixMSU
459459bacchanaliandrunken; relating to reveling and drunkenness adj.Latin :bacchanalis "having to do with Bacchus, god of wine" </br>Bachanalian festivals become so excessively drunken that they were banned in 186 BC.</br>Syn:Dionysian (Dionys was another name for Baccus)Although the corporate party was supposed to be a formal affair, <u>it quickly turned into a bacchanalian party fest</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
460460irasciblequickly aroused to angeradj.Syn: irritable, quick-tempered, short-temperedHe survived, but some of his contemporaries thought that the accident changed his personality from pleasant to irascible.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
461461irresoluteuncertain how to act or proceedadj.Syn: indecisive, discouraged, infirm, unstable, vacillant, vacillating, wavering, weak-kneedBecause Jack is <b>irresolute</b> about the future of the stock market, he is hesitant to make a large financial investment at this time.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
462462-ishorigin, nature, resembling adj., nounSpanish</br> foolish</br> impishSuffixMSU
463463-ismsystem, manner, condition noun alcoholism</br> feminism</br> heroism</br> communism SuffixMSU
464464-istone who, that which nounpianist</br> elitist SuffixMSU
465465-itenature of, quality of adj., noundynamite</br> graphite</br> sulfite</br> neophyte SuffixMSU
466466-ity, ty state of, quality Suffixcaptivity</br> clarity SuffixMSU
467467-ivecausing Suffixconclusive</br> festive</br> restive</br> abusive SuffixMSU
468468-izeto make (like) verb emphasize</br> anthropomorphize SuffixMSU
469469parricidePerson who kills a parent or near relativeadj.Latin: parus "relative" + cida "killer"=> killer of relative</br> see -cide (nr. 150)The young criminal committed <b>parricide</b> in the hope of getting the inheritance early. AMBRATMW
470470laconic taciturn, reserved, succinct, using few words; terse: (of a person, speech, or style of writing) using very few wordsadj.Persons from Lakonia,Sparta, Greece, whose inhabitants famously cultivated the skill of saying much in few words.</br>Syn: brief, concise, terseMaths proofs can sometimes be very short and laconic</br>Philip of Macedon threatened Laconians with, "If I enter Laconia, I will raze Sparta to the ground" the laconic ' reply was, "If."357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
471471latentpotentially existing but not presently evident or realizedadj.Middle English from Latin latēre: "to lie hidden."</br>Syn:possible, potentialIf Janet is anything like her mother, she will show a <u><b>latent</b> skill</u> for singing when she reaches her teenage years.Common GREMSU
472472laudpraise, glorify, or honor often in a very public mannerverbSyn: exalt, extol, glorify, proclaim, canonise, canonize, ensky, crack up, hymnBecause the soldier saved the president, everyone is going to <b>laud</b> him at a huge event357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
473473doctrinaireunable to compromise about points of doctrine; unyielding adj.from doctrine. </br>Syn:dogmatic, instructiveThe <u>leftest <b>doctrinaire</b></u> was completely unwilling to accept any belief other than her own1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
474474laudablepraiseworthy; commendable (v. laud)adj.Providing affordable healthcare for all citizens is <u>a <b>laudable</b> goal</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
475475legis (lex) law Greek/Latin rootlegal</br> legislature Greek/Latin MSU
476476-lesswithout adj. worthless</br> mindless</br> guileless SuffixMSU
477477leviathangiant whale, therefore, something very largenounfrom Hebrew livyathan "dragon, serpent, huge sea animal </br>a) freak, lusus naturae, monster, monstrosity b) mythical creature, mythical monsterThe tree was a <b>leviathan</b> among redwoodsCommon GREMSU
478478lexisword Greek/Latin rootlexicon</br> lexicography Greek/Latin MSU
479479liberfree</br> book Greek/Latin rootliberty</br> library</br> liberal Greek/Latin MSU
480480lied1. v. past tense. to tell an untruth.</br>2. n. (plural: lieder) German. a song, lyric, or ballad.verb, nounSelbsterklaerend2. This opera was inspired by a traditional lied.HomonymMSU
481481badinageteasing conversation; good-humored, playful conversation nounFrench playfullness, jestful, The two actors are best friends and are often seen <u>exchanging humouress <b>badinage</u></b> during interviews1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
482482litigation legal proceedingsnounLatin: act of carrying on a lawsuitCharles <u>entered into <b>litigation</u></b> when he opened a civil suit, attempting to hold his former employer liable for withholding wages357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
483483locusplace Greek/Latin rootlocality, local, circumlocution</br>locus, allocate, dislocate,</br> local, locale, locate, </br>locomotive, relocate.Greek/Latin MSU
484484bailifflegal officer to whom some degree of authority, eg. Maintaining order in courtroom nounThe job varies per country. In the UK, they normally execute repossessions. In both cases, they act on orders of the court.A teary Gregorio waved to onlookers <u>as <b>bailiffs</b> led him away</u> in handcuffs.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
485485balefulto give an omen or anticipatory sign of evil; harmful in intent or effect. adj.Syn: forbidding, menacing, minacious, minatory, ominous, sinister, threateningThe witness was frightened when the defendant gave her a <u><b>baleful</b> glance</u> filled with hatred.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
486486doggerelpoor verse; of crude or irregular construction nounProbably from pejorative suffix -rel + dog William McGonagall <u>wrote such bad <b>doggerel</u></b> that he would regularly get belted with rotten eggs, tomatoes and the like during his poetic readings.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
487487beatificcompletely happy and contented; showing or producing exalted joy adj.Latin beatus "blessed, happy" + -ficus "making doing=>make/doing blessed/happy</br>Syn: angelic, angelical, sainted, saintlike, saintlyThe bride looked angelic and <u>wore a <b>beatific</b> expression</u> as she walked down the aisle.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
488488lugubriousweighty, mournful, or gloomy, especially to an excessive degree: "Jake's lugubrious monologues depressed his friends."adj.Latin lugubris "mournful, doleful, pertaining to mourning"</br>Syn: mournful, gloomy, sadAfter his wife left him, he walked around in a <b>lugubrious</b> condition for monthsCommon GREMSU
489489lumber1. n. wood used for building. </br>2. v. to move heavily or without grace.noun, verb2. The Frankenstein monster lumbered toward the little girl. HomonymMSU
490490luminoussoftly bright or radiantadj.Latin luminosus "shining, full of light, conspicuous"One <b>luminous</b> bulb produces enough light to brighten both the kitchen and the dining room.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
491491-lylike adv.clearly</br> fearlessly SuffixMSU
492492macrolarge Greek/Latin rootmacroeconomics</br>macroscopic</br>macrophage Greek/Latin MSU
493493beatitudeblessedness; state of extreme happiness nounSyn: cerulean, lazuline, sapphire, sky-blueJane has a ring with an <b>azure</b> stone that perfectly matches her blue eyes1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
494494magnanimitynobility and generosity of spiritnounLatin: magnus "great" + animus "mind, soul, spirit"=>"having a great soul" Moved by <b>magnanimity</b>, the boxing champion reached his hand out to congratulate the runner-up on putting up a good fight357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
495495maladroit clumsy, awkward, inept whether in movement or in wordsadj.from French word of same meaning</br>It means clumsy, but with a hint of overall incompetence.</br>Syn: bumbling, bungling, butterfingered, ham-fisted, ham-handed, handless, heavy-handed, left-handed, inept, tactless, uncoordinated, awkward1. His own party criticizes what many call his <b>maladroit</b> communication on an anxiety-inducing subject.</br>2. a <b>maladroit</b> movement of his hand caused the car to swerve357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
496496malevolentmalicious; evil; having or showing ill will adj.Latin: male "badly" + volentem "to wish"=>ill-disposed, spiteful, enviousFailure made him <b>malevolent</b> toward those who were successful”</br> ant. BenevolentCommon GREMSU
497497bedeckadorn or ornament in a showy fashion verbDeutscher Stamm: bedeckenEach Advent we <b>bedeck</b> our front tree with a scattering of small lights. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
498498malleable1. pliant or pliable</br>2. easily influencedadj.Latin verb of malleus "to hammer"=> to be beaten by a hammerChildrens moods are often <b>malleable</b> since children are greatly affected by their surrounding357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
499499maniaobsession Greek/Latin rootmaniac</br> Beatlemania Greek/Latin MSU
500500maverick an unorthodox person or rebel, tending to choose a different path from everyone elsenouncalled after Samuel A. Maverick (1803-1870), Texas cattle owner who was notoriously negligent in branding his calves.His grandson, was also the only Southerner to vote against the anti-lynching bills in the 30'sMy <b>maverick</b> boss has made his fortune <u>by using a selling strategy different from that of his competitors</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
501501mendacity untruthfulness, dishonestynoun Latin mendax "lying; a liar"<u>A first sign of a new drug addict is their <b>mendacity</b></u>, not necessarily the effects of the drugs. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
502502-mentact of, result nouncontentment</br> amendment SuffixMSU
503503mercurial easily changeable, fickle, subject to sudden or unpredictable changesadj.Latin: Mercurius "pertaining to the god Mercury, having the form or qualities attributed to Mercury", ie. "light-hearted, sprightly, volatile, changeable, quickAs my sister has "<b><u>mercurial</b> moods</u> we never know how she will be feeling from one moment to the next.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
504504metermeasure Greek/Latin rootmetronome</br> speedometer</br> odometer Greek/Latin MSU
505505meticulous paying close attention to detailadj.French méticuleux"timorously fussy"<u>This accounting job requires a <b>meticulous</b> person</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
506506microsmall Greek/Latin rootmicroscope</br> micron</br> micrometer</br> microorganism Greek/Latin MSU
507507milk1. n. opaque liquid secreted by the mammary glands. </br>2. v. to extract by action similar to milking. to drain the strength from or exploit.noun, verb2. John became very good at <b><u>milking</b> his misfortunes for all the sympathy he could get</u>.HomonymMSU
508508begetproduce; give rise to verbword is usually used to refer to having children, although it can be used to refer to anything that generates something else “Abraham begot Isaac”1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
509509misanthropesomeone who dislikes people in generalnounGreek: misein "to hate" + anthrōpos "man"=>hating mankindHe was a true <b>misanthrope</b> and hated even himself.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
510510misnomerincorrect name or word for somethingnounself explanatory: mis-namedSome historians claimed that China was the likely source of the deadliest flu pandemic in history, the 1918 Spanish Flu — a <b>misnomer</b> itself.Common GREMSU
511511misogynistone who hates or distrusts womennounGreek: miso- "hatred" +gynḗ "a woman." + -ist"= person who hates women</br>misandrist=hates or distrusts menOthers stated the women were not the property of men and called the rapper a <b>misogynist</b>Common GREMSU
512512beguilemislead; delude; deceive by guile verbMiddle English, guile involves deceit, to beguile means to spend time pleasantly, even if it involves trickery.</br>Syn: becharm, bewitch, captivate, capture, catch, charm, enamor, enamour, enchant, entrance, fascinate, tranceThe car salesman <u>tried to <b>beguile</b> the customer</u> with an offer of free gas for a year.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
513513mitigatelessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent ofverbLatin: mītis "soft" + agere "to do/act" => "to soften."He was trying to mitigate the damage he had done. (n: mitigation)357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
514514mit</br> misssend Greek/Latin rootmission</br> transmit</br> remit Greek/Latin MSU
515515beleaguer1. besiege or attack; harass; surround with troops</br>2. to constantly request, ask or annoy verbDeutsch: belagern, stürmen</br>Syn1 besiege, circumvent, hem in, surround</br>Syn2: badger, bug, pester, tease2. The babysitter found the children annoying because <u>they <b>beleaguered</b> her with requests</u> for candy, cookies, games, and piggyback rides all at the same time1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
516516mollify1. cause to be more favorably inclined</br>2. to softenverbLatin mollificare "make soft, mollify"</br>Syn: 1. appease, assuage, conciliate, gentle, gruntle, lenify, pacify, placate </br>2. soften, season, temperShe managed to <b>mollify</b> the angry customer357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
517517monoone</br> single Greek/Latin rootmonocle</br> monopoly</br> monogamy</br> monovalent</br> monomania</br> monarchy Greek/Latin MSU
518518monotony boredom and repetitionadj.Greek: monos "single, alone" + tonos "tone=>"of one and the same tone"</br>Syn: humdrum, samenessHe had never grown accustomed to the <b>monotony</b> of his work357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
519519mor(t)death Greek/Latin rootmortician</br> mortuary</br> moribund</br> morbid</br> mortal=certain to die Morbid=gruesome</br> grisly Morose=gloomy moribund=dying</br> decaying immortal=living forever</br> unable to dieGreek/Latin MSU
520520muffler1. n. an object for suppressing noise. </br>2. n. a scarf worn around the neck for warmth.nounSyn: scarf2. Our mother would never let us leave the house without our <u><b>mufflers</b> and mittens</u> in the winter.HomonymMSU
521521mundane everyday, boringadj.Old French mondain/Latinmondulus: "of this world, worldly, terrestrial" Going about his everyday routine, <u>the mans <b>mundane</b> schedule had him bored to tears</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
522522munificent very generousadj.Syn: bountiful, lavish, handsomeAnyone with a few million dollars to spare can join in. The initial awards for physics, for example, were followed by equally munificent prizes in life sciences and mathematics.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
523523naïv inexperienced or gullibleadj.Syn: credulous, uninformed, childlike, dewy-eyed, round-eyed, simple, wide-eyed, credulous, fleeceable, green, gullible, ingenuous, innocent, simple-minded, unsophisticated, unworldlyHe was so <b>naive</b> and excited to be there that he didnt even really see an issue.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
524524benedictionblessing; invocation of divine blessing; expression of good wishes nounLatin: bene "well" + dicere "to say, speak"=>to blessToday <u>the Pope will make a <b>benediction</b></u> for all those who are sick and hungry.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
525525nefariouswicked</br> evil adj.Latin: ne- "not" + fas "right, lawful"=>"wicked in the extreme"</br>Syn: dastardly, villainous, wickedBatman and Superman are always fighting evildoers and stopping their <u><b>nefarious</b> plots</u>Common GREMSU
526526neglect to abandon or leave uncared-forverb/nounLatin: nec "not" + legere "pick up, select"=>omit to pick up, do or perform;Syn: (verb)drop, leave out, miss, omit, overleap, overlook, pretermit, fail, fail to attend to, disregard, ignore. (noun)neglectfulness, state of disuse, disregard, 1. (as verb) He <b>neglects</b> his children. </br>2. (as noun) The house was in a terrible <u>state of <b>neglect</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
527527-nessstate of adj., nouncarelessness</br> uselessness SuffixMSU
528528bilious1. suffering from indigestion; </br>2. appearing as if affected by disorder; sickly, green</br>3. irritable adj.root word bile, a foul green fluid made in the liver and stored in the gall bladder to assist with digestion3. Our <u><b>bilious</b> neighbor in Gempen was known for his bad attitude</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
529529nomenname Greek/Latin rootnoble</br> ignominy</br> nomenclature</br> nominal Greek/Latin MSU
530530blareloud, harsh roar or screech; dazzling blaze of light nounSame word root as "blären" in DeutschA club is allowed to <u><b>blare</b> its dance music</u>, but if you blare music at home your neighbours would probably complain1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
531531notoriety fame for doing something <u>negative or criminal</u>nounJust remember: Notoriety's not al-righty</br>Syn: ill-fameBecause of Johns <u><b>notoriety</b> for being a mean drunk</u>, he is rarely invited to parties where alcohol is served.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
532532nuance subtle shades of differencenounLatin nūbēs "a cloud", a shade of colourWithout understanding <u>the finer <b>nuances</b></u> you can't enjoy the humor357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
533533blenchdraw back, from lack of courage or resolution; turn pale, as if in fear verb<u>Had my escort <b>blenched</b> for an instan</u>t our fate was sealed - but our sign of confidence got us through 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
534534obdurate stubborn, obstinate, stubbornly refusing to change ones opinionadj.Latin: ob "against" (see ob-) + durare "harden, render hard"=>stubborn, inexorable, unyielding; hardened. </br> syn: cussed, obstinate, unrepentant, unregenerate, unregeneratedThe obdurate three-year-old refused to eat any vegetables, no matter how they were prepared.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
535535obscure mysterious or not well-knownadj.v. to cover something up or make it more difficult to perceiveFor some obsure reason, he decided not to go ahead with the agreed-to plan.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
536536obsequiousattempting to win favor from influential people by flatteryadj.Latin: ob "after" + sequi "to follow"=>to accommodate oneself to the will of another</br>Syn: bootlicking, fawning, sycophantic, toadyish, insincere<b>obsequious</b> shop assistants scutter about to meet the customer's every wish357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
537537obstinatebeyond stubborn,tenaciously unwilling or marked by tenacious unwillingness to yieldadj. obstinate is most definitely negative(although stubborn can be positive)</br>Syn: stubborn, unregenerate, inflexible, sturdy, uncompromising, disobedient, bloody-minded, cantankerous, bolshy, stroppy, bullet-headed, bullheaded, pigheaded, dogged, dour, persistent, pertinacious, tenacious, unyielding, contrarious, cross-grained, determined, hardheaded, mulish, stiff-necked, strong-minded, strong-willed, intractableThe more the parent pushes, the more <b>obstinate</b> the youngling becomes.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
538538blindside1. to take by surprise</br>2. to attack or hit on or from the side where the attacked person's view is obstructed verbTerm from US Football, 1968The Corona economic downturn <u><b>blindsided</b> many investors</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
539539obviate1. do away with</br>2. to preventverbLatin ob "in front of, against" + viam, "way"=> go against. </br> prevent, avert, avoid, debar, deflect, fend off, forefend, forfend, head off, stave off, ward off1. Doing one thing doesnt <b>obviate</b> the need to do the other. </br>2. If you want to <u><b>obviate</b> the risk of skin cancer</u> throughout your life, its important that you are protected from sun exposure from the time you are an infant357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
540540boisterousrough and stormy; loud, noisy, and lacking in restraint or discipline adj.<u>The <b>boisterous</b> crowd</u> rose to its feet, stamping their feet and loudly cheering for the football star after he scored a game-winning goal 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
541541bonnyhandsome; beautiful; pretty; attractively lively and graceful adj.presumably from French: bon= "good"<u>My <b>bonnie</b> lies over the ocean</u>, my bonnie lies over the sea, oh bring back, oh bring back my bonnie to me', sang the homesick soldiers.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
542542occult the mystical and supernaturalnounLatin occultus, = “hidden, secret.”Although the pretend psychic has no occult powers, she leads people to believe she does357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
543543offset1. to counterbalance or counteract </br>2. produce by offset printing technique </br>3. the distance or amount by which something is out of lineverb, noun1. My new car's ability to get 3l per 100km <b>offset</b> the rise in the price of petrol </br>2. He placed the rubber cylinder in the <b>offset</b> printing machine.</br>3. After the earthquake, several places on the ridge were <b>offset</b> by several feet357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
544544-oidlike (often suggests flawed or partial resemblance)adj., nounasteroid, tabloid, anthropoid, rhomboid, ovoidSuffixMSU
545545olfactory relating to smell or the sense of smelladj.One way to try to remember the meaning of the word olfactory is to think of factory. Your nose is the "factory" where odors are processed. What visual is to the eyes, olfactory is to the nose.Healthy, adult polar bears possess <b>olfactory</b> gifts that boggle the mind: they can smell a seal under the ice from over a kilometer away357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
546546oligfew Greek/Latin rootoligarchy</br> oligopoly Greek/Latin MSU
547547omniscience the quality or state of being all-knowingnounLatin omnis: "all" + scientia: "knowledge."Because he believes in Gods <b>omniscience</b>, the child is sure that his creator is aware of everything he does all day.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
548548onerousburdensome or difficult to endureadj.Latin ; onus "burden.The professional musicians expected their 8 year old daughter to practise the piano many <b>onerous</b> hours a day.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
549549opaquenot transparent or transluscent; dense; difficult to comprehend, as inopaque reasoningadj.Medical jargon includes many opaque terms like macrosomic, which describes a newborn who weighs more than, grams.Common GREMSU
550550bounteousliberal in charity; disposed to give freely; generously liberal; beneficent; free in bestowing gifts adj.Syn: bountiful, big, bighearted, bountiful, freehanded, giving, handsome, liberal, openhanded1. The farmers planting their crops in the spring <u>hoped for a <b>bounteous</b> harvest in the summer</u></br>2. The <u>bounteous <b>goodness</b> of God</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
551551opportunism the practice of taking advantage of opportunities as they arise without particular concern for morality or ethicsnoun Kevins <b>opportunism</b> led him to investing in any business idea he came up with, which in the long term led to failure357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
552552bounty1. copious abundance. </br>2. payment or reward (especially from a government) for acts such as catching criminals or killing predatory animals or enlisting in the military nounsame word root as bonus1. <u>A <b>bounty</b> of qualified, enthusiastic candidate</u>s vied for the companys newest management position</br>2. News filtered through that <ub>Moscow offered <b>bounties</u></b> to Afghan militants who killed U.S. soldiers.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
553553oscillatemove or swing from side to side regularlyverbThe pendulum <b>oscillated </b> from left to right357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
554554ossifiedturned to bone; hardened like bone; Inflexible:adj.The root is ossify, "to turn into bone" from the Latin word for "bone" os. The <b>ossified</b> culture failed to adapt to new economic conditions and died out.Common GREMSU
555555ostentatious overly showy in a way that is gaudy or vulgar, excessive display of wealthadj.Latin word ostentare, "to display,</br> Syn: pretentious, flaunty, flamboyant, showy, splashyOwning a mansion doesnt imply <b>ostentation</b>, but traveling exclusively by private jet certainly can357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
556556outstrip to overtake or outrunverb“If you want to <u><b>outstrip</b> the competition</u>, then you need to work out at the gym,” the coach told his athletes.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
557557overshadow to literally cast a shadow oververbv. to appear more notable than, to dominate, eclipse, to dwarfthe tragedy <b>overshadowed</b> the couple's happiness357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
558558painstaking attentive to detail, meticulousadj.Old English: paynes taking, "assiduous and careful labor"The technology seems to work but persuading the concrete industry to sign on is proving a <b>painstaking</b> and costly process357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
559559panegyrica writing or speech in praise of a person or thingnounThe Latin, L. panegyricus,: altered slightly to mean "public eulogy,</br>Syn: encomium, eulogy, paean, peanAfter the princess died a popular singer wrote a <b>panegyric</b> to honor her life.Common GREMSU
560560partial1. a. incomplete </br>2. v. fond of, showing favouritism towardadj.1. There was a <b><u>partial</b> eclipse</u> of the moon last month. </br>2. Clearly the woman was still <b>partial</b> to here ex-boyfriend357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
561561partisana fervent and even militant proponent of somethingnounThe bill introduced recieved <b>partisan</b> support from the party that introduced the bill357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
562562patently blatant, obviousadj.Latin: patere = "lie open" or "be open."</br>patently as an adjective serves to emphasize how apparent or clear your observation is. It's <b><u>patently</b> clear</u> that your 10 year old son hatesspinach."357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
563563paterfather Greek/Latin rootpaternal</br>paternity</br>patricide Greek/Latin MSU
564564bridleheadgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins noun1. With the <b>bridle</b> attached to the reins, the girl tugged the reins pulling the horses head to its chest</br>2. His common sense is a <b>bridle</b> to his quick temper.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
565565peccadilloa small sin or faultnounSpanish peccado: "sin" + dillo :diminutive=> a small sin.He ignored his children's <b>pecadilloes</b> of forgetting to say thank-you and pleaseCommon GREMSU
566566pedfoot Greek/Latin rootpedestrian</br> pedal</br> pedicure</br>podiatrist Greek/Latin MSU
567567brimfulfull to the brim; completely full; ready to overflow adj.brim is the top edge of a cup or glassMy parents are <b>brimful</b> of chicken and brocoli1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
568568pedantic overly concerned with irrelevant detail, fussy; showing a narrow concern for rules or formal book learning; making an excessive display of one's own learning:pedant, pedantry).adj.Pedantic means "like a pedant" someone who's too concerned with literal accuracy or formality.When the teacher covered my daughters term paper with red marks, I felt she was being way too <b>pedantic in her review</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
569569pedestrian1. n. As a noun, it's someone walking around — sidewalks are for pedestrians.</br>2. <u>adj</u>. boring, monotonous, run-of-the-milladj.Latin pedester meaning "going on foot" but also "plain."</br>Meaning 0f noun and adj. ver different !A large number of <u>people fell asleep during the <b>pedestrian</b> play</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
570570perfidiousdeliberately treacherous; dishonest (n: perfidy)adj.Latin: from phrase per fidem decipere "to deceive through trustingness.</br>In So in order for perfidy to happen, there has to have first been a sense of faith in place, which was then broken or betrayed.the <b>perfidious</b> Judas kissed Jesus on the cheekCommon GREMSU
571571perfidy treachery or deceitnounLatin: from phrase per fidem decipere "to deceive through trustingness.</br>In So in order for perfidy to happen, there has to have first been a sense of faith in place, which was then broken or betrayed.Judas' infamous kiss was a despicable <u>act of <b>perfidy</b></u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
572572perfunctory done without much effort, care, or thoughtadj.Latin: per "through" + fungi "perform"=>done mechanically or without interest or zeal and merely for the sake of being rid of the duty of doing it; done so as to conform to the letter but not the spirit"When we went out to dinner last night, the bored hostess <u>gave us a <b>perfunctory</b> hello</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
573573periaround Greek/Latin rootperipatetic</br>periscope</br>perineum</br>peritoneum Greek/Latin MSU
574574peripheral 1 .on the edge or periphery;</br>2. not centrally importantadj.Anything peripheral is on the margin, or outside Also a common term in eye exams, where peripheral vision is how far toward the outer right and left edges you can see. Peripheral also describes nerves from the body's peripheral system, which are secondary to the main system1. a. “Russia's peripheral provinces”, 1b. “peripheral suburbs”</br>2. energy is far from a peripheral issue in the economy357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
575575permeate to pervade or penetrate throughoutverbLatin: per "through" + meare "to pass"=>pass through</br>The rain <b>permeated</b> his pullover until he was drenched.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
576576perseverance persistence in the face of obstaclesnounPer=completely + servere=strictly=>enduranceThe disabled young mans <b>perseverance</b> allowed him to complete the marathon.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
577577peruse1. to read something carefully and closely </br>2. to read something informally or quickly (ie. Just the opposite meaning !)verb(context is important for this word)</br>Syn: browse or skim1. The customer <b>perused</b> the wine list in great detail</br>2. The customers <b><u>peruse</b> the bookshelves</u> in the bookstore357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
578578pervasive found everywhere, widespread; often has a negative connotationadj.As I entered the French restaurant, the <u><b>pervasive</b> odor of garlic</u> hit my nostrils357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
579579petulanteasily or frequently annoyed, especially over trivial matters; childishly irritableadj.The <b>petulant</b> child threw a tantrum at the supermarket when his mother wouldn't buy him the sweets he so wanted.Common GREMSU
580580phage (see roots section also) eat Greek/Latin rootphagocyte</br>phagocytosis Greek/Latin MSU
581581brindledof brownish, tawny colour, with streaks, spots, or patterns adj.Deutscher Wortstamm: brennen</br>has come to mean the streaky brown and gray color of something burned, especially on animalsPatches was a perfect name for the <u><b>brindle</b> coated boxer puppy</u> the boy adopted from the shelter1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
582582philanthropytendency or action for the benefit of others, as in donating money or property to a charitible organizationnounThe students were grateful to receive financial support from philanthropic organizations that promote education.Common GREMSU
583583philolove Greek/Latin rootphilosophy</br>philanthropy</br> philanthropist=one who loves humanity</br>philology=the love of words</br>philosophy=the love of wisdom</br>philatelist =one who loves or collects stamps</br>bibliophile = a lover of booksGreek/Latin MSU
584584bulwarkearthwork or other strong defense; person who defends noun, verb"The volunteers used sandbags to <u><b>bulwark</b> the levee</u> in an attempt to prevent the flooded river from overflowing its banks."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
585585phlegmatic cool and unruffled; sluggishadj.ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: unemotionalThose palace guards who wear the red coats and big hats and show absolutely no expression on their faces are <b>phlegmatic.</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
586586phob irrational fear, horror, or aversionGreek/Latin rootHundreds of words in widespread popular use in combination with native words, either with -phobia (what is feared) or </br> phobe=person who fears<b>phobe</b>=<u>person scared of</u> acrophobe: p.s.o heights, necrophobe: p.s.o dead things Ophidiophobe: p.s.o snakes, technophobe: p.s.o technology, xenophobe: p.s.o others </br><b>phobia</b> = <u>fear of</u>....acrophobia: f.o heights</br> aerophobia: f.o flying, arachnophobia: f.o spiders, astraphobia: f.o thunder and lightning, autophobia: f.o of being alone, claustrophobia: f.o confined or crowded spaces, Dentophobia: f.o. dentists, hemophobia: f.o blood, hydrophobia: f.o water, ophidiophobia: f.o snakes, zoophobia: f.o animalsGreek/Latin MSU
587587bursarytreasury, especially of a public institution or religious order; scholarship granted to a university student in need nounSame word root as "purse", Börse (German)BAFÖG offers German students <b><u>bursaries </b>to finance their university studies</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
588588pith1. soft spongelike central cylinder of the stems of most flowering plants</br>2. the essential substance of somethingnounSyn: center, centre, core, essence, gist, heart, heart and soul, inwardness, kernel, marrow, meat, nitty-gritty, nub, substance, sum2. Instead of getting to the <b><u>pith</b> of his point</u> and shouting "HELP", he instead said "I would most appreciate some kind assistance"357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
589589buxomhealthily plump and ample of figure; full-bosomed; vigorous; jolly adj.<u>The <b>buxom</b> waitress</u> earns more tips when she wears tight blouses.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
590590placate to calm, esp. an angry or upset person; to calm or reduce anger by making concessions:verbSyn: appease, pacify, mollify The professor tried to placate his students by postponing the exam.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
591591plasticrelated to being shaped or molded; capable of being molded. (n: plasticity n: plastic)adj.ic=nature of, likeThe artist like to work with plastic substances such as wax or clay, as they could be easily moldedCommon GREMSU
592592callowyouthful; immature; inexperienced; without feathers adj.Same wordroot as "Kahl", used to descreibe a featherless birdThe <u><b>callow</b> freshmen</u> at high school stood out like sore thumbs1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
593593canistersmall box or case for tea, coffee, etc nounIn the kitchen, my Mom keeps a <u><b>canister</b> of sugar</u> next to a canister of tea - both are round, of metal and have a fitted lid1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
594594plausible believable, reasonableadj.Plausible things are not far-fetched at all. Things in fantasy stories — eg. Dragons & unicorns - are not plausible. A woman becoming president is plausible, a giraffe becoming head of state is NOT plausibleWhen Jason forgot to do his homework, <u>he tried to come up with a <b>plausible</b> excuse</u> his teacher would believe.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
595595cankercorroding or sloughing ulcer; </br>2. anything which corrodes, corrupts, or destroy; </br>3. disease incident to trees, causing the bark to rot and fall off nounSame word root as cancer1. Some people are prone to getting <b>cankers</B> on their mouths.</br>2. My parents ight complain that the abandoned, run-down house two blocks away is a <b>canker</b> on your neighborhood.</br>3. When trees are under stress, they are more susceptible to <b>canker</b> and other fungal diseases.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
596596cantankerousill humored; irritable; marked by ill-tempered contradiction or opposition; ugly; malicious adj.Syn:cranky, bad-tempered, irritable, irascible.The <u><b>cantankerous</b>old ma</u> was uncooperative and difficult to get along with1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
597597plummet to fall quickly and farverbStock prices plumted after the crash357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
598598polarize to cause a sharp division between two groupsverbPresident Trump has a knack at polarising the American nation357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
599599poleinsell Greek/Latin rootmonopoly Greek/Latin MSU
600600polemical angry, hostile, harshly criticaladj.Use polemical to describe a controversy or argument that could end up as a huge conflict, because polemical refers to a major disagreementWith strong trade unions, <u>privatisation is a major <b>polemical</b> issue in South Africa</u>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
601601poliscity Greek/Latin rootpolitical</br> metropolitan Greek/Latin MSU
602602polymany Greek/Latin rootpolygamy</br> polyphonic</br> hoi polloi Greek/Latin MSU
603603ponderousheavy; massive; awkward; dull adj.A ponderous book is better than a sleeping pill.Common GREMSU
604604port</br> porto carry Greek/Latin rootporter</br> export </br> transport</br> portableGreek/Latin MSU
605605postafter Greek/Latin rootpost script (p.s.)</br> ex post facto</br> post hoc</br> post-mortem Greek/Latin MSU
606606cantatastory or poem set to music that can be sung by chorus, usually relgious nounLatin cantare "to sing"Bach wrote many famous cantata's, the most famous being number 140.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
607607pragmaticconcerned with practical mattersadj.ic=nature of, likeA pragmatic approach to legislation can be difficult given the complexities of politics.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
608608prebefore Greek/Latin rootpremier</br> preview</br> premium</br> prescient Greek/Latin MSU
609609precariousnot secure; beset with difficultiesadj. Latin: of precarious means "obtained by asking or praying." This fits well as precarious always signals that help is needed desperately.</br>Syn:shaky, insecure, unsafe, unstable, uneasy, parlous, perilous, touch-and-go, dangerous, unsafeGripping with a lack of shelter, homeless people <bu>live in <b>precarious</b> conditions</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
610610preceded went beforeadj.For precede, know that it's pre "first" + cedere "go"=>go before</br>Syn: antecede, antedate, forego, forgo, predatePres. Oboma <b>preceded</b> Pres. Trump, who superseded President Oboma357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
611611precipicecliff with a vertical or nearly vertical face; a dangerous place from which one is likely to fall; </br>metaphorically, a very risky circumstance, a point where danger, trouble, or difficulty beginsnounLatin: "headlong" and "abrupt descent"</br>cliff, drop, drop-offBecause of competition from the big convenience chains, the mom and pop store is on the <b>precipice</b> of closing its doors.Common GREMSU
612612capaciouscapable of containing a large quantity; spacious or roomy adj.same word root as "capacity"Since we have over five hundred people coming to the wedding, we need to find <u>a capacious venue</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
613613precipitateto cause (something) to happen quickly or suddenlyverbadj. hastily and not well-considered Old World diseases precipitated a massive decline in the American Indian population.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
614614caper1. a playful leap or hop, joke or game </br> 2. a crime (especially a robbery)</br> 3. pickled flower buds used as a pungent relish in various dishes and sauces noun1. Deutsch: Kapriole</br>2. Deutsch: Wortsstamm "kapern", aber nicht Seejacking aber Raub </br>3. Kaper (zum essen)1. Grandpa insisted he was<u> too old for that type of <b>caper</b></u> and wouldnt play such trivial games with us</br>2. Suspense oozes through this Netflix <u><b>caper</b> series</u> about a carefully curated team of robbers </br>3. Stirr the onions into the <b>caper</b> sauce.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
615615precursor a forerunner; something (or someone) that precedes another:noun The assasination of the Archduke was a precursor to the war.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
616616prescient knowing things before they happen, propheticadj.Latin prefix pre-: "before" + science: "to know"=> "know beforehand.</br>Extraordinarily <b>prescient</b>, the 1905 book accurately predicted what is going on in todays times. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
617617presumptuousgoing beyond what is appropriate, permitted, or courteousadj.It is somewhat <b>presumptuous</b> to assume you know more about medicine than your doctor.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
618618prevail1. to succeed, esp. with respect to vanquishing an opponent </br>2. v. to convince or persuadeverbLatin": "before" + valere "have power, be strong"=>be successful, have powerEven though our troops are tired and hungry, we will <b>prevail</b> against the enemy357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
619619capitalize1. to use something to one's benefit for advantage</br>2. to supply a company with capital/equity/debt </br>to put in capital letters verb1. The Sumo wrestler <b><u>capitalised</b> on his size advantage</u> to push his opponent out of the ring. </br>2. After the Corona-induced crisis, many <u>companies needed to be <b>re-capitalised</b></u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
620620prevaricate to evade or deceive without outright lying, avoid telling the truth by not directly answering a questionverbLatin: walk crookedly1. When we asked him what his intentions were, he prevaricated.(n: prevarication; prevaricator)</br>2. During the trial, the lead witness was willing to prevaricate in order to protect his friend.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
621621pristineimmaculately clean and unusedadj.Syn: clean, pureThe <b>pristine</b> freshly fallen snow covered the village Flims 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
622622probefore</br> in favor of Greek/Latin rootproject</br> projectile</br> Greek/Latin MSU
623623probity integrity and honornounFranch/latin probus "worthy, goodThe person who returned the stolen necklace to the police showed a great deal of <b>probity</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
624624prodigala person who leaves home and behaves recklessly, but later makes a repentant returnadj. Americans' <b>prodigal</b> devotion to the automobile is unique.</br>The <b>prodigal</b> prince bought lavish gifts and planned expensive events.Common GREMSU
625625captiousnitpicking intended to confuse in an argument adj.Latin: apt to notice and make much of unimportant faults or flaws</br> same root as capture</br>It is usually used to imply a permanent character or personality flaw, as opposed to a momentary lapse in understanding.When <u>my <b>captious</b> teacher grades my essays, she always finds a minor error</u> in my work.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
626626prodigious enormous, immense, giganticadj.French/LatinAs evidenced by Two-Ton Tina's weight, she has a <b>prodigious</b> appetite. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
627627profligate extravagant and wasteful, esp. in an immoral wayadj.Profligate behavior is a lot of fun, but you'll regret it later</br>Syn: debauched, degenerate, degraded, dissipated, dissolute, fast, libertine, riotous, extravagant, prodigal, spendthriftThe <b>profligate</b> ways of the Southern European states has led to them being seriously indebted during the financial crisis357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
628628proliferategrow rapidlyverbFrench: prolifère "producing offspring"Once introduced, <u>rabbits <b>proliferated</b> in Australia</u> as they had no natural enemies357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
629629carapacehard outer covering or case of certain organisms such as arthropods and turtles nounFrench carapace "tortoise shell"The small crustaceans <b>carapace</b> was not able to protect its eyes and mouth when the predator attacked1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
630630propitiate to obtain special favor from someone, esp. a powerful person or deity, by performing a pleasing actionverbv. to appease someone who is angryThey made sacrifices to propitiate angry gods.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
631631propriety appropriateness, manners, decorumnounThe students were instructed to behave with the utmost propriety while on their class field trip.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
632632prospective potential or likelyadj.Syn: applicable to the future</br>avoid confusing <u>pro</u>spective with <u>per</u>spective. Perspective, which can mean “a reasonable point of view,”Before applying to a university, you may want to visit the campus and could even <u>meet other <b>prospective</b> students</u> checking out the library, the dorms, and athletic facilities.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
633633psychmind</br> soul Greek/Latin rootpsychology Greek/Latin MSU
634634publicuspeople Greek/Latin rootpublic</br> republic</br> pub</br> publican Greek/Latin MSU
635635pulchritudinousof great physical beauty (n: pulchritude)adj.Latin origin </br> only used to describe people.<u>My <b>pulchritudinous</b> bride</u> was so full of grace, standing beneath our wedding canopy.Common GREMSU
636636pusillanimouscowardly, timid, or irreselute; petty:adj. The pusillanimous leader soon lost the respect of his people.Common GREMSU
637637qualification1 .The act of modifying or changing the strength of some idea</br>2. An attribute that must be met or complied with and that fits a person for something</br>3. A statement that limits or restricts some claimnoun1. His new ideas involves a <b><u>qualification</b> of his party's platform</u></br>2. One of the qualifications for admission is an academic degree.</br>3. Newton's laws are still valid, <u>subject to several extreme <b>qualifications</u></b>, such as speed of the body, etc. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
638638careenlean to one side, as a ship under press of sail; sway from side to side verbMiddle French carene "keel"I yelled as I saw <u>my drunk neighbor <b>careen</b> his car</u> into his house.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
639639quotidian relating to the everyday or mundaneadj.Syn: day-to-day, average, dailyThey are seers, and mystics unfettered by the quotidian, connecting with the divine and reporting back.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
640640rarefy1. to make or become thin</br>2. to purify or refine (n: rarefaction, adj: rarefied)verbLatin: to make rare1. A lack of calcium has caused the boys bones to <b>rarefy</b> and become brittle.</br>2. In <u>the <b>rariefied</b> air at the top of the mountain</u>, he was unable to run for longer periods of timeCommon GREMSU
641641rationalize 1. to attempt to justify with reasons that are only superficially valid</br>2. improve the efficiency, especially in production of somethingverbv. to repair a relationship1. president of Veneuzuela <u><b>rationalized</b> his country's disastrous situation</u>, repeatedly blaming the West, sanctions and those evil capitalists.</br>2. The <u>production process was <b>rationalised</b></u> by adding an automatic welding machine357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
642642reconcile to bring into harmonyverbInstead of spending a fortune in court fees, the two parties have agreed to see a mediator to <u><b>reconcile</b> their differences</u>.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
643643recondite arcane or obscure, not understood or known by many peopleadj.Latin/French e=back : com=with ; dere=put, ie. Put back again, hideSince I do not have a law degree, I find it hard to understand the <b>recondite</b> terms of the contract.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
644644refuteoverthrow by argument, evidence, or proofverbLatin: re=back +futare ="to beat", ie. To resist, repel, opposeThe evidence provided by the prosecutor will <b>refute</b> the defendants claim of innocenc357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
645645relentless never stopping, constant, unyielding, persistentadj.<b>relentless</b> and driven, the runner managed to finish the race despite his bruised ankle357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
646646relevant relating to the topic or issue at handadj.According to the judge, the witness identification of the suspect was not relevant because of her poor eyesight.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
647647reproach to scold or express criticismverbAs a law enforcement officer, Jack must always make sure his behavior is above reproach357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
648648reproofthe act of censuring, scolding, or rebuking. (v. reprove).nounOld French reprove "reproach, rejection"</br>Syn: rebuke, reprehension, reprimand, reprovalWithout harsh <b>reproof</b>, the mother calmly explained the reasons why the boy shouldnt throw the ball in the house.Common GREMSU
649649repudiate to renounce or disownverbDuring his next speech, the president will repudiate blame for the economic situation.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
650650carnagemassive slaughter, as in war; massacre; corpses, especially of those killed in battle nounSyn: butchery, mass murder, massacre, slaughterThe suicide bomber left immeasurable <b>carnage</b> in the mall.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
651651rescind to take back or retract (an offer or statement); to repeal or annulverbSyn: annul, countermand, lift, overturn, repeal, reverse, revoke, vacateIn 1933, because none of the expected advantages had come to pass, the government decided to <b>rescind</b> the prohibition act. 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
652652respectivelyin the sequential order previously givenadj.Each recipient was called up to receive their award, <b>respectively.</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
653653restive</br>restfulrestive is impatient under delay, duress, or control while restful is peaceful; having a peaceful aspect.adj. The horses, sensing the upcomping championship - become restive and were unable to get a restful night's sleep. Easily confused wordsMSU
654654reticenthesitant to speak, reluctant to draw attention to oneselfadj.adj. introverted or silentRather than voice her political opinions, Eileen prefers to remain reticent!357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
655655reverentfeeling or showing profound respect or venerationadj.During the funeral, humble and reverent silence filled the air of the sanctuary357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
656656rhetoric the art of effective communication (written or verbal)nounic=nature of, like</br>The senator will be a great president because he is big on action and low on rhetoric.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
657657ripariariver Greek/Latin rootriparian Greek/Latin MSU
658658sagacioushaving a sharp or powerful intellect or discernment. (n: sagacity).adj. Latin sagacitatem"keenness of perception, quality of being acute"</br>same root as "sage"</br>Syn: perspicacious, sapient, wiseobservant and thoughtful, <u>he was given to asking <b>sagaciou</b>s questions</u></br>Common GREMSU
659659salubrious health-promotingadj.Latin: salute and salubrious stem from the same salus, meaning "welfare, health.”<u>Broccoli, chicken and peanut butter are <b>salubrious</b> foods</u> which provide essential nutrients357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
660660sanction to give official permissionverbv. to impose a penalty for a particular actionn. punishments imposed for breaking a regulation357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
661661cataclysman event resulting in great loss and misfortune; deluge or overflowing of water nounGreekrom kata "down" + klyzein: to wash=>wash down as in Noah's floodThe terrorist attack on September 11, 2001 was a <u><b>cataclysm</b> of destruction</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
662662sap1. n. sugary liquid found in trees. </br>2. v. to deplete or weaken.noun, verb2. Chronic sleep deprivation will eventually sap the vitality of those who suffer it.HomonymMSU
663663sateto satisfy fully or to excessverbold English/German: Satt sein</br>Syn: fill, replete, satiateI will never be able to give my dog enough food to <b>sate</b> him.Common GREMSU
664664satiate to completely satisfy (with respect to hunger or appetite)verboften used in situations in which a thirst, craving, or need is satisfied. However, when used to describe eating, it can take on a more negative, or even disgusted, tone.Hopefully this feast I am preparing will <u><b>satiate your hunger</u></b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
665665saturninehaving a gloomy or morose temperament, sad and solemnadj.Early English, "born under the influence of the planet Saturn", then believed to be furthest away from the sun,so "gloomy, morose, sluggish, grave"As the widow accepted offers of sympathy at her husbands funeral, she struggled to keep tears from her <b>saturnine</b> eyes.Common GREMSU
666666cataractdisease of the eye causing its opacity and, unless treated, leading to blindness nounSam became blind in his right eye ten years ago, and now <u>a <b>cataract</b>is clouding his left eye</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
667667scopeexamine Greek/Latin rootmicroscope</br> oscilloscope Greek/Latin MSU
668668screen1. n. a flat surface on which to project an image. </br>2. N. a mesh designed to allow passage of some things while excluding others, as a window screen. </br>3. v. to select some items from a larger group. noun1. I scratched his TV <b>screen</b></br>2. He passed the sand and stones through a <b>screen</b></br>3. The applicants were <b>screened</b> based on their resumes.HomonymMSU
669669scrib</br>scriptwrite Greek/Latin roottranscribe</br> scribe</br> script Greek/Latin MSU
670670secular of or relating to the world or worldly matters (as opposed to religious ones)adj.Non-religious people are either atheists or agnostics. To describe things, activities, or attitudes that have nothing to do with religion, you can use the word secular.In the small village of Fallais, there was both a catholic and a <b>secular</b> school.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
671671sediment material that settles at the bottom of a body of waternounLatin: sedere, = “to settle,” or “sit.”After the flood waters receded, there was a huge amount of <b>sediment</b> left behind.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
672672sedulousdiligent; persevering; persistent: dedicated and carefuladj.Latin sedulus, with same meaning</br>Sedulous is <u>one of the 5 most common mistakes</u> made in the GRE!</br>(n: sedulity; sedulousness; adv. sedulously)</br> Syn: assiduous, painstaking, and diligentHis <b>sedulity</b> was there for all to see: he worked hard and never gave up easily.Common GREMSU
673673categoricalabsolute; having no exception; of using category or categories adj.Syn: categoric, flat, unconditionalMy boss's <u><b>categorical</b> denial</u> let me know there was no need to ask again. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
674674simultaneous occurring at the same momentadj.Latin :simul: "at the same time."The troops will carry out <b><u>simultaneous</b> attacks</u> on their enemies, bombing three locations at once357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
675675sin (sys before b</br> p</br> or m) together</br> with Greek/Latin rootsynchronize</br> symphony</br> sympathy</br> syncretic</br> syncope Greek/Latin MSU
676676slight1. adj. small, as for quantity or amount. </br>2. n. an insult or other act showing disrespect. </br>3. v. to insult or show disrespectadj., noun3. The director decided to list the actors' names alphabetically, so as not to slight anyone.HomonymMSU
677677solicitous1. considerate, attentive</br>2. full of anxiety and concernadj.Latin roots sollus "entire" and citus "set in motion=>restless, uneasy, careful, full of anxiety1. I like good restaurant service, but sometimes <u>the <b>solicitous</b> service in India</u> goes too far me.</br>2. The parents were <b>solicitous</b> about their children's future.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
678678solalone Greek/Latin rootsolo</br>solitary</br>desolate=lonely</br> dismal</br> gloomy</br>solitary=done alone</br> by yourself</br>soliloquythe act of speaking to oneseGreek/Latin MSU
679679caulkmake watertight by filling in cracks verbDeutsch Wortstamm: Kalk</br>Latin:Calx = chalk</br>modern:mit silikon abdichten</br>vorher war das Abdichtungsmittel eine Mischung aus Kalk und LeinsamenoelHe <b>caulked</b> the gap between the floor tiles and the wall with his caulking gun.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
680680sparse scattered or scarceadj.adj. austere and unadornedWith only a <u><b>sparse</b> amount of hair</u>, the man decided to completely shave his head357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
681681cavilcriticise for petty or frivolous reasons; raise trivial objections verb</br>Syn: carp, chicane, quibble, quiddityBecause my sister is so hard to please, she will <u><b>cavil</b> about the smallest of things</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
682682speciousplausible but falseadj.Her argument, though specious, was readily accepted by many.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
683683sporadic occasional or scatteredadj.Greek: "scattered."<u>In the mountains, internet service is <b>sporadic</b></u> so you will not be able to download videos.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
684684spurious fake or falseadj.Latin: spurius (n.) "illegitimate child"</br>Syn: inauthentic, unauthentic, counterfeit, imitativeIn the art-scene millions can be made with the help of so-called experts who can convert <u><b>spurios works of art</u></b> to authentic pieces via their certificates of authenticities.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
685685stolid calm and dependableadj.Syn: dependable" or "calm" but these can be overshadowed by other words for stolid — "empty" "blank" and "vacant,He was a <b>stolid</b> man who <u>did not even show his emotions</u> at his mothers funeral357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
686686strut1. v. to walk in such a way as to show great pride or confidence. </br>2. n. a support for an airplane wing or other projecting part.verb, noun1. The beau <b>strutted</b> up and down the boardwalk, as if he were convinced he was God's greatest gift to all mankind.</br>2. Because the <b>struts</b> were made of inferior material, the wings of that plane became unstable.HomonymMSU
687687subjective open to personal interpretation; not based in objective factadj.That Earth has one moon is objective — it's a fact. Whether the moon is pretty or not is subjective — not everyone will agree357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
688688substantiate1. Make something solid or believable, eg. to corroborate or give evidence of something </br>2. to strengthenverbSyn1: affirm, confirm, corroborate, support, sustain, </br>Syn2 :beef up, fortify, strengthen1. The theory was substantiated by a clear set of experimental facts</br>2. The president's trip will substantiate good relations with the former enemy country357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
689689subterunder</br> secret Greek/Latin rootsubterfuge</br> subtle</br> subaltern</br> subterranean Greek/Latin MSU
690690subversive meant to undercut established institutions or normsadj.Latin: sub,: "underneath" + vertere, "to turn."=> turn the system from underneath (by a sneaky revolutionary)The professor mis-used his lessons to teach <b>subversive</b> philosophies to his gullable students357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
691691sufficient enough for a given purposeadj.Syn: ample, adequate, decent, enoughThe blanket would provide <b>sufficient</b> warmth for the night.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
692692superblyexcellentlyadj.Syn: marvellously, marvelously, terrifically, toppingly, wonderfully, wondrous, wondrouslyThe soprano's voice was <b>superbly</b> disciplined357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
693693superficial1. only covering the surface</br>2. concerned with or comprehending only what is apparent or obvious;</br>3. of little substance or significanceadj.Anything superficial has to do with the surface of something1. The car only had <b>superficial</b> damage to its paint.</br>2. her thinking was superficial and fuzzy, marked by lack of attention or insight. </br>3. she made a few </b>superficial</b> editorial changesCommon GREMSU
694694celerityswiftness of action or motion; speed nouncelerity as in accelerate, with common Latin root "celer" = swift.Wei should never drink liquor because <u>the alcohol moves through his body with a celerity</u> that makes him act foolish in minutes.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
695695supplant to overtake or replaceverbSyn: replace, supercede, supersede, supervene uponThe computer has <b>supplanted</b> the slide rule357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
696696sycophant a fawning, insincere admirer, a person who tries to get what they want by excessively praising or complimenting someone in order to make them feel attractive or importantnounBecause she always kisses up to the teacher, Janice is considered the sycophant in first period.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
697697synthesize 1. to combine disparate parts into a coherent whole</br>2. to create via chemical reactionverbIt's becoming more common for doctors these days to <b>synthesize</b> Eastern and Western approaches to medicine357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
698698cerebralintellectual rather than emotional adj.French cérébral: pertaining to the brain. </br>Use as in Clever is from 1929John generally made</u> <b>cerebral</b> decisions</u> using intelligence and cold, hard facts, instead of emotions like his drama queen sister1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
699699tacit unspoken; implicitadj.Katie and carmella had <u>a tacit <b>agreement</b></u> that they would not mention the dented fender to their parents.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
700700cerebrationact of cerebrating; thinking, mental activity nounLatin cerebrum "brain"</br>Syn: intellection, mentation, thinking, thought, thought processAfter several hours of <b>cerebration</b>, the mentally drained writer decided to take a break from working on the article1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
701701taciturn reticent or reserved; tending towards silence; habitually untalkative or silent (n: taciturnity)adj.French/ Latin taciturnus "not talkative, noiseless."My shy brother is taciturn and rarely speaks in public.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
702702teledistance Greek/Latin roottelegraph, telephone, teleology, telemetry, Greek/Latin MSU
703703temper1. n. emotional state or anger, as in "she has quite a temper." </br>2. v. to moderate or to strengthen.noun, verb2. She tried to remember to temper her words so as not to offend her listeners.HomonymMSU
704704temperance moderation and restraint, sometimes used to specifically describe abstinence from alcoholnounLatin temperare, "restrain."Tim <u>exercised <b>temperance</b></u> whenever he went out, so he wouldnt drink alcohol at all.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
705705doldrumsperiod of depression or unhappy listlessness; slack period; state of inactivity nounThe doldrums is a seaman's term for an area around the thermal equator where there are frequenlty no winds, making sailing <u>slow and difficult</u>. </br>Syn abeyance, cold storage, deep freeze, dormancy, holding pattern, latency, moratorium, quiescence, suspended animation, suspense, suspensionAfter Jane underwent a painful divorce, she was <u>in the <b>doldrums</u></b> for quite a while.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
706706tenuous weak, flimsy, insubstantial,weak and likely to change; having little substance or strengthadj.The judge called the defenses argument tenuous and ruled in favor of the plaintif357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
707707timorous meek or timidadj.same root as "timid"=shy<u>The <b>timorous</b> kitten</u> would not come out from under the bed357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
708708exegesisAn explanation or critical interpretation (especially of the Bible)nounGreek: ex "out" + hegeisthai "to lead, guide"=> Deutsch Aus + führung im Sinne von InterpretationBecause the youth minister wanted the children to easily understand the scripture, he wrote <u>a simple <b>exegesis</b></u> of the passage.AMBRATMW
709709tirade (diatribe)an angry speech or rantnoun His tirade had gone on long enough.Common GREMSU
710710torpora state of motor and mental inactivitynoun tiredness, lethargyDuring the winter, the bears fall into an intense torpor.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
711711pertinacityPertinacity is a quality of sticking with something, no matter what. It's a type of persistent determination.adj.Latin: per "very " + tenicity =>very tenacious. </br> note spelllng, with "I" not "a" in ten<u>i</u>city</br>Syn: doggedness, perseverance, persistence, persistency, tenaciousness, tenacityWell-practiced in the art of <b>pertinacity</b>, he shrugged at not getting into the elite university, writing it off as another lesson from which to learn when applying for the next. AMBRATMW
712712tortuous winding or twisty. twisted; excessively complicated adj.Note: Don't confuse this with torturous.. Synonum complicatedDespite public complaints, tax laws and forms have become increasingly tortuous.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
713713usurpation1. Wrongfully taking someone's power or property by force, especially the seizure of a throne or supreme authority. </br>2. Entry to another's property without right or permissionverbSyn1 :capture, gaining control, seizure</br>Syn2: encroachment, intrusion, trespass, violation1. Some countries in South America have been ruled for centuries by a succession of generals who <u>ruled by <b>usurpation</u></b></br>2. AMBRATMW
714714prescindCut off abruptly or prematurelyverbLatin: pre- ="before" + scindere ="to cut/split"=> "cutting off" one's attention from a subject.There is an opportunity <u>to <b>prescind</b> from emotion</u> and think critically about this very important subjectAMBRATMW
715715transacross Greek/Latin roottransport</br> transcend</br> transmogrify </brtransit</br> transient</br> transvaalGreek/Latin MSU
716716transient passes quickly; short-livedadj.Latin transire, "to pass over"</br>Often used formally with the "nature", "threat", "source" & "cause"</br>can also be used for quickly changing things, like a transient feeling or facial expression</br>Syn:ephemeral, fugacious, passing, short-lived, transitory, impermanent, temporaryThe snow is <b>transient</b> and will melt as soon as the sun appears.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
717717turpitudedepravity; basenessnoun Latin turpitudo: "repulsiveness."</br>Syn: depravityPrisons are filled with criminals who have engaged in acts of moral turpitude.Common GREMSU
718718chthonicRelating to or inhabiting the underworld.adj.Greek khthonios "of the earth, in the earth"</br>Usually about mythological creatures, but also, perhaps about our creepy basement</br> word frequency: every 195 k pages!Rammstein's song "die Sonne" is filled with <b>chthonic</b> scenes of dwarf miners intertwined with Snow White fantasies.AMBRATMW
719719ubiquitous ever-present or universaladj.Latin ubique: "everywhere."</br>Syn: omnipresent, everywhereSingapore aims to cloak itself in <b>ubiquitous</b>, free Wi-Fi in the next few years357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
720720unadorned plain; unembellishedadj.</br>Syn:undecorated, bare, plain, spare, unembellished, unornamented“Yes,” was the <b>unadorned</b> and quick answer357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
721721undermine to weaken or compromiseverbDeutsch: untergraben</br>Syn:counteract, countermine, sabotage, subvert, weakenTammy tried to <b>undermine</b> the principals authority by taking complaints to the school board, so her contract was not renewed.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
722722underscore to draw special attention to a fact, idea, or situationverbSyn:emphasize,underlineThe director used music to <u><b>underscore</b> key scenes</u> of the movie357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
723723untenable weak or unsupportable, esp. with respect to an opinion or situationadj.A COVID strategy that says we stay completely closed to everybody for the next 12 to 18 months is simply <b>untenable</b>357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
724724utilisuseful Greek/Latin rootutility</br> utilitarian Greek/Latin MSU
725725hetaera1. Mistress. </br>2. Typically a slave or foreign woman devoted to private or public entertainment.nounGreek: hetaira "female companion"A number of the women had time to develop their minds in between flaunting their bodies, more like geisha girls, or the <b>hetaerae</b> of ancient Greece, than modern-day porn stars.AMBRATMW
726726vacuous1. empty; without contents;</br>2. void of expresssion</br>3. devoid of content. 4. no intelligence. adj.Latin vacuus "empty, void, free"</br>vacuous is a smart-sounding way to describe something dumb. </br>Syn:1. empty,</br>2. blank, non-communicative,3. asinine,fatuous, inane, mindless, foolish1. a <u><b>vacuous</b> space</u> </br>2. She <u>flashed a <b>vacuous</b> smile</u>.</br>3&4 his <b><u>vacuous</b> comments</u> did not impress anyone.Common GREMSU
727727venality the state of being capable of being bribednounFrench/ Latin: "capability of being bought"Apparently, there was no limit to former president Zuma's <b>venality</b>, with over 700 cases of corruption now being filed against him.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
728728fecundate1. make fertile or productive</br>2. introduce semen into (a female)verbarchaic use of fecundHow is the extremely complex human body with its various physical characteristics built up from the nucleus of a <b>fecundated</b> cell, the ovum?AMBRATMW
729729venerate to give a high degree of respect; may border on worship, great respect or reverence verbThe Chinese traditionally venerated their ancestors; ancestor worship is merely a popular misnomer for this tradition. (n: veneration, adj: venerable)357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
730730veracity Truth and factual accuracynounFrom Latin root: verax=truth</br>V<b>o</b>racious describes someone super hungry.. A voracious appetite makes you want to eat a whole cake. V<b>e</b>racious (with an "e") means truthful, as in a veracious child who cannot tell a lie.The police doubted the <b>veracity</b> of the suspects alibi.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
731731fulgurate1. the act or process of flashing like lightning</br>2: electrodesiccationverbLatin: fulgur=lightning1. from the <b><u>fulgurating</b> Milky Way</u> there shot forth streams of light</br>2. A high-frequency electric current is applied to <b>fulgurate</b> the biological tissueAMBRATMW
732732verboseusing or containing too many wordsadj.Syn: wordy, loquacious, long-windedThe instructor asked her verbose student make her paper more concise. (n: verbosity)357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
733733vexto annoy; to bother; to perplex; to puzzle; to debate at length:verb Franklin vexed his brother with his controversial writings.Common GREMSU
734734vexation state of being frustrated, irritated, or concerned.nounNote that Vexation is both something that causes annoyance AND the state of mind that results from being annoyed. </br>Syn:annoyance, chafe, irritation,<u>In <b>vexation</b></u>, I watched the neighbors dog poop in my yard357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
735735vide</br>visibil</br>visseeGreek/Latin rootvideo</br> vision</br> visibleGreek/Latin MSU
736736aegisto be sponsored or protected by someone/an organisationverbGreek aigis shield of Zeus</br>Syn: auspices, egis, protectionThe negotiations were conducted <u>under the <b>aegis</b></u> of the UNAMBRATMW
737737viscous</br>vicousViscous are liquirds of high viscocity, whereas vicous is a highly aggressive being or animal. adj. Honey is a viscous liquid, but Honey, our friendly dog, was not vicous. Easily confused wordsMSU
738738vanquishcome out better in a competition, race, or conflictverb</br>syn: beat, beat out, crush, shell, trounce, circumvent, outfox, outsmart, outwit, overreachIn the movies, the superheroes usually <b>vanquish</b> the villains. AMBRATMW
739739maenadic1. Bacchante, female attendant or priestess of Bacchus, whose festivals were celebrated with mad dancing and singing</br>2. acting like an unnaturally excited or distraught womanadj.Greek: mainas "priestess of Bacchus"2. The demonstrators primarily consisted of <b>maenads</b> discontended with all in societyAMBRATMW
740740voraciouscraving or devouring large quantities of food, drink, or other things.adj. She is a voracious reader.Common GREMSU
741741wag1. v. to wave back and forth, as a dog's tail. </br>2. n. A joker. someone who keeps people amused with humorous storiesverb, noun1. Honey, our dog, didn't have a tail to <b>wag</b></br>2. John's <u>reputation as a <b>wag</b> insured</u> he would be invited to many parties.HomonymMSU
742742wave</br>waivewave, n.=a moving swell on the surface of a body of water.</br>wave, v. =to sweep the hand or arm or some object.</br>waive=to relinquishnoun, verbwaive same root word as "weib", as women in the middle ageswere exempted from the law, as they had no rights. We <u>refuse to <b>waive</b> the reading of the indictment</u>.HomophoneMSU
743743preeminentsomeone/something considered to be truly outstanding or better than everyone else. Greatest in importance or degree or significance or achievementadj.Latin: praeeminentem, “to project forward, rise above"Everyone expects the young chess prodigy to one day dethrone Nikolas, <u>the <b>preeminent</b> player</u> in the world.AMBRATMW
744744waver</br>waiverwaver = vacillate or move back and forth</br>waiver = release or special exemption a ruleverbwaive same root word as "weib", as women in the middle ageswere exempted from the law, as they had no rights. Mike was not afraid of the bully and showed it by <u>not letting his eyes waver</u> from those of his enemy.</br>Most of the students <u>tried to get <b>waivers</b></u> of their overdue fines.HomophoneMSU
745745whimsicalFull of or characterized by whims, which are odd ideas that usually occur to you very suddenly. Playful. Spontaneousadj.Syn: capricious, impulsive, freakish, erratic It's hard to make plans with such a <b>whimsical</b> best friend 357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
746746wretchedextremely pitiful or unfortunate (n: wretch)adj.Poor Cinderella had a <b>wretched</b> childhood, living in wretched conditions with a wretched stepmotherCommon GREMSU
747747vivifybring new excitement or life to somethingverbLatin: vivus=life</br> animate, quicken, reanimate, recreate, renovate, repair, revive, revivify, come to, resuscitate, reviveHis remarks always <b>vivify</b> an otherwise dull discussionAMBRATMW
748748zeal passion or fervor, enthusiastic devotion to a cause, ideal, or goal (n: zealot; zealoutry. adj: zealous), Great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objectivenounSyn: passion, zealousness, fervorThe great emperors crusading zeal led him to conquer many land357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
749749upbraidFind fault with (someone)verbSyn: scold, reprimand, rebuke. </br>Deutsch: jdm Vorwürfe machen. Old English upbregdan"bring forth as a ground for censure"Mark 16/IV, King James version: Afterward Jesus appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and <b><u>upbraided</b> them with their unbelief</u> and hardness of heart, Least DifficultFT
750750weltera large number of items in no order; a confused massnounSyn: confusion, jumble, tangle. </br>Deutscher Wortstamm "wälzen"</br>Durcheinander, MischmaschThe classroom was <u>in a <b>welter</b></u> when the teacher did not show up for classLeast DifficultFT
751751winnowblow a current of air through (grain) in order to remove the chaffverbSyn: sift out, filter outMany lawmakers from both parties join Mr. Obama in <u>wishing to <b>winnow</b> Americas overstuffed prisons</u>Least DifficultFT
752752vitiateDestroy or impair the legal validity ofverb Syn: put an end to, do away with, scrap. </br>Deutsch: Beeinträchtigen, verderben, zerstören. </br> Lati"vitiare"= to make faulty. Same origin as "vice", therefore same pronounciation root "vishiate"As a child, I could never understand why my uncle could always prove, by taking his shoes off, that his toes were crossed while making the promise, thus <u><b>vitiating</b> his promise</u>Least DifficultFT
753753fringethe unconventional, extreme, or marginal wing of a group or sphere of activitynounSyn: peripheral, radical, unorthodoxFringe beliefs reinforced in these ways can establish themselves and persist long after outsiders deem them debunked.Least DifficultFT
754754garnerGather or collect (something, especially information or approval)verbLatin granarium which means "store-house" usually for grain=> ie. Storage, gathering.</br>Syn: accumulate, amass, assembleLabs that garnered more pay-offs were more likely to pass on their methods to other, newer labs.Least DifficultFT
755755gistthe substance or essence of a speech or textnounSyn: quintessence, main idea </br>Deutsch: Quintessenz, Kernpunkt<u>The <b>gist</b> of the matter is</u> Least DifficultFT
756756gossamerUsed to refer to something very light, thin, and insubstantial or delicateadj.refers to the similarity in appearance of softness between geese down and cobwebs,</br>Syn: gauzy, gossamery, fine </br>Deutsch: Hauchdünn.</br> As a NOUN it means a"goose summer", ie. referring to an autumn after a good summer -> "goose summer" (middle english)(Altweibersommer).1. Two days later, Taal Volcano erupted outside of Manila, coating the parked cars in Poblacion with a <b>gossamer</b> of white ash.</br>1b. Fairies are often depicted wearing a <b>gossamer</b> or tattered clothesLeast DifficultFT
757757grovel1. To crawl around on your belly </br>2.To beg, to be servile, suck upverbSyn: be servile, suck up, flatter. </br>Deutsch: Kriecherei, um Gnade winseln"If you've done something or said something wrong apologize, but if not, for heaven's sake, <u>stop <b>groveling</b></u>" she said.Least DifficultFT
758758perennialThings that are permanent through the year or multiple years (plants), constant/persistent, or regularly repeated (eg. Arguments over the same thing)adj.Latin: per "through" + annus "year"=>lasting through the yearsEvery election seems to continue to deal with <u>the same <b>perennial</b> issues</u> that have been the focus of all the previous elections.AMBRATMW
759759impetuousActing or done quickly and without thought or careadj.Latin: in- "into, in, on, upon" + petere "aim for, rush at"=> rapid movement, rush</br>Syn: impulsive, rash, hasty </br>Deutsch: unüberlegt, impulsiThe report holds many lessons, including for this newspaper, which supported the invasion of Iraq: about the danger of <u><b>impetuous</b> decision-making</u>Least DifficultFT
760760ingratean ungrateful personnoun</br>Deutsch: undankbar. </br> Latin: in- "not" + gratus "pleasing, beloved, dear, agreeable"Greater liberty over the past generation <u>is abused by <b>ingrates</b></u> who think it funny to depict their leaders pantless.Least DifficultFT
761761caducity1. the quality of being transitory or perishable</br> 2. senility( as cognitave abilities are seen to be transitory)adj.French caducité= "dilapidation, senility"2. Forgetting the name of an old friend was another painful reminder of <u>her progressive <b>caducity</u></b>AMBRATMW
762762indictmenta formal charge or accusation of a serious crimenounSyn: arraignment, citationA <u>criminal <b>indictment</u></b> would, in all likelihood, force the prime minister to resign.Least DifficultFT
763763inertLacking vigoradj.Americas founders believed that the 'greatest menace to freedom is an <b>inert</b> people.Least DifficultFT
764764laxNot sufficiently strict, severe, or carefuladj.Syn: slack, slipshod, negligent. </br>Deutsch: LaschMario Draghi has faced attacks from critics in Germany (<u>for being too <b>lax</b></u>) and Greece (for being too tight).Least DifficultFT
765765listless(Of a person or their manner) lacking energy or enthusiasmadj.Syn: lethargic, enervated, lackadaisicalAs the professor went on and on and on, <u>the students becoming increasingly <b>listless</u></b>, one even fell asleep and started snoring!Least DifficultFT
766766livid1. furiously angry </br>2. anemic looking from illness or emotion, bluish-gray (eg. sea, bruise, lips)</br>3. (of a light) imparting a deathlike luminosityadj.Latin: "bluish-gray. </br>Syn: 1. infuriated, irate, fuming</br> </br>2. black-and-blue, injured, ashen, blanched, bloodless, white, colourless</br>3. deathly1. A <b>livid</b> Vladimir Putin minced no words in his response, calling the downing a 'stab in the back'…</br>2. The <b><u>livid</b> bruises</u> on Judys face took weeks to dissapear </br>3</u>. <b>livid</b> lightning</u> streaked the sky”Least DifficultFT
767767lollSit, lie, or stand in a lazy, relaxed wayverbFrom Dutch: loll= to doze</br>Syn: lounge, sprawl, drape oneself. </br>Deutsch: sich rekelnThe pair </b>loll</b> on a green hillside at Murnau south of Munich where Münter had bought a houseLeast DifficultFT
768768luridPresented in vividly shocking or sensational termsadj.Latin lūridis, "ghastly, pale yellow" </br>Syn: melodramatic, exaggerated, overdramatized. </br>Deutsch: Reißerisch, grell. She asked the police officer <u>to spare her the <b>lurid</b> details</u> so that she did not have to have the shocking and ugly images put into her imagination.Least DifficultFT
769769to marImpair the quality or appearance ofverbSyn: spoil, ruin, damage </br>Deutsch: verderben, beeinträchtigen<u>These oversights <b>mar</b> an otherwise</u> engaging and interesting history of space, but then it is not unnatural for space to have a few gaping holes.Least DifficultFT
770770minceUse polite or moderate expressions to indicate disapprovalverbmostly used with "did not mince his words". Same latin root as "miniscule"President Barack Obama didnt <u><b>mince</b> his words</u> in a tweet on June 21st, the day after the Senate failed to pass four proposals.Least DifficultFT
771771miniona follower or underling of a powerful personnounSyn: henchman, yes-man, lackey. </br>Deutsch: Untergebener, lackaiIts <b>minions</b> have set up thousands of social-media bots and other spamming weapons to drown out other content.Least DifficultFT
772772mirth Amusement, especially as expressed in laughternounSyn: merriment, high spirits. Same root origin as "merry". </br>Deutsch: Heiterkeit.A further proposal, to cut the salaries of senior public managers by 25%, <u>has caused both anger and <b>mirth.</b></u>Least DifficultFT
773773modestnot excessively large, elaborate, or expensiveadj. Syn: ordinary, simple, plainThey can be seen in the <b>modest</b> dress, office decor and eating habits of Angela Merkel, the daughter of a Lutheran pastor.Least DifficultFT
774774moroseSullen and ill-tempered, feeling sad, in a bad mood, and not wanting to talk to anyoneadj.Syn: sullen, sulky, gloomyWhen her dog died, the little girl was <b>morose</b> for months.Least DifficultFT
775775muse a person or personified force who is the source of inspiration for a creative artistnounDeutsch: Muse</br>Syn: inspiration, influence, stimulusPicasso took a habit of painting his many <b>muses</b>Least DifficultFT
776776obliqueNot explicit or direct in addressing a pointadj.Syn: indirect, inexplicit, roundaboutThe slight wink was Larrys <b>oblique</b> way of flirting with me.Least DifficultFT
777777hauteupper, exclusive, highadj.French, literally "high"haute cuisine = high cuisine</br> haute couture = exclusive fashion </br>haute bourgeoisie = upper middle class AMBweb
778778overwrought(of a piece of writing or a work of art) too elaborate or complicated in design or constructionadj.wrought is old English for "worked". Ie. Overwrought=overworked. </br>Syn: overblown, contrived, exaggeratedShe made prodigious strides as a writer and learned to temper her <b>overwrought</b> outpourings.Least DifficultFT
779779pertainbe appropriate, related, or applicableverbSyn: concern, relate to, be related toReligious exceptions to the law, such as <u>those <b>pertaining</b> to</u> animal welfare, should ideally be ended.Least DifficultFT
780780pineMiss and long for the return ofverbFew DJs <b><u>pine</b> for the day</u> of ones-and-twos; the possibilities of modern technology are too alluring.Least DifficultFT
781781covenant1. (Bible) an agreement between God and his people in which God makes certain promises and requires certain behavior from them in return</br>2. a signed written agreement between two or more parties (nations) to perform some actionLatin :com- "together" + venire "to come=>agreement1. Before the battle of blood river, the Boers <u>entered into a <b>covenant</b> with God</u>, that they and their ancestors would honour the day forever, should He give them victory. </br>2. During the crisis, the company <u>broke its loan agreement <b>covenants</u></b> with the bank, and needed to restructure. AMBTCE
782782platitudeA remark or statement, especially one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting nounSyn: cliché, truism, commonplacThe politician ended his speech with a <b>platitude</b> about every mans right to vote. Least DifficultFT
783783plethoraa large or excessive amountnounDespite the <b>plethora</b> of movies offered by the video store, Jason always rents the same movie over and over again.Least DifficultFT
784784positPut forward as fact or as a basis for argumentnounSyn : postulate, propound, submitThe students were asked to <b>posit</b> their ideas about the dance through the school suggestion box.Least DifficultFT
785785chimericalfantastically improbable; highly unrealistic; imaginative adj.A chimera was a fire-breathing monster from Greek mythology made from a lion at its head, a goat in the middle, and a serpent at the end.His Utopia is not a <b>chimerical</b> commonwealth but a practical improvement on what already exists1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
786786prophetic Accurately describing or predicting what will happen in the futureadj. ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: predictive, visionaryIf I had <b>prophetic</b> abilities, I would be picking up my lottery winnings right now.Least DifficultFT
787787purist a person who insists on absolute adherence to traditional rules or structuresnounSyn: pedant, dogmatist, perfectionistDressed in a suit and tie, the <b>purist</b> raised his hand every time to answer each question the teacher asked.Least DifficultFT
788788pyre a heap of combustible material, especially one for burning a corpse as part of a funeral ceremonynounThe tribesmen were <u>burned on a <b>pyre</u></b> so the evil spirits could not capture their bodies.Least DifficultFT
789789quack a person who dishonestly claims to have special knowledge in some fieldnounSyn: swindler, charlatan, fraudThe <b>quack</b> claimed that consuming a few daily teaspoons of his miraculous snake oil would prevent and cure any signs of the Corona virusLeast DifficultFT
790790reticence the quality of not revealing ones thoughts or feelings readilynounSyn: reserve, introversion, restraintThe <u>shy wallflowers <b>reticence</u></b> kept her from talking to anyone at the school dance.Least DifficultFT
791791rueBitterly regret (something one has done or allowed to happen)verbDeutscher Stamm: reuen </br>Syn: deplore, lament, bemoan</br> don't confuse with "rue"=street in French1a.to his <b>rue</b>, the error cost him the game</br>1b. He <u><b>rued</b> the day</u> he took his first dose of heroin.Least DifficultFT
792792ruminateThink deeply about somethingverbSyn: contemplate, consider, mull overAlfred Sauvy, the French thinker, was prone to worry that the first world would become 'a society of old people, living in old houses, <b><u>ruminating </b>about old ideas.'</u>Least DifficultFT
793793chugechoic of a working steam engine. verbThe steam engine <b>chugged</b> along1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
794794churlishdeliberately rude, surly and sullen adj.Deutsch: gleicher Wortstamm wie "Kerl", im Sinne von Bauernhaft, grobThe new manager is not going to put up with the <u><b>churlish</b> employee attitudes</u> that have driven customers away1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
795795sublimeof very great excellence or beautyadj.Syn: awe-inspiring, awesome, majesticAfter the <u><b>sublime</b> meal</u>, we asked to see the chef so that we could give him our compliments.Least DifficultFT
796796surlyBad-tempered and unfriendlyadj.Old English surly's roots are in sirly, as in sir, meaning arrogant, haughty, and superior.</br>Syn: rude, snotty, sullen, mean and cranky can be added to the list of ill-natured, grumpy, glum</br> Deutsch:herrischThe <u><b>surly</b> man</u> was yelling at the waitress because he didnt get the right order from the restaurant. Least DifficultFT
797797syncopation A displacement of the beat or accents in (music or a rhythm) so that strong beats become weak and vice versanounShe dances an assortment of lissom steps, marvelously shedding shoes and socks as the <u>Beethoven famously shifts from solemnity to <b>syncopation</u></b>.Least DifficultFT
798798taunt A remark made in order to anger, wound, or provoke someonenounSame word root as the word "tempt"</br>Syn: jeer, gibe, sneerBut in the past two years taunts have turned into deadly attacks.Least DifficultFT
799799tawdryShowy but cheap and of poor qualityadj.Named after St. Audrey (with the "s" dropped off) </br>Syn: gaudy, flashy, garishMost people consider reality shows to be <b>tawdry</b> forms of entertainmentLeast DifficultFT
800800temperateRelating to or denoting a region or climate characterized by mild temperatures; exercising moderation and self-denial; calm or mild (n: temperance)adj.Syn: mild, clement, pleasantThe Netherlands, with its cool summers and mild winters is in a <u>temperate <b>climate</b> zone</u>. Least DifficultFT
801801terseSparing in the use of wordsadj.Syn: curt, brusque, abrupt<u>In a <b>terse</b> phone-call</u> on Thursday night, President Barack Obama paused only briefly to congratulate Mr. Netanyahu on his victory.Least DifficultFT
802802tome a book, especially a large, heavy, scholarly onenounSyn: volume, work, opusHe went into the old library and saw <b>tome</b> after tome in the massive heavy bookshelves.Least DifficultFT
803803torridFull of difficulty or tribulationadj.Torrid is an adjective that describes something that's extremely hot — in both the literal and the figurative sensesThe young man had a <b><u>torrid</b> love affair</u> with the lady next door.Least DifficultFT
804804transgressionthe violation of a law or a duty or moral principlenounLatin "act of crossing, passing over" from transgredi "to step or pass over."</br>Syn: offense, crime, sinMark went to confession to apologize for his <b>transgression. </b>Least DifficultFT
805805treacherousGuilty of or involving betrayal or deceptionadj.Syn: traitorous, disloyal, perfidiousIn <u>a <b>treacherous</b> move</u>, he sold the secrets of the atom bomb to the SovietsLeast DifficultFT
806806vapidoffering nothing that is stimulating or challenging; blandadj.Syn: insipid, uninspired, uninterestingMr. Silver delighted in savaging commentators who relied on <u><b>vapid</b> clichés</u> like 'momentum shifts' and 'game-changers.Least DifficultFT
807807vestige a trace of something that is disappearing or no longer existsnounSyn: remnant, remainder, fragmentHe said this would <u>remove a 'lingering <b>vestige</b></u> of the cold war.' Least DifficultFT
808808vilifyto utter slanderous and abusive statements against, spread negative information aboutverbvilify comes from the same root as the word vile</br> Syn: rail, revile, vituperateUnfortunately, the internet and social media have made it very easy for people to <u><b>vilify</b> their enemies</u>.Least DifficultFT
809809viscoushaving a relatively high resistance to flowadj.Syn: gummy, glue-like, glueyNot all barrels of oil are alike. Crudes can be <b><u>viscous</b> like tar</u> or so 'light' they float on water.Least DifficultFT
810810oxysharp, </br> bitterGreek/Latin rootoxy is a sub section of the Greek root "ac" = be sharp, rise (out) to a point, pierce. oxalic</br> oxide</br>oxygen(D=Sauerstoff...)</br> oxymoron(oxy=sharp+moron=stupid=>a word with composites of opposite meaning)</br> paroxysm (sudden extension of disease)</br>anoxic(lack of oxygen)Root wordsSMB
811811waftPass or cause to pass easily or gently through or as if through the airverbSyn: drift, float, glideThe acrid <u>scent of smoke <b>wafts</u></b> from his clothes.Least DifficultFT
812812wanton(of a cruel or violent action) deliberate and unprovokedadj.Syn: malicious, malevolent, spitefulOver the decades these Christian non-people, without legal or any other sort of protection, have been the victims of <b><u>wanton</b> discrimination</u> and violenceLeast DifficultFT
813813whitewashDeliberately attempt to conceal unpleasant facts about (a person or organization)verbSyn: cover up, sweep under the carpetIndeed, <u>in trying to <b>whitewash</b> the past</u>, the government may stir up prejudice instead.Least DifficultFT
814814circuitousbeing or taking a roundabout, lengthy course; going round in a circuit; not direct adj.Latin circuitus = "a going around."When I lost the directions to the restaurant, I ended up<u> taking a <b>circuitous</b> route</u> that made me late for my own birthday party. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
815815whittleReduce something in size, amount, or extent by a gradual series of stepsverbOld English:to cut thin shavings from (something) with a knife</br>Syn: erode, wear away, diminish1. The <u>carver <b>whittled</b> away</u> at a piece of wood. </br>fig. Democrats had spent a nervous September watching that lead <b><u>whittle</b> away</u> after Mrs. Clintons bout of pneumonia.Least DifficultFT
816816winsomeAttractive or appealing in appearance or character in an open and delightful wayadj.Syn: engaging, charming, winningAfter stealing food off the table, the dog begged for forgiveness by cocking his head and looking at his owner <u>in a <b>winsome</b> manner</u>.Least DifficultFT
817817wizenedShriveled or wrinkled with ageadj.Syn: lined, creased, witheredHis son, himself <u><b>wizened</b> old man</u>, had experienced too much to believe what he had just heardLeast DifficultFT
818818wryUsing or expressing dry, especially mocking, humoradj.Syn: ironic, sardonic, satiricalCatherine Merridale is one of the foremost foreign historians of Russia, combining wry insights with deep sympathy for the human beings.Least DifficultFT
819819circumlocutionindirect or roundabout expression; evasion in speech or writing nounLatin: circum "around, round about" + locutionem "a speaking,=>round about way of speakingI would never vote for a politician who avoids answering questions through the use of <b>circumlocution.</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
820820abasementhumiliation or degradationnoun Latin: ad "to, toward" + bassus "low, short" Literal sense is archaic/obsolete, only figurative sense valid today </br>Syn: belittlement, disgraceRepeated <b><u>abasement</b> and humiliation</u> by her abusive mother caused the mistreated girl to have very low self-esteemMedium DifficultFT
821821circumscribelimit narrowly; confine; draw a line around; encircle verbLatin: circum= "around" + scribere,= "to write."=>draw a line around,set the boundaries of, limit, restrain, confine, In court the violent suspects wear shackles that <u><b>circumscribe</b> their ability to flee</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
822822accessionthe action or process of formally joining an association or institution. Also, the acquisition of a higher rank than one is at presentverbLatin accessionem (nominative accessio) "a going to, approach; a joining; increase, enlargement" </br>Deutsch: Beitritt, Zuwachs </br>Syn: joining, signing up, enrollmentAfter its <u><b>accession</b> to the EU</u>, the country adopted the Euro.Medium DifficultFT
823823acerbic(Especially of a comment or style of speaking) sharp and forthright, expressing harsh or sharp criticism in a clever wayadj.ic=nature of, like<br>Deutsch: Bitter, Sauer </br>Syn: sardonic, biting, caustic<u>The writers <b>acerbic</b> tone</u> did not sit well with people who had an issue with harsh criticismMedium DifficultFT
824824cistern(underground) reservoir or water tank; Today, vessel to hold water for household uses such as watering garden, flushing toilets nounGreek word root same as Deutsch: "Kiste"Since the plants in our garden need water, <u>a </b>cistern</b> was built to capture rainwater</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
825825apostle a vigorous and pioneering advocate or supporter of a particular causenounSyn: proponent, promoter, propagandistThis <b>apostle</b> of anti-Americanism rejoices in the fact that the weakened United States need no longer be treated as an enemy. Medium DifficultFT
826826appriseinform somebody of somethingverbSyn: notify, let know, adviseThe <u>secret services are useful in <b>apprising</b> their governments</u> of the intentions of othersMedium DifficultFT
827827armada a fleet of warshipsnounSyn: flotilla, squadron, navyThis month he also unveiled plans to send an <b>armada</b> of tiny spaceships, powered by laser beams and equipped with all sorts of sensors.Medium DifficultFT
828828arson the criminal act of deliberately setting fire to propertynounSyn: incendiarism, pyromania<u>Fire investigators suspected <b>arson</u></b> when they couldnt find an electrical source for the fireMedium DifficultFT
829829clamorousspeaking and repeating loud words; full of clamor; calling or demanding loudly or urgently; vociferous; noisy; bawling; loud adj.Latin clamor= "a shout"</br>Syn: vociferous, noisy,blatant, clamant, stridentThe <u><b>clamorous</b> noise of the rejoicing fans</u> kept us up all night.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
830830barrage A concentrated outpouring, as of questions or blowsnounSyn: abundance, mass, profusionHe drove into a hailstorm and his car was damaged by a <b>barrage</b> of hailstonesMedium DifficultFT
831831bevy a large group of people or things of a particular kindnounword of unclear origin. </br>Syn: group, crowd, clusterBecause my mother wrote <u>a <b>bevy</b> of items on her grocery list</u>, I was in the store for nearly two hoursMedium DifficultFT
832832boor an unrefined, ill-mannered personnounSyn: lout, oaf, ruffianEnd a sentence in a preposition, and there are still people who will think you a <b>boor.</b>Medium DifficultFT
833833bucolicRelating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside and country life, pastoral, rustic, countryfiedadj.ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: rustic, rural, pastoralGeneral Electric. is now swapping its <b>bucolic</b> site for a collection of warehouses on the Boston waterfront.Medium DifficultFT
834834canonical(Of an artist or work) belonging to the literary or artistic canonadj.Syn: established, authoritativeThe medium now mostly consists of recycling the same <b>canonical</b> works by European men from centuries past.Medium DifficultFT
835835capriciousgiven to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior. mercurial, unpredictable, whimsicaladj.Syn: fickle, inconstant, changeableThe capricious supervisor would hand out raises one day and fire his entire staff the next.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
836836chauvinism Excessive or prejudiced loyalty or support for ones own cause, group, or gendernounSyn: jingoism, excessive patriotism, sectarianismAs recently as 2014, a biannual survey of right-wing attitudes in Germany found that xenophobia, <b>chauvinism</b>, anti-Semitism and authoritarian longings were declining.Medium DifficultFT
837837circumspectWary and unwilling to take risksadj.Syn: cautious, wary, carefulThis is an area where <u>we need to be extraordinarily careful and <b>circumspect'</u></b>, he said. 'Were literally talking about life and deathMedium DifficultFT
838838coalesceCome together and form one mass or wholeverbSyn: merge, unite, fuseAs they radiate away, the waves tend to <b>coalesce</b> to form two main shock waves.Medium DifficultFT
839839coffers the funds or financial reserves of a group or institutionnouncoffer = a strong chest or box that is used to store money or valuables<br>=Koffer in Deutsch, <br>but coffers= resources, money, financesThe new tax <u>filled public <b>coffers</u> </b>but later slowed the economyMedium DifficultFT
840840condoneAccept and allow (behavior that is considered morally wrong or offensive)verbSyn: disregard, let pass, excuseRashad Ali argues that deradicalisation can be worse than useless if practitioners, while condemningIS, <u><b>condone</b> other violence</u>.Medium DifficultFT
841841contritefeeling or expressing pain or sorrow for sins or offensesadj.Syn: regretful, sorry, apologeticAs the election results were coming in, a contrite Mr. Turnbull took 'full responsibility' for the governments poor performanc357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
842842creduloushaving or showing too great a readiness to believe things. gullible, naïvadj.Syn: gullible, naiveSupplements boast a unique trifecta: lax regulation, potent marketing and millions of credulousconsumers keen to pin their hopes of a healthier life on a pill.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
843843demurto object or protest to somethingverbdemur from French/Latin: de + mor (as in moratium)= to linger, to tarry </br>Syn: object, take exception, take issueMr. Sasse demurs. He does not want less fighting between the left and right. He wants more meaningful fighting about issues of substance.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
844844depravity Moral corruption; wickedness, state of being depraved, degeneracynounSyn: vice, perversion, devianceWe moved to the quiet country to <u>keep our children away from the <b>depravity</b> of city life. </u>Medium DifficultFT
845845derideExpress contempt for; ridicule. to mock or ridiculeverbFrench: de "down"+ ridere(rire) "to laugh"</br> Syn: mock, jeer at, scoff atMr. Trudeaus domestic critics—so far a minority—deride him as 'Prime Minister Selfie' for posing incessantly with fans and celebrit357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
846846diatribe a forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or somethingnounSyn: tirade, harangue, onslaughtCNN and other outlets were wrong to turn one disgruntled passengers Facebook diatribe into headline news357 prevalent GRE wordsFT
847847dictum a short statement that expresses a general truth or principlenounSyn: saying, maxim, axiomSometimes the old army <b>dictum</b> 'Dont volunteer for anything' must be brokenMedium DifficultFT
848848diffuseSpread out over a large areaverbSyn: scattered, dispersed, not concentratedThe political economy of trade is treacherous: <u>its benefits, though substantial, are <b>diffuse</u>.</b>Medium DifficultFT
849849dilateMake or become wider, larger, or more openverbfrom dis- "apart"+ lātus"broad, wide, widespread, extended" (as in latitude)="expand, distend, spread out, enlarge in all directions</br>Syn: enlarge, expandBy being able to increase heartbeat, while <b>dilating</b> blood vessels, theobromine can help reduce high blood pressure.Medium DifficultFT
850850discordantnot in agreement or harmonyadj.Syn: divergent, opposing, clashingMy friend believes that movies should entertain, but I insist that movies should inspire, so the two of us <u>hold <b>discordant</b> views</u> on the purpose of moviesMedium DifficultFT
851851divestRid oneself of something that one no longer wants or requires, such as a business interest or investmentverbWhatever it is, when you divest something, you get rid of it.The protesters managed to have the city to <b><u>divest</b> their holdings</u> in Apartheid South AfricaMedium DifficultFT
852852drollCurious or unusual in a way that provokes dry amusementadj.Syn: funny, humorous, amusingKaro Akpokiere, from Nigeria, will present a series of droll paintings inspired by the fast-moving pop culture that has emerged in Lagos.Medium DifficultFT
853853echelon a level or rank in an organization, a profession, or societynoun French échelon"level, echelon" literally "rung of a ladder" itself Late Latin scala "stair </br>Syn: level, rank, gradeThe social shock of the arrival of online education will be substantially greater if it devours the top echelon of public universities.Medium DifficultFT
854854eddy(of water, air, or smoke) move in a circular wayverbSyn: swirl, whirl, spiral. </br> plural = edd<b><u>ie</b></u>s NOT eddys<u>Leonardo Da Vinci</u> could apply his <u>research into eddies</u> to the main <u>aorta</u>'s valve closing mechanism centuries before modern science proved his theories to be correctMedium DifficultFT
855855effigy a sculpture or model of a personnounSyn: statue, statuette, figureThe tradition of lighting bonfires and burning effigies of Guy Fawkes began shortly after the foiled plot, and schoolchildren still learn the ghoulish rhyme 'Remember, remember the fifth of November.'Medium DifficultFT
856856elucidateMake (something) clearverbSyn: explain, make plain, illuminateOne was from almost 600 people who had completed. a questionnaire intended to elucidatethe different tendencies of people to engage in sexual relationships without a deep emotional commitment.Medium DifficultFT
857857endemicnative to or confined to a certain region, locality or peopleadj.ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: local, regional. Don't confuse this word with epidemic.One of the mysteries of epidemiology is why Asia does not suffer from yellow fever. The disease is endemic in Africa, the continent where it evolved. The disease was endemic to the region.Medium DifficultFT
858858epistemology the theory of knowledge, especially with regard to its methods, validity, and scopenounGreek: "overstand" from epi "over, near" (see epi-) + histasthai "to stand"Probably the coolest use of <b>epistemology</b>, though, is artificial intelligence: teaching computers how to learn.Medium DifficultFT
859859epithet an adjective or descriptive phrase expressing a quality characteristic of the person or thing; a term of abusenounSyn: name, label, smearPreposterous and absurd were among the milder epithets that could be overheard in the multilinguaMedium DifficultFT
860860errantErring or straying from the proper course or standardsadj.Syn: offending, guilty, culpableHe could admit the error and fire the errant speechwriter.Medium DifficultFT
861861clamorloud outcry; loud sustained noise adj.Latin clamor= "a shout"</br>Syn: howl, hubbub, hue and cry, hullabaloo, noise, outcry, roar, tumult, uproar, vociferationAs soon as the people learn about the little boys murder, they are going<u> to <b>clamor</b> for justice</u>. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
862862exemplar a person or thing serving as a typical example or excellent modelnounSyn: epitome, perfect exampleAt times 'Utopia' seems less an exemplar of idealism, and more of a satire on it.Medium DifficultFT
863863extolPraise enthusiasticallyverbSyn: go wild about, wax lyrical aboutThis is likely to become a media circus, with patient advocates likely to attend and extol the benefits of the treatments they received.Medium DifficultFT
864864cloyingdistasteful because excessive; excessively sweet or sentimental adj.Cloying comes in handy to describe things that are too sweet, both figurativley and literally.1a. My dad likes espresso so he feels Frappuccino too cloying.</br>1b. John liked to watch dark, edgy humor and thrillers, so he found romantic comedies with their hearts, flowers, and sappy happy endings <b>cloying</b> — <u>so sweet and sentimental - that they make him want to retch</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
865865fetidsmelling extremely unpleasantadj.Syn: stinking, smelly, foul-smellingThe fetid smog that settled on Beijing in January 2013 could join the ranks of these game-changing environmental disruptions.Medium DifficultFT
866866floridusing unusual words or complicated rhetorical constructions. flushed with a rosy color, as in complexion; very ornate and flowery: "florid prose."adj.Latin floridus "flowery, in bloom</br>Syn: extravagant, grandiloquentA victorious Governor Jerry Brown, his voice gruffer, his pate sparer and his metaphors more florid than during his first stint in office.Medium DifficultFT
867867floutOpenly disregardverbOld English origing: play the flute </br>Syn: defy, refuse to obey, go againstIt relies on its members, and on institutions. to shame and discourage people who flout important political norms.Medium DifficultFT
868868foible a minor weakness or eccentricity in someones characternounSame root word origin as "feeble", coming from French: faible=weakness</br>. Syn: idiosyncrasy, eccentricity, peculiarityThe elder Bongo had among other <b>foibles</b>, a liking to show off his pet tiger to guestsMedium DifficultFT
869869dole1. give out in small portions; distribute sparingly</br>2. money paid by the government to the unemployed verbGleicher Wortstamm als "teilen" in Deutsch1. Once a week the priest would do his rounds and <u><b>dole</b> out</u> food to the needy</br>2. Though he is receiving unemployment, Gary wants to find a job so he can get <u>off the dole</u> immediately1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
870870freneticFast and energetic in a rather wild and uncontrolled wayadj.Latin phreneticus, meaning “delirious.” ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: frantic, wild, frenziedHe scurried around the kitchen <b>frenetically</b> trying to cook a last-minute dinner for 30 of his closest friends.Medium DifficultFT
871871gall Bold, impudent behaviornounSyn: insolence, nerve, audacityWith enough gall and entrepreneurial spirit, it suggests, anyone can end up driving a Porsche and living in a marble-floored luxury apartment.Medium DifficultFT
872872dolefulsorrowful; filled with or expressing grief; mournful adj.French origin: deuil: to mourn</br>Syn:mournful, sadBecause Jane has not received any news of her missing son, she has been <b>doleful</b> to the point of not being able to eat or sleep.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
873873gambit a device, action, or opening remark, typically one entailing a degree of risk, that is calculated to gain an advantagenounoriginally a chess opening in which a pawn or piece is risked for advantage later</br>Deutsch = Bauernopferstrategie</br>Syn: plan, scheme, strategya<u>What began as a <b>gambit</b> to</u> hold together his divided Tory party is turning into an alarmingly close contest.Medium DifficultFT
874874goadstab or urge on as if with a pointed stickverbSyn: spur, prod, egg onHer words were meant to <u><b>goad</b> officials into action</u>Medium DifficultFT
875875cogencypower of proving or of producing belief; quality of being highly probable or convincing; force; credibility nounDeutsch: überzeugendThe defendant <u>gave <b>cogent</b> reasons</u> why he was innocent1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
876876gougeOvercharge; swindleverbThey <u>do not want monopolists to <b>gouge</b> consumers</u> and stifle innovation, yet they often struggle to determine the extent to which such things are happening.Medium DifficultFT
877877grandiloquentPompous or extravagant in language, style, or manneradj.Syn: pompous, bombastic, magniloquentThe authors give it a rather <b>grandiloquent name</b>: the desire 'to force destiny, to create serendipity.'Medium DifficultFT
878878grousecomplain pettily; grumbleverbSyn: moan, groan, protestSome economists grouse about such rules, which can interfere with the smooth functioning of competitive labour markets.Medium DifficultFT
879879hapless(Especially of a person) unfortunateadj.Syn: unlucky, luckless, out of luckBy the 1970s, many fans argued that the spectacle of hapless pitchers feebly trying to fend off blazing fastballs was turning their at-bats into a mockery of the game.Medium DifficultFT
880880homage Special honour or respect shown publiclynounSyn: tribute, acknowledgement, admirationOver the past year, numerous young directors have been paying gushing homage to the movies which enchanted them in their youth.Medium DifficultFT
881881imbueInspire or permeate with a feeling or qualityverbSyn: saturate, fill, suffuseSome feminists argue, moreover, that the very framework of economics is <b>imbued</b> with subtler forms of sexism.Medium DifficultFT
882882cogitatea fancy way of saying to think hard about, think earnestly or studiously; meditate; ponder; think deeply verbLatin cogitatus: "to think"After not progressing at all, he sat down and <u>consciously <b>cogitated</u></b> on what would be the right thing to do1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
883883impasse a situation in which no progress is possible, especially because of disagreementnounSyn: deadlock, dead end, stalemateBecause the two countries have <u>reached an <b>impasse</u></b> in their treaty negotiations, the war will continue.Medium DifficultFT
884884inculcateInstill (an attitude, idea, or habit) by persistent instructionverbLatin: in- "in" + calcare "to tread, press in"=>force upon, insist </br>Syn: imbue, infuse, inspireThe tests and ceremonies were to start <u><b>inculcating</b> a sense of common values</u> that had previously been lacking.Medium DifficultFT
885885indolence Avoidance of activity or exertionnounLatin indolentem: causing no pain, painless"The <b>indolence</b> of the Saudi society brought up to expect that oil riches will be lavished upon them is a large hurdle.Medium DifficultFT
886886inquest a judicial inquiry to ascertain the facts relating to an incident, such as a deathnounSyn: enquiry, investigation, inquisitionA jury at a second inquest ruled that they were unlawfully killed.Medium DifficultFT
887887cognaterelated by blood; having common ancestor; related or analogous in nature, character, or function adj.com "together" + gnatus, past participle of gnasci, older form of nasci "to be born"=>common originDutchmen speak German easily because their language is <b>cognate</b> to German1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
888888itinerantTraveling from place to placeadj.Syn: peripatetic, wandering, rovingMy father is an <b>itinerant</b>, spending weeks a year on a planeMedium DifficultFT
889889colanderbowl-shaped strainer, used to wash or drain foods nounLatin colatorium "strainer"After the spaghetti was cooked, he emptied the entire pot contents into a <b>colander</b> to drain the water from the pasta1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
890890largesselarge generosity, liberality in bestowing gifts; extremely liberal and generous of spiritnounSyn: liberality, munificence, magnanimity, openhandedness, giftAll else equal, such <b>largesse</b> should indeed give the economy some temporary vim.Medium DifficultFT
891891leeryCautious or wary due to realistic suspicionsadj.Syn: careful, circumspect, on one's guardThe past two decades have left working-class voters in many countries <b>leery </b>of globalisation.Medium DifficultFT
892892limpid1. clear, serene and bright (often liquids) </br>2. (of language) transparently clear; easily understandableadj.Syn: 1. crystal clear, crystalline, lucid, pellucid, transparent </br>Syn 2. lucid, plain, understandable1. I could see the sand on the bottom of the <b>limpid</b> mountain pool</br>2. He writes in a <b>limpid</b> styleMedium DifficultFT
893893loquaciousTending to talk a great dealadj.Syn: talkative, voluble, communicativeThe <b>loquacious</b> professor was known for his five-hour lectures.Medium DifficultFT
894894collateto assemble something in a logical sequence verbLatin: com "with, together" + lātus "borne, carried"=to bring together</br>collate specifically means to put pages in a correct order, but can be used more generally to mean to put anything into the proper sequence. </br>Syn: sort, orderThe clerk will <b><u>collate</b> the folders</u> into stacks based on the spelling of the clients last name.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
895895malignevil in nature or effectadj.Syn: harmful, bad, malevolentOther, darker interpretations of what malign force the monster may represent once again abound.Medium DifficultFT
896896maudlinSelf-pityingly or tearfully sentimentaladj.Maudlin was a form of the name Mary Magdalene, often represented in paintings as a weeping sinner asking forgiveness from Jesus.</br>Syn: emotional, tearful, lachrymoseshe posted <b>maudlinly</b> on social media about her excess weight and receive no likes.Medium DifficultFT
897897milieu a persons social environmentnounSyn: sphere, background, backdropArmed with a view of themselves in a seething milieu of particles careening around a stretchy space-time, readers are reminded they are 'an integral part of the world which we perceive.'Medium DifficultFT
898898mireinvolve someone or something in (a difficult situation)verbOld English: deep mud, bog, marsh, swampland</br>Deutsch Wortstamm "Masch"</br>Syn: entangle, tangle up, embroilMs Park is hopelessly <b>mired</b> in an ever-deepening influence-peddling scandal.Medium DifficultFT
899899modishConforming to or following what is currently popular and fashionableadj.Gleicher Wortstamm wie "Mode" in Deutsch </br>Syn: modern, trendy, inWith these <b>modish</b> safety demonstrations becoming the norm, the question is what, exactly, do they accomplish?Medium DifficultFT
900900collateral1. adj. accompanying; concomitant</br> 2. adj. descended from a common ancestor but through different lines</br> 3. n a security pledged for the repayment of a loanguarantee, usually in the form of an asset, for the repayment of a loan if one cannot procure enough funds to repayadj., nounLatin com "with, together" + lateralis "of the side=>accompanying1. The paper machine supply contract specifically<u> limited <b>collateral</b> damage</u> due to loss of paper sales revenue caused by late machine delivery to 10% of contract value.</br>2. David and Alexander have Opa as a <u><b>collateral</b> ancestor</u></br>3. Banks only give you a loan if you can <u>provide sufficient <b>collateral</u>.</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
901901nascentjust coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potentialadj.Latin: nat=birth + escent= emerging from => just coming into existence</br>Syn: emerging</br> beginning</br> dawningWeakening the legislature in a <b>nascent</b> democracy will not fix corruption by itself.Medium DifficultFT
902902natty(of a person or an article of clothing) smart and fashionableadj.Gleicher Wortstamm wie "nett"</br>Syn: stylish, dapper, debonairAlthough the <u><b>natty</b> clothing</u> was just her style, Terra couldnt afford the boutiques steep price tags.Medium DifficultFT
903903nexus a connection or series of connections linking two or more thingsnounLatin: nectere= "to bind or tie."</br> Syn: union, linkToday Facebook seems to be the <b>nexus</b> of communicationMedium DifficultFT
904904nonplussed(Of a person) surprised and confused so much that they are unsure how to reactadj.Latin: non plus="no more, no further." =>go no further as I am confused, perplexed</br>Hat NICHTS mit "nonplus ultra" zu tun</br>Syn: baffled, confounded, at a loss, puzzled, perplexedThe inexperienced teenage <u>driver was <b>nonplussed</b> when his car began to slide on the ice</u>.Medium DifficultFT
905905normativeEstablishing, relating to, or deriving from a standard or normadj.Same word root as "norm" and "normal"</br>The Japanese philosopher was highly critical of the <b><u>normative</b> thought</u> in the Japanese education systemMedium DifficultFT
906906opineHold and state as ones opinionverbSyn: suggest, say, declareRather than disagree with my husband in public, I waited until we got home to opine my thoughts on the subject.Medium DifficultFT
907907pallid(of a person's face) pale, typically because of poor healthadj.Syn: white, pasty, wanHis pallid complexion is a definite indication that he spends all his time indoorsMedium DifficultFT
908908panache Flamboyant confidence of style or mannernounSyn: self-assurance, style, flairDanielle always wears her stylish outfits with panache.Medium DifficultFT
909909paragon a person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular qualitynounSyn: model, epitome, exemplar</br>Deutsch: ParadebeispielAs a paragon of purity, a nun would never dress inappropriatelyMedium DifficultFT
910910parryAnswer (a question or accusation) evasivelyverbFrench: "to turn aside or ward off" the blow of a weapon.Parez! Is often heard in fencing lessons</br>Syn: evade, sidestep, avoidIn the course of his business career, the president-elect has shown a remarkable ability <u>to dodge and <b>parry</u></b> and reverse himself on everything.Medium DifficultFT
911911penchant A strong or habitual liking for something or tendency to do somethingnounFrench: to incline :</br>Syn: fondness, inclination, preferenceAlex has a <u><b>penchant </b>for chicken and broccoli,</u> so he eats it daily or wishes he didMedium DifficultFT
912912pithy(of language or style) terse and vigorously expressiveadj.Syn: concise, brief, compactThe best greeting card messages are <b>pithy</b> and meaningful.Medium DifficultFT
913913commentariatall commentators of the news media collectively nounThe political <b>commentariat</b> is beginning to say Mr. Trump has no chance of re-election.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
914914commodiousspacious and comfortable; fit; proper; convenient adj. Latin: commodiosus "convenient, useful", which was used for "commodes"= toilet when one had "room to spare"All the bedrooms in Maierhofer Halde are <b>commodious</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
915915presagebe a sign or warning of (an imminent event, typically an unwelcome one)verbSyn: point to, mean, signifyDark clouds normally presage a stormMedium DifficultFT
916916prolific(of an artist, author, or composer) producing many worksadj.ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: productive, creative, inventiveIt is true that few artists have been so prolific. On average, he released a studio album every year.Medium DifficultFT
917917proxy a person authorized to act on behalf of anothernounSyn: representative, substitute, stand-inDuring the action sequence, a stand-in will act as a proxy for the A-list actor.Medium DifficultFT
918918prudishhaving a tendency to be easily shocked by matters relating to sex or nudityadj.Syn: puritanical, prim, goody-goodyMy grandmothers narrowminded and prudish viewpoints do not line up with todays world viewsMedium DifficultFT
919919qualm an uneasy feeling of doubt, worry, or fearnounSyn: misgiving, doubt, reservationI have a serious qualm about my teenage daughter dating an older man.Medium DifficultFT
920920quellSuppress (a feeling, especially an unpleasant one)verbSyn: calm, soothe, pacifyThe old man drinks warm milk to quell his upset stomach.Medium DifficultFT
921921quibbleArgue or raise objections about a trivial matterverbSyn: object to, criticize, nitpickIt is normal for married couples to quibble over small things like who controls the television remoteMedium DifficultFT
922922compunctionfeeling of deep regret; strong uneasiness caused by a sense of guilt nounLatin :com- + pungere "to prick, pierce" => prick sharply</br>remorse, self-reproachThe burglar acted <u>without <b>compunction</b></u> when he stole the bicycle. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
923923recalcitranthaving an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authorityadj.Syn: uncooperative, intractableOver time, the hopeless soldiers became recalcitrant and refused to follow ordersMedium DifficultFT
924924recantSay that one no longer holds an opinion or beliefverbSyn: renounce, disavow, retractThe judge ordered the magazine to recant the false statements it made about the actress.Medium DifficultFT
925925salientMost noticeable or importantadj.Syn: conspicuous, noticeable, obviousThe reason for that emphasis may in part be because of the <b>salient</b> threat of terrorismMedium DifficultFT
926926sardonicgrimly mocking or cynicaladj.ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: satirical, sarcastic, ironicMs Jefferson, it must be said, is a master of the arched-eyebrow, <b>sardonic</b> quip.Medium DifficultFT
927927savant a learned person, especially a distinguished scientistnounSyn: intellectual, scholar, sageSince my aunt speaks over twenty languages, she is considered a verbal <b>savant.</b>Medium DifficultFT
928928soliloquy an act of speaking ones thoughts aloud when by oneself, especially by a character in a playnounSyn: monologue, speechPatrick Stewart, for instance, reworked <u>Hamlets <b>soliloquy</b></u> as an ode to the letter B ('B or not a B, that is the question')Medium DifficultFT
929929stigma a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or personnounSyn: shame, disgrace, dishonourA stigma against adults having fun, strong in the aftermath of the Second World War, has faded.Medium DifficultFT
930930stipulateDemand or specify (a requirement), typically as part of a bargain or agreementverbSyn: set down, set out, lay downIn trade negotiations, size matters. Larger economies can stipulate terms that suit them.Medium DifficultFT
931931stratum a thin layer within any structurenounSyn: level, class, echelonBut exalting Western aviation security to a higher stratum than that found in Africa is a delusion.Medium DifficultFT
932932subpoena A writ ordering a person to attend a courtnounSyn: summons, mandate, court orderSubpoenas issued by a federal grand jury earlier this year demanded that the Port Authority hand over Mr. Samsons personal travel records.Medium DifficultFT
933933syntax the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a languagenounFench/Latin/Greek: syn- "together" + tassein "arrange" (same word root as tactics)=> arranging it all together.The <b>syntax</b> in Jans sentences is incorrect as he doesn't follow the correct adjective sequence, viz: OSS-CAC-POMP, which stands for Opinion, Size, Shape, - Condition, Age, Color-, Pattern, Origin, Material & PurposeMedium DifficultFT
934934tenet a principle or beliefnounSyn: doctrine, precept, creedIn the Warren and Burger courts of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, religious accommodation was a liberal tenet.Medium DifficultFT
935935concomitant1. adj. following or accompanying as a consequence</br>2. n. An event associated with or happening at the same time. adj., nounLatin: con =with + comit=companion=>ompanion of the main event1. The concamitant effect of fitness training is a healthy glow and more happiness. </br>2. Doctors now <u> administer several <b>concomitant</b> drugs</u> to the patient in order to prevent the onset of AIDS. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
936936urbane(Of a person, especially a man) courteous and refined in manner. Urbane people are sophisticated, polished, cultured, refined.adj.Syn: suave, sophisticated, debonairEverything from the mans tailored suit to his Italian shoes and expensive watch screamed <b>urbane</b>Medium DifficultFT
937937concubinein certain societies, such as imperial China, a woman contracted to a man as a secondary wife, often having few legal rights and low social status nounLatin: com "with, together" + cubare "to lie down"=>mistressThough he loved his<b> concubine</b> the most, the king decided long ago just to have one wife.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
938938whet1. To sharpen </br>2. Excite or stimulate (someone's desire, curiosity, interest, or appetite)verbDeutsch: wetzen</br>Syn: arouse, rouse, trigger1. He sharpened (<b>whetted</b>) the knife's blade with a <u>whetting stone</u></br>2. As I walked up my grandmothers steps, I realized the smell of her food was enough to <u><b>whet</b> my appetite</u>Medium DifficultFT
939939abeyancetemporary cessation or suspensionnoun French à"at" (see ad-) + ba(y)er "be open" = status is still open/in suspence. The word "bay" also come this. </br>Syn: suspense, remission, reserveWith the football leagues now <u>in <b>abeyance</b> during Corona crisis</u>, the question now is how and whether the season will finishMost DifficultFT
940940conscientiousthorough, careful, or vigilant; implies a desire to do a task well; characterized by extreme care and great effort adj.</br>Syn: conscionable, ethical, honest, honorable, just, moral, principled, scrupulous1a.Everyone knew him to work hard and with great care and were convinced that he would continue with the <b>conscientious</b> application to the work at hand</br>1b. Because my brother is a <u>conscientious <b>objector</u></b>, he refuses to serve in the military.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
941941anodynenot likely to cause offence or disagreement and somewhat dulladj. Greek an= "without" + odyne "pain= "free pain or torment" "</br>Syn: bland, inoffensive, innocuousAfter days of discussion at the G20 conference, there was not much to show other than a <u>dull and safe <b>anodyne</b> communique</u>Most DifficultFT
942942bilkObtain or withhold money from (someone) by deceit or without justificationverbSyn: swindle, defraud, deceiveBecause the police in that country are not paid regularly, they <b>bilk</b> the system and get away with it, as their bosses have the same issue.Most DifficultFT
943943canard an unfounded rumor or storynoun French canard "a hoax" literally "a duck" </br>Syn: piece of gossip, whisperThe newspaper claimed to identify a man living in California as the real masatermind behind the plot, but this turned out to be <u>an embarrassing <b>canard.</b></u>Most DifficultFT
944944catalyst a person or thing that precipitates an event. something that speeds up a process or causes action. an agent of change (adj: catalytic; v. catalyze)nounSyn: stimulus, impetus, sparkJakes termination from his job was the catalyst for his change of charact357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
945945catharsis the process of releasing and providing relief from strong or repressed emotionsnoun Latinized form of Greek katharsis " a bodily purging, cleansing - (especially of the bowels) - now generally used in an emotional sense. </br>Syn: emotional release, reliefCrying is a great <u><b>catharsis</b> for releasing pain and anger</u>.Most DifficultFT
946946cloture (in a legislative assembly) a procedure for ending a debate and taking a votenounThe French word for "closure", with the "s" dropped out, like hopital/hospitalYou need majority support of parliamentarians to <u>invoke <b>cloture</u> </b>and end the filibuster.Most DifficultFT
947947compendiuma publication containing a variety of worksnounSyn: compilation, anthologyThe entertainer relies on a crowdsourced <b>compendium</b> of fishermens tales and jokes.Most DifficultFT
948948conscriptEnlist (someone) compulsorilyverbSyn: draft, recruit, call upMost Israelis are <u><b>conscripted</b> into the military</u>Most DifficultFT
949949cosset1. a pet lamb</br>2. Care for and protect in an overindulgent wayverbDeutsch: 1. Hauslamm,</br>2. verhätscheln</br>Syn: indulge, panderFrom buying expensive toys to boxing vegetable-free lunches, the mother would <u><b>cosset</b> to her child's every whim</u>Most DifficultFT
950950coterie a small group of people with shared interests or tastesnoun French coterie "circle of acquaintances" originally in Middle French an organization of peasants holding land a feudal lord cotier "tenant of a cote" </br>Syn: clique, circle, inner circleHe rules through a tight <b>coterie</b> of loyal aidesMost DifficultFT
951951daguerreotype A photograph taken by an early photographic process employing an iodine-sensitized silvered plate and mercury vapornounNamed after the French inventor of early Ag/Hg photograhy: L. DaguerreHe showed her a plate <b>daguerreotype</b> of a stern-looking Victorian ancestor Most DifficultFT
952952dilettante a person who cultivates an area of interest without real commitment or knowledge. someone with an amateur, nonserious interest in somethingnounSyn: dabbler, potterer, tinkererThis is not the work of a dilettante, but a strong follow-up to her acclaimed short stories that came out in 2007.357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
953953diurnal(Of animals) active in the daytimeadj. Latin dies=day + -urnus, an adjectival suffix denoting time (compare hibernus "wintery", nocturnal=active at night. </br>Syn: daily, everydayOur body clock follows a <b><u>diurnal</b> rhythm</u>.Most DifficultFT
954954dross something regarded as worthlessnounOld English dros="the scum thrown off metals in smelting" similar to German Drusen="dregs, husks" </br>Syn: rubbish, junk, debrisSome of the best properties could be sold quickly, but the <b>dross</b> might take more time to get rid of.Most DifficultFT
955955dyspepticOf or having indigestion or consequent irritability or depressionadj. Greek dyspeptos "hard to digest" dys- "bad, difficult" (see dys-) + peptos "digested"ic=nature of, like</br> Syn: bad-tempered, short-tempered, irritable, depressed, pessimistic, misanthropic)As <b>dyspeptic</b> and irritable as she was, the woman was in a happy mood when she went to the beachMost DifficultFT
956956ebullientjoyously unrestrained, Cheerful and full of energyadj.Latin: "to boil over", lit./fig., ex "out, out of" + bullire "to bubble"</br> origin similar to boil, bubble </br>Syn: exuberant, buoyant, joyfulCharlies <u><b>ebullient </b>upbeat character</u> made him a favorite in the office357 prevalent GRE wordsPrepscholar
957957edifyInstruct or improve (someone) morally or intellectuallyverbModern French édifier: "build; install; teach, instruct (morally), Same root as the English word: edifice=building </br>Syn: educate, instruct, enlightenThe Church school aims to <b>edify</b> its pupils mind and spiritsMost DifficultFT
958958egress the action of going out of or leaving a placenoun Latin egressus="a going out"(ex=out+ PP of gredi= to step) </br>Deutsch: Austritt</br>Syn: departure, exit, withdrawalThe data is stored in the <u>router <b>egress</b> queue</u> until it is serialised onto the physical wireMost DifficultFT
959959ersatz(Of a product) used as a substitute, typically an inferior one, for something elseadj.Deutsch : ersatz</br>Syn: artificial, substitute, imitationDuring the 2nd world war, many had to make do with <b>ersatz</b> coffeeMost DifficultFT
960960erstwhileformeradj. mid English, erst ="first, at first; once, long ago; till now" itself Old English ærest soonest, earliest, "</br>Syn: old, past, one-timeThe <b>erstwhile</b> owner and company founder kept a close eye on how the new shareholders grew his babyMost DifficultFT
961961euphony the quality of being pleasing to the earnoun Greek eu- "good" (see eu-) + phone "sound, voice" = well sounding </br>Syn: melodiousness, musicalityI was moved by the melodious <b>euphony</b> of the spoken poemMost DifficultFT
962962expiateAtone for (guilt or sin)verbLatin : ex- "completely" + piare "propitiate, appease" =>act of making satisfaction or reparation for an offense, atonement, reparation</br>Syn: make amends for, make up forTo <b>expiate</b> for breaking his neighbors window, John shovelled snow for three monthsMost DifficultFT
963963condolegrieve; express sympathy; speak sympathetically to one in pain, grief, or misfortune verbLatin :com "with, together" + dolere "to grieve"</br>Deutsch: kondolierenI <b>condoled</b> my classmate on the death of his mother1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
964964fracas a noisy disturbance or quarrelnoun French fracas="crash, sudden noise; tumult, bustle, fuss" </br>Deutsch: Aufruhr </br>Syn: scuffle, brawl, affrayA diplomatic <b>fracas</b> between the quarrelsome nationsMost DifficultFT
965965frieze a broad horizontal band of sculpted or painted decoration, especially on a wall near the ceilingnounA <b>frieze</b> on the wall of America's Supreme Court shows some of the great law-givers of history, including the Roman emperor Justinian, Moses and Muhammad.Most DifficultFT
966966fusillade a series of shots fired or missiles thrown all at the same time or in quick successionnoun French fusillade, fusiller "to shoot" </br>Syn: salvo, volley, bombardmentBut thanks to poor communication, many saw it as Chinas first <b>fusillade</b> in a global currency warMost DifficultFT
967967gaffe an unintentional act or remark causing embarrassment to its originatornoun French gaffe "clumsy remark" </br>Syn: blunder, mistake, errorGoofy makes <u>non-stop <b>gaffes</b></u>Most DifficultFT
968968congruent1. Geom: superposable (triangles) or Maths 2 numbers with same remainder when divided by same modulo. </br>2. suitable; agreeing; corresponding adj.Latin: come together1a. 38 and 14 are <b>congruent</b> modulo 12</br> Two SAS triangles are always <b>congruent</b></br>Daddy's approach of eating chocolate bars is not <b>congruent</b> with his weight loss plan.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
969969gerontocracy a state, society, or group governed by old peoplenounGreek : geron "old man" + -cracy "rule" =>ruled by old menBut Muhammad bin Salman is not merely a young face in a <b>gerontocracy</b> he is a dynamic and apparently purposeful one.Most DifficultFT
970970halcyonDenoting a period of time in the past that was idyllically happy and peacefuladj. from Greek mythology, 14 days of calm weather at the winter solstice, when a mythical Kingfisher bird bred on a nest floating on calm seas=>"calm, quiet, peaceful"</br> Syn: happy, golden, idyllic, also spelt "alcyon"In their <b>halcyon</b> days the mainstream parties used to share most of the vote between them.Most DifficultFT
971971hegemony Leadership or dominance, especially by one group over othersnounGreek hegemon "leader" or dominance of one city state over the other</br>Syn: leadership, dominance, dominionYet if the <b>hegemony</b> of the dollar is unstable, its would-be successors are unsuitable.</br>Feminists complain about the <u>male <b>hegemony</b></u> of our systemMost DifficultFT
972972hermeticInsulated or protected from outside influencesadj.Hermes, a Greek god, invented a process of making glass airtight, thus the word hermetic</br>Syn: airtight, sealedNorth Korea is often called the <u><b>"hermetic</b> kingdom"</u>Most DifficultFT
973973heterodoxnot conforming with accepted or orthodox standards or beliefs, often in a religious context.adj.Greek : heteros, "the other" + doxa, "opinion."=>non conforming opinion</br>Syn: unorthodox, heretical, dissentingAmong those discriminated against for holding <b>heterodox</b> religious views, the Bahai community continues particularly to suffer.Most DifficultFT
974974congruityrelation or agreement between things; fitness; harmony; correspondence; consistency. noun1: the quality or state of being congruent or congruous</br> 2: a point of agreement2. On closer observation, <u>one found little <b>congruity</b> between<u> her professed religious beliefs and her actual behavior</br>Syn: common denominator, commonality, correspondence, parallel, resemblance, similarity, similitude1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
975975coniferA tree or shrub bearing cones, normally with needles instead of leaves nounLatin: conus=cone+ fer=make/bear=> "cone-bearing, bearing conical fruit"Our paved front yard is adorned with a <b><u>conifer tree</u></b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
976976idyll an extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque episode or scenenounSyn: perfect time, ideal time, honeymoonThat might just persuade them to forgive the scriptwriters for the unwelcome disruption to their <u>rural <b>idyll</u>.</b>Most DifficultFT
977977ignoblenot honorable in character or purposeadj.ignoble meant not noble in old days, which was not a good thing. </br>Syn: dishonorable, unworthy, baseMoreover, by controlling the body he controlled the equally unruly mind, keeping it pure from <u><b>'ignoble</b> strife'</u>.Most DifficultFT
978978impugnDispute the truth, validity, or honesty of (a statement or motive)verbLatin: in- "into, in, on, upon" + pugnare "to fight"=>attack by argument</br>Syn: call into question, challengeThe media vilified the protesters and their cause by<u> <b>impugning</b> their character</u>.Most DifficultFT
979979inciseMark or decorate (an object or surface) with a cut or a series of cutverbLatin: in=in + cis=cut</br>Syn: engrave, etch, carveThis 12th-century incense burner is <b>incised</b> with calligraphy that identifies its maker and first owner.Most DifficultFT
980980incubus<u>a cause of distress or anxiety</u>. originally, incubus = mythological character that visits people in their sleep, a kind of nightmare demon. nounLatin incubo, "nightmare, one who lies down on the sleeper"</br> incubate is linked to this word. </br> Syn: a) demon, devil, fiend b) nightmare c) a complex situation d) disagreeable person, unpleasant personAn idea shot through her mind that <u>she might call a policeman to rid her of this <b>incubus</b></u>Most DifficultFT
981981knell the sound of a bell, especially when rung solemnly for a death or funeralnounSyn: toll, ringing, chimeThe change in policy is a blow to the prison industry, but it hardly sounds a <u>death <b>knell</b></u> for its business model.Most DifficultFT
982982lachrymoseInducing tears; sadadj.Latin: lacryma "a tear"=> tearful</br>was in Stephan's GMAT !</br>Syn: sad, tearful, weepyThis morning the world is not talking about a dubious song by the host, a <b>lachrymose</b> speech or even an appalling outfit.Most DifficultFT
983983lacuna an unfilled space or interval; a gapnounLatin lacuna "hole, pit" figuratively "a gap, void, want" </br>Syn: interval, gap</br> same root as word "Lake", "lagoon"Discovering the ancient text, historians were sad to discover there was a <b>lacuna</b> in the middle with several missing pages.Most DifficultFT
984984lambasteCriticize (someone or something) harshlyverbSyn: castigate, chastise, condemn, correct, objurgate, bawl out, berate, call down, chew up, chide, dress down, jaw, lecture, rag, rebuke, remonstrate, reprimand, reproof, scold, take to task, trounce, vituperateYet the president was <b>lambasted</b> for his otherworldly complacency.Most DifficultFT
985985larcenylegal term for theft of personal property, involving taking away something awaynounSyn: stealing, robbery, pilfering</br>grand larceny = big theft, petty larceny=small theftThe <b>larceny</b> charges were dropped when it was discovered he received verbal permission to use the car.Most DifficultFT
986986libertine1. a person who rejects accepted opinions in matters of religion, someone who lives life unencumbered by morals</br>2. a dissolute person; usually a man who is morally unrestrainedadj., nounSyn1: freethinker, hedonist, profligate</br>Syn2 : debauchee, profligate1. There are aunts for every worldview, from <b>libertine</b> to puritan and from reactionary to radical.</br>2. A new pop archetype has emerged: the female <b>libertine</b> who brushed her teeth “with a bottle of Jack Daniels” before an all-nighter.Most DifficultFT
987987consign1. give over to another for care or safekeeping</br> 2. to give, transfer, or deliver into the hands or control of another also: to commit especially to a final destination or fate </br> 3. to send or address to an agent to be cared for or sold verbcon = "with, together" + signare "to sign, mark"=>formally hand over by signing1. She <b>consigned</b> her baggage to the service provider at the station.</br>2. After publishing a piece of politically incorrect writing, the author was <u><b>consigned</b> to oblivion</u></br>3. Since I <b>consign</b> my blankets to ebay agent stores, I dont get paid until a sale is made1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
988988maelstrom1. a powerful circular current of water</br>2. fig. a situation or state of confused movement or violent turmoilnounold Dutch Maelstrom (modern maalstroom), literally "grinding-stream - zu Deutsch: Mahlstrom</br> Syn: turbulence, tumult, turmoil</br>Syn:vortex, whirlpoolThe military is very concerned about getting pulled into the <b><u>maelstrom</b> of politics</u> in an election year in order to push protesters.Most DifficultFT
989989magnate a wealthy and influential businessman or businesswomannounSyn: industrialist, tycoon, mogulSeveral of Americas great industrialists built empires in Pittsburgh, including Andrew Carnegie, a steel <b>magnate</b>Most DifficultFT
990990malaproprism the mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with unintentionally amusing effectnounFrench : Mal "wrong/false" + à propos"concerning" = false with respect to</br> "Syn: misuse, solecism, blunderA <b>malapropism</b> : "Mrs Malaprop was concerned that she was getting <u><b>various</b> veins</u>" - where <u>various</u> and <u>varicose</u> are mixed up. Most DifficultFT
991991misanthropy a dislike of humankindnounGreek: misein "to hate" + anthrōpos "man"=>hating mankind</br>Syn: cynicism, hatred of mankindLabour did not fall into the traps of the old left: <u>confusing individualism for <b>misanthropy.</b></u>Most DifficultFT
992992monolithic1. large, powerful, imposing in size or bulk or solidity </br>2. characterized by massiveness and rigidity and total uniformityadj.mono:one + lith: "stone"+ ic:"nature of, like"=> being like a massive stone </br>Syn: inflexible, rigid, unbending1. The <b>monolithic</b> proportions of Stalinist architecture”</br>2. But evangelicals are not a <b>monolithic</b> worldwide movementMost DifficultFT
993993consternationintense state of fear or dismay; astonishment combined with terror nounAhnlich zu Deutsch: konstaniert, aber stärkerWitnessing a gruesome car accident paralyzed the woman with <b>consternation</b>. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
994994myopicnearsightedadj.Greek: myein "to shut" + ōps "eye" ic=nature of, like=>short-sightedness</br>Syn: short-sighted, insular, small-mindedThey are also <b>myopic</b>, judging politicians economic management on the basis of only the very recent pastMost DifficultFT
995995nadir the lowest point in the fortunes of a person or organizationnounArabic in astronomy, opposite of zenith</br>Syn: perigee, the all-time low, zero</br>Antonym: zenith, apogeeBetween its pre-crisis peak in late 2007 and its <b>nadir</b> at the end of 2009, the economy contracted by 11. 2%Most DifficultFT
996996neophyte a person who is new to a subject, skill, or beliefnounGreek: neo=new, phyte=grown=>newly grown</br>Syn: beginner, learner, novice, entrant, fledgeling, fledgling, freshman, newbie, newcomer, starterEven <u>the best golfer in the world was once a <b>neophyte</u></b> at the sport of golfMost DifficultFT
997997noisomehaving an extremely offensive smell; harmful, offensive, destructive adj.Same word root as "annoy" + some=> bad smelling</br>Syn: irritating, disagreeable, unpleasantThe <u><b>noisome</b> odor</u> of the dump carried for miles.Most DifficultFT
998998nostrum a pet scheme or favorite remedy, especially one for bringing about some social or political reform or improvementnounLatin : nostrum remedium "our remedy"</br>Syn: cure-all, snake-oil, prescription, answer to everything, panaceaIt became a <b>nostrum</b> among rank-and-file Republicans that mainstream opinion polls are biased and should be ignored...Most DifficultFT
999999occludeblock passage throughverbLatin : ob "in front of, against" + claudere "to shut, close"=>to shut up or stop up so as to prevent anything from passing through</br>Syn: block, cover, shut inMars will be as far away as 370m kilometres in 2013, and <b>occluded</b> for two weeks by the sun to boot...Most DifficultFT
10001000paean a song of praise or triumphnounPaean was originally a song of praise for Apollo, or Paian as he was sometimes called</br>Syn: song of praise, hymn, alleluia, encomium, eulogy, panegyric, The boy wrote a <b>paean</b> for his dad, praising his many accomplishments.Most DifficultFT
10011001panoply a complete or impressive collection of thingsnounGreek : pan- "all" + hopla , "arms"=>complete suit of armour</br> Syn: array, range, collectionBecause the Orient is a luxury hotel, its <u><b>panoply</b> of premium services</u> and amenities is unrivalled in the hotel industryMost DifficultFT
10021002pastiche an artistic work consisting of a medley of pieces taken from various sourcesnounItalian pasticcio "medley, pastry cake,</br>Syn: mixture, blend, medleyThe mix of country, pop, and soul music made the album a fascinating <u><b>pastiche</b> of sounds</u>.Most DifficultFT
10031003paucityan <u>insufficient</u> quantity or numbernounSame root as 'Poor, poverty, "</br>Syn: scarcity, sparseness, dearthThe <u><b>paucity</b> of talent</u> at our school is going to prevent us from having a top-notch concert. Most DifficultFT
10041004pellucid1. clear</br>2. Lucid in style or meaning; easily understoodadj.Latin; per- "through" + lucere "to shine"=>shine through </br>Syn: comprehensible, understandableA sentence that teaches a new vocabulary word should always be <b>pellucid</b>, that is, its style and meaning should be easily understandable so that you can derive the definition from the sentenceMost DifficultFT
10051005phalanx1. a body of troops or police officers standing or moving in close formation, any closely ranked crowd of people</br> 2. any of the bones of the fingers or toesnounGreek phalanx : "line of battle, battle array" 1. They didnt get far: On March 7, 1965, <u>a phalanx of <b>police</u></b> blocked their exit from the Selma bridge.</br>2. Most DifficultFT
10061006philistine A person who is hostile or indifferent to culture and the artsnounDuring the funeral service of a student killed in a 1693 town and gown dispute in Jena, Germany, Judges 16:20 "the Philistines are upon you, Samson" was read, whereupon from then on all understand backward, anti-learning and anti-arts (townspeople) to be “Philistines."Jack is a <b>philistine</b> who unknowingly sold a vase valued at over a hundred thousand dollars for twenty bucks.Most DifficultFT
10071007pique1. a feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight </br>2. to arouse/provoke interestnoun Deutsch: Pieksen</br> French piquer, "to prick." Thus something that piques you could make you either excited OR angry</br>Syn1: annoyance, displeasure, indignation</br>Syn2:rouse, trigger (interest/curiosity/attention)1. The criticism <b>piqued</b> him and he kept quiet the whole evening</br>2. Hopefully the movie trailer will <u><b>pique</b> the interest</u> of moviegoers and motivate them to buy tickets to see the film.Most DifficultFT
10081008polemic a strong verbal or written attack on someone or somethingnounGreek polemikos : "warlike, belligerent+ ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: diatribe, invectiveWhen the principal received an anonymous <b>polemic</b> about her leadership skills, she urged the writer to meet her face-to-face.Most DifficultFT
10091009précis a summary or abstract of a text or speechnounSyn: synopsis, summationHis latest book, 'Intuition Pumps and Other Tools for Thinking', is a précis of those 50 years, distilled into 77 readable and mostly bite-sized chaptersMost DifficultFT
10101010prosaicCommonplace; unromanticadj. Latin prosa "prose," ordinary writing intended to communicate ideas and information+ ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: ordinary, everydayBecause the biggest thing in my hometown is the grocery store, the city really is a <b>prosaic</b> little place.Most DifficultFT
10111011pundit an expert in a particular subject or field who is frequently called on to give opinions about it to the publicnounFrom Sanskrit : a pundit was a "learned Hindu" or Sanskrit expert</br>Syn: authority, adviserAnd yet the prevailing view among pundits is that Russia is indeed back in Asia.Most DifficultFT
10121012querulousComplaining in a petulant or whining manneradj.Same word root as quarrel</br>Syn: pettish, touchy, testyf there was an award for being querulous, my aunt would win because she is always complaining about something.Most DifficultFT
10131013quiescence a state or period of inactivity or dormancynounsame word root as "quiet"</br>Syn: inactivity, inertia, latencyAny extended period of <b>quiescence</b> was a sure sign that the unusually quiet children were up to no good.Most DifficultFT
10141014quixoticexceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impracticaladj.Spanish novel "Don Quixote," whose title character is given to unrealistic schemes and great chivalry+ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: unrealistic, impractical, romanticThe idea of an obese person participating in a triathlon is a <b>quixotic</b> notion.Most DifficultFT
10151015raconteur a person who tells anecdotes in a skillful and amusing waynounFrench raconter "to tell"</br>Syn: storyteller, spinner of yarnsMy father was a <b>raconteur</b> of stories of a dog with many strengths, named PinklyMost DifficultFT
10161016redress remedy or compensation for a wrong or grievancenounSyn: reparation, restitution, recompenseKate demanded <b>redress</b> from the builder when her deck collapsed.Most DifficultFT
10171017repast a mealnounFrench/Latin : repas "a meal"</br>Syn: feast, banquetHoping to enjoy a romantic repast with her husband, Jill prepared his favorite dishes and lit candles.Most DifficultFT
10181018ribaldReferring to sexual matters in an amusingly rude or irreverent wayadj.Syn: bawdy, indecent, risqueWhen challenged... about human rights in Chechnya, he replied with <u>a <b>ribald</b> offer to arrange for the questioner's Islamic circumcision</u>.Most DifficultFT
10191019rococoCharacterized by an elaborately ornamental late baroque style of decorationadj.Rococo was a highly elaborate style in Europe in the 1700's The building, which once served as the local town hall, boasts <b>rococo</b> wall carvings, a statue of Pallas Athena...Most DifficultFT
10201020sanguineOptimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation. cheerful; confident:adj.Latin sanguis "blood" In medieval medicine, red skin was a sign of an optimistic outlook</br>Syn: hopeful, buoyant, assured Her <b><u>sanguine</b> attitude</u> put everyone at ease.</br>Some fear a future of mass unemployment. Others are <b>sanguine</b> that people will have time to adapt.Most DifficultFT
10211021scintilla a tiny trace or spark of a specified quality or feelingnounSyn: particle, iota, smidgenThe investigator could not find a single <b>scintilla</b> of evidence to the claimMost DifficultFT
10221022semanticRelating to meaning in language or logicadj.ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: lingual, semasiologicalSemantic parsing also ensued over whether the modifier 'meaningful' is significantly (or meaningfully) different from 'significant.'Most DifficultFT
10231023sobriquet a persons nicknamenounSyn: appellation, monikerAlexander and Christina's <b>sobriquets</b> are Alex and ChrissyMost DifficultFT
10241024soporificinducing sleepadj.French/ Latin sopor "deep sleep"+ic=nature of, like</br>Syn: sleep-inducing, somnolent, sedativeWhile <u>alcohol is <b>soporific</b></u> and can help you sleep, it does not take away your problems.Most DifficultFT
10251025supine1. Failing to act as a result of moral weakness or indolence; </br>2. laying back with the face upward (opposite position to prone)adj.Latin: supinus= “thrown backwards” or “inactive.”</br>Syn: weak, spineless1. The by-passers looked on as the crook robbed the old lady but were <u>too <b>supine</b> to want to interfere</u>.</br>2. After being sprayed with the poison, the roach flipped onto its back in a <u><b>supine</b> position</u> and died.Most DifficultFT
10261026synopticTaking or involving a comprehensive mental viewadj.Latin: syn-,: together, + -optic, meaning view or sight. => synoptic =pulls everything together as as to be seen</br>Syn: concise, succinct, compressed cAt the beginning and the end of the course, <b><u>synoptic</b> presentations</u> of the main physical theories were presentedMost DifficultFT
10271027toadyAct in an obsequious wayverbIn old days, traveling medicine men would come to town and their helper would eat an assumed to be poisonous toad which the doctor would then "heal" ? So toad-eater, later toady, was a person who would do anything to please his boss.</br>Syn: be servile towards, grovel toBritains Conservative government is accused of sacrificing the steel industry <u>to <b>toady</b> up to China</u>Most DifficultFT
10281028truculentEager or quick to argue or fightadj.Syn: defiant, aggressive, agonistic, argumentative, bellicose, belligerent, brawly, combative, confrontational, contentious, discordant, disputatious, feisty, militant, pugnacious, quarrelsomeWhen my friend drinks too much, he becomes very<u> <b>truculent </b>and will fight anyone</u>.Most DifficultFT
10291029turgid1. (of language or style) tediously pompous or bombastic</br>2. swollenadj.Latin turgidus: "swollen, inflated."</br> Syn: overblown, inflated, grandiose, bombastic, declamatory, large, orotund, tumidIt promotes a cult of personality around Mr. Baghdadi and churns out <b>turgid</b> propaganda about repaired bridges and newly opened schools.</br>2. He looked at the <b>turgid</b> leeches having had their fill of bloodMost DifficultFT
10301030tyro a beginner or novicenounSyn: learner, neophyte, newcomer He easily took advantage of the <b>tyro's</b><u> inexperience</u> and beat him easilyMost DifficultFT
10311031umbrage Offense or annoyancenoun Old French ombrage "shade, shadow"</br>Syn: insult, affrontPoroshenko, Ukraines president, <u>takes <b>umbrage</b> at charges</u> that reforms are laggingMost DifficultFT
10321032verdant(of countryside) green with grass or other rich vegetationadj.Feom French: Vert-= green<br>Syn: leafy, grassy, lushThe lush, <b><u>verdant</b> hills of Ireland</u> are the theme of the song "the green, green grass of home"Most DifficultFT
10331033virulent1. extremely poisonous or injurious; producing venom </br>2. infectious; having the ability to cause disease or even death</br>3. harsh or corrosive in toneadj.Latin : poison "virus"</br> Syn: toxic, deadly, destructive1. He was struck by a <b>virulent</b> insect bite.</br>2. If you get the <u>most <b>virulent</b> form of cancer</u>, you will probably not live longer than three months.</br>Parkhomeko's remark is another example of the <b><u>virulent</b> response</u> to people who oppose leftist orthodoxy.Most DifficultFT
10341034vitriol Cruel and bitter criticismnounIron Sulphate has a glassy appearance, and was thus called vitriol (vitre=window/glass in French). When Iron Sulphate is heated, it creates sulphuric acid, and thus the link between biting, cruel and glass!</br>Syn: venom, nastinessGiven the <b>vitriol</b> that has followed the film since its inception, it does well simply not to be a colossal misstep. Most DifficultFT
10351035vociferous(Especially of a person or speech) vehement or clamorous. Vociferous isn't just loud, but annoying, tooadj.Latin : vox "voice" + stem of ferre "to carry,"Syn: blatant, clamorous, noisyTen weeks of ever-more <b>vociferous</b> argument, claims and counterclaims stretch between now the election date.Most DifficultFT
10361036xenophobia Intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countriesnounGreek : xeno- "foreign, strange" + -phobia "fear=> fear of strangers. </br>Syn : Africans in South Africa have repeatedly been victim of <b>xenophobia</b>, which has stunned and hurt them, as they thought the victims of Apartheid would be more tolerantMost DifficultFT
10371037yoke a wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to the plow or cart that they are to pullnounGleicher Wortstamm als Deutsch : Joch</br>Syn: bond, tie, subjectionThe existential consequences of throwing off the <u><b>yoke</b> of religion</u> is debated in many countries.Most DifficultFT
10381038ambiboth sides Greek/Latin rootambidextrous (both-handed)</br>ambivalent (be in 2 minds)Root wordsAristotle
10391039consummatecomplete or perfect in every respect; supremely accomplished or skilled adj.Latin :com "together, with" + summus "highest"=highest, most perfect</br>similar to "summa com (lauda)"Even at a young age he was a <b>consummate</b> liar, lying to his grandmother that he was attending school every day while playing truant.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10401040am</br>amiloveGreek/Latin rootamiable -friendly</br> pleasant</br> lovable</br>amicable=characterized by friendliness</br>amity -friendly and peaceful relations</br> amorous -showing romantic love </br>enamored=inflamed with love</br>captivatedRoot wordsAristotle
10411041avibirdGreek/Latin rootAviary=a large enclosure for birds</br> Aviatrix=a female airplane pilot</br>Aviation=the art of designing or operating aircraftRoot wordsAristotle
10421042continenceself control; self restraint; partial or complete abstention from sexual activity nounLatin: com "with, together" + tenere "to hold"=>can hold back. </br> Ant: incontinence1a. He expressed doubt at a pregnancy-prevention program that put so much faith in the <b>continence</b> of teenagers</br>1b.During a rare moment of <b>continence</b>, Tom kept his smart comment to himself. 1c. The closure of public toilets during the Corona crisis has become a large problem for persons with <u><b>continence</b> issues</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10431043cogto knowGreek/Latin rootCognizant=fully informed</br> conscious</br>cognition=process of acquiring knowledge</br> incognito=disguised so no one knows you</br>recognize=to discover that one knows</br> cogitate=to think carefully aboutRoot wordsAristotle
10441044col</br> con</br> comwith Greek/Latin rootcollaborate=to work together collision=smashingtogether colloquial -words formed by everyday interaction commemorate=to memorize together commune=living together while owning things in common concomitant=accompanying concur=to agree with someoneRoot wordsAristotle
10451045dolpain</br> sufferingGreek/Latin rootCondolence=expression of sympathy</br> Indolence=a state of being lazy or slothful</br> Doleful=sorrowful</br> mournful</br>Dolorous=full of pain or sorrowRoot wordsAristotle
10461046dysabnormal</br> badGreek/Latin rootdyspepsia=abnormal indigestion</br>dystopia=an imaginary place of total misery</br>dyslexia=impairmentof the ability to handle word</br>dysfunctional=poorly functionalRoot wordsAristotle
10471047eugood</br> wellGreek/Latin rooteuphemism=replacing an offensive word with an inoffensive one</br>euphony=having a pleasant sound</br>euphoria=feeling of well=being</br>eulogy=speech in praise of someone</br>eugenics=the study of hereditary improvement of a raceRoot wordsAristotle
10481048extra (part 1 of</br>2. outside</br> beyondGreek/Latin rootextraordinary=beyond ordinary</br>extraterrestrial=outside the Earth</br>extrovert=an outgoing person</br>extradite=to hand over an accused to the state where crime was committedRoot wordsAristotle
10491049geno </br>gene</br>genesisbirth</br> gender</br> family</br> kind</br> race (genre)Greek/Latin rootgenealogy=the study of the history of a family</br>generation=all the people born at approx the same</br>genetic=relating to heredity encoded in the genes</br> Congenital=existing from birthRoot wordsAristotle
10501050gratpleasingGreek/Latin rootgratify=to pleasesomeone</br>grateful=feeling thankful </br>gratuity=a tip</br> token of appreciationin</br>gratiate=to bring oneself into the favor ofanother by deliberate effortsRoot wordsAristotle
10511051loc</br> loqspeakGreek/Latin rootGrandiloquent=pompous or inflated in language</br>eloquent=speaking beautifully and forcefully</br>loquacious=very talkative</br>circumlocution=roundabout talk</br>elocution=art of clear & expressive speaking</br>locution=talking</br> soliloquy=long solo talkRoot wordsAristotle
10521052mal</br> malebad</br> evil</br> ill Greek/Latin rootmalfunction=not functioning properly</br>malevolence=ill will</br>malicious=showing strong ill will</br>malediction=a curse</br>malign=to speak ill about someone</br>maladroit=clumsy</br> tactlessRoot wordsAristotle
10531053metabeyond</br> change</br> betweenGreek/Latin rootmetaphysics=study of nature and reality</br>metamorphosis=a complete change of form</br>metastasis=the transmission of disease to other parts of the body.Root wordsAristotle
10541054morphshape</br> formGreek/Latin rootmetamorphosis=complete change of form</br>morphology=the branch of biology that deals with the structure & form of organisms</br>amorphous=without distinct shape or formRoot wordsAristotle
10551055natbornGreek/Latin rootinnate=included since birth</br>nascent=starting to develop </br>natal=relating to birth</br>natural=gotten at birth</br> not afterwardRoot wordsAristotle
10561056ob</br> opagainst</br> opposition</br> Greek/Latin rootobject=to be against something</br>obscure=hard to understand</br>obstruct=hinder</br>obfuscate=confuse</br> darken</br>obtuse not sharp</br> dull</br>obstreperous noisly defiant.UnRoot wordsAristotle
10571057omniallGreek/Latin rootomnipotent=with all the power</br>omniscient=knowing all things</br>omnipresent=present everywhere</br>omnivorous=eating all foodsRoot wordsAristotle
10581058panall</br> any</br> everyoneGreek/Latin rootpanacea=a cure for all diseases or problems</br>panorama=an allaround view</br>pantheism=the worship of all gods</br>pandemic=affecting allRoot wordsAristotle
10591059pathfeeling</br> emoitionGreek/Latin rootempathy=identification with & understanding of anothers feeling</br>sapathy=a lack of feeling or interest</br>sympathy=harmony or agreement</br> sharing someones feelings</br>antipathy=a feeling of great disRoot wordsAristotle
10601060purgecleanGreek/Latin rootPurge=remove anything undesirable</br>purgatory=according to Roman Catholics a placewhere souls must clean themselves of sin</br>expurgate=remove objectionable passages from a publicationRoot wordsAristotle
10611061scito knowGreek/Latin rootconscience=sense of knowing right from wrong</br>conscious=knowing what is happening</br>omniscient=knowing everything</br>prescient=ability to perceive events before they occurRoot wordsAristotle
10621062somnsleepGreek/Latin rootinsomnia=inability to fall asleep</br>somniloquy=talking in ones sleep</br>somnolent=feeling sleepy</br>Somnambulist=sleep walkRoot wordsAristotle
10631063theogodGreek/Latin rootmonotheism=belief in one god</br>polytheism=worshiping more than one God</br>theology=the study of religion, god, etc</br>theocracy=Form of govt where religion is the guiding principleRoot wordsAristotle
10641064tractable can be easily influenced or managed. ability to be easily managed or controlled Greek/Latin rootattract =to pull nearer</br>distract =to drag attention away fromsomething</br>Intractable=stubbornHer mother wished she were more tractable. (n: tractibility)Root wordsAristotle
10651065vertruthGreek/Latin rootveracious=truthful</br> honest </br>veracity=the truth </br>verify=to make sure that something is true </br>veritable </br>averasseverateRoot wordsAristotle
10661066vivlifeGreek/Latin rootVivid=livelyrevival=the act of bringing back to life</br>vital=pertaining to live</br>vivacious=high-spirited and full of life</br>convivial=sociableRoot wordsAristotle
10671067gerold ageadj.geriatrics=medicine pertaining to the elderly</br>gerontocracy=the rule of the elders</br>gerontology=the science of aging.SMB
10681068grandlarge, imposing, principal, chief, most importantadj. Latin grandis "big, great; full, abundant"grandeur=the quality of being grand/magnificient </br>grandiose=pretentiously grand </br>aggrandize=to make something appear bigger or greater </br>grandiloquent=pompous or bombastic SMB
10691069vacemptyGreek/Latin rootevacuate=to empty a dangerous place</br>vacant=empty</br> not occupied</br>acation=a time without work</br>vacuous=lacking intelligenceGreek/Latin MSU
10701070belliwarGreek/Latin rootbellicose=warlike in manner or temperament</br> belligerent=hostile</br> ready to fight</br>rebel=person who opposes and fightsGreek/Latin Manhattan
10711071controvertoppose with arguments; attempt to prove to be false or incorrect; contradict verba back-formation from controversy</br>Syn: rebut, refute, altercate, argue, argufy, bicker, brabble, brawl, dispute, fall out, fight, hassle, jar, quarrel, quibble, row, scrap, spat, squabble, tiff, wrangleMany grew up learning that Columbus was the first European to land in America, but now we have evidence <u>to <b>controvert</b> that idea</u> and other explorers such as Leif Eriksson beat Columbus to America.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10721072convalescerecover gradually from an illness verbLatin: com=with + valere =strong (same root at valour)=>gain strength</br>Syn :recover, recuperate, recuperateIn order to help patients <b>convalesce</b> faster from COVID, doctors now administer a cheap anti-biotic steroid compound.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10731073cis (sometimes scis)cutGreek/Latin rootincision</br> precisionGreek/Latin Manhattan
10741074cosmorder</br> worldGreek/Latin rootcosmos</br> microcosmGreek/Latin Manhattan
10751075cyclcircleGreek/Latin rootcycle</br> cycloneGreek/Latin Manhattan
10761076crabbedcharacterized by or manifesting, sourness, peevishness, or moroseness; harsh; cross; cynical adj.from the crab's combative disposition</br>Syn: bad-tempered, crabby, cross, fussy, grouchy, grumpy, ill-temperedHe seems to have been constantly <b>crabbed</b>, forbiddingly morose and harsh of manner. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10771077dictword</br> speak</br> sayGreek/Latin rootdictate</br> dictation</br> dictatorGreek/Latin Manhattan
10781078duc</br> ductcarry</br> leadGreek/Latin rootconduct</br> conduciveGreek/Latin Manhattan
10791079fac</br> factdo</br> makeGreek/Latin rootfacsimile</br> manufactureGreek/Latin Manhattan
10801080fectdo</br> makeGreek/Latin rootperfectGreek/Latin Manhattan
10811081formshapeGreek/Latin rootuniform</br> reformGreek/Latin Manhattan
10821082fortstrongGreek/Latin rootfortify</br> fort</br> fortifications</br> Greek/Latin Manhattan
10831083conversantfamiliar, as by study or experience; able to converse knowledgeably adj.same root as conservationThe intelligent and widely read young man was <u><b>conversant</b> on many topics</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10841084convivialfriendly and making you feel welcome, festive; occupied with or fond of the pleasures of good company adj.Latin: com "with, together" + vivere "to live"=>to (enjoy) life together, to feastCarl was <u>a <b>convivial</b> party host</u> who made everyone feel at home.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10851085convokecall together; cause to assemble in meeting; convene verbLatin: con=with, together" + vocare "to call" from vox "voice"=>to call together, to meetThe chairman decided <u>to <b>convoke</b> a meeting</u> to discuss the companys budget issue.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10861086log</br> logyspeech</br> study of dialogueGreek/Latin rootanalogyGreek/Latin Manhattan
10871087man</br> manuhandGreek/Latin rootmanage</br> manualGreek/Latin Manhattan
10881088mater</br> matrimother</br> homeGreek/Latin rootmatriarch</br> maternityGreek/Latin Manhattan
10891089medimiddleGreek/Latin rootmedian</br> mediocreGreek/Latin Manhattan
10901090corneta brass musical instrument with a brilliant tone nounThe musician said that that the <b>cornet</b> sounds similar to a trumpet, but softer and mellower.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10911091multimanyGreek/Latin rootmultiplyGreek/Latin Manhattan
10921092nom</br> nymnameGreek/Latin rootnominate</br> synonym :Greek/Latin Manhattan
10931093pater</br> patrifatherGreek/Latin rootpaternal</br> patriarchGreek/Latin Manhattan
10941094pathyfeeling</br> sufferingGreek/Latin rootsympathyGreek/Latin Manhattan
10951095coronaryThe protective ring of blood vessels surrounding the heart and supplying it with oxygen and other nutrients. adj.The blood vessels surround the heart like a crone, therefore: coronary<u>A coronary <b>thrombosis</b></u> is when the veins around the heart clog up and starve the heart of oxygen and nutrients and is commonly called a heart attack.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10961096countermandcancel; revoke command or order; order or direct in opposition to; prohibit; forbid verbFrench: contre- "against" + mander- "to order"=> to change or retract a command</br>Syn: annul, lift, overturn, repeal, rescind, reverse, revoke, vacateAfter learning his troops would be outnumbered in battle, the colonel elected to <u><b>countermand</b> the order</u> and return to camp1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
10971097scendclimbGreek/Latin rootascend</br> descendGreek/Latin Manhattan
10981098scriptwritten languageGreek/Latin rootpostscriptGreek/Latin Manhattan
10991099secutfollowGreek/Latin rootconsecutive</br> non sequiturGreek/Latin Manhattan
11001100sentfeel</br> thinkGreek/Latin rootsentient</br> consent</br> sentimentGreek/Latin Manhattan
11011101sequfollowGreek/Latin rootsequence</br> subsequentlyGreek/Latin Manhattan
11021102tacttouchGreek/Latin rootcontact</br> tactless (without feeling), tactful (with feeling), Greek/Latin Manhattan
11031103temportimeGreek/Latin rootcontemporary, temporary, Greek/Latin Manhattan
11041104tractpull</br> draw outGreek/Latin roottractor</br> attractiveGreek/Latin Manhattan
11051105cragsteep, rugged rock; rough, broken cliff, or point of a rock, on a ledge nounAs the cliff climbers made their way up <u>the mountain <b>crag</b></u>, the made sure to reach for the most sturdy pieces to hold on to.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11061106veneassemble</br> meetGreek/Latin rootconveneGreek/Latin Manhattan
11071107ventcome</br> goGreek/Latin rootadvent=coming to christmasGreek/Latin Manhattan
11081108versturnGreek/Latin rootreverse</br> versatileGreek/Latin Manhattan
11091109vertturnGreek/Latin rootDo NOT confuse with French "vert"</br> which means greenconvertGreek/Latin Manhattan
11101110voc</br>vokvoice</br> callGreek/Latin rootvocal</br> revokeGreek/Latin Manhattan
11111111voxvoiceGreek/Latin rootvox populi=voice of the peopleWHO is morphing from <u><b>vox</b> populi</u> neutrality to a more combative defense of its policies, decisions and players.Greek/Latin Manhattan
11121112gullibleeasily persuaded to believe somethingadj.of uncertain originThe gullible little boy gave his older sister all of his allowance because she told him she would buy a pony for him.Common GREKaplan
11131113volu</br>volveturn</br> rollGreek/Latin rootrevolutionGreek/Latin Manhattan
11141114cravata piece of silk, fine muslin, or other cloth, worn by men about the neck (not a tie) nounDeutsch wortstamm: Kravatte, aber nicht das GleicheThe dandy folded a silken handkerchief into a <b>cravat</b> before wrapping it around his neck1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11151115lethargiclacking energyadj.From same Greek word. ic=nature of, like</br>Its not uncommon to feel lethargic for weeks or even months after major surgerCommon GREKaplan
11161116paradoxa statement that contradicts itself but might be truenounGreek: para- "contrary to" + doxa "opinion=>a statement contrary to common belief or expectationThe fact that the retired teacher claimed to hate all pets but adopted seven cats is an intriguing <b>paradox.</b>Common GREKaplan
11171117pedanta person who makes an excessive display of learningnounGleicher Wortstamm als "Pedagogue"= "person who trumpets minor points of learning, one who overrates learning or lays undue stress on exact knowledge of details or trifles as compared with large matters or general principles"Professor Blackwell, a well-known pedant, required his pre-med students to speak in Latin throughout the entire semester.Common GREKaplan
11181118acro</br>akroat the top</br>at the end</br> outermost; excellentGreek/Latin roota sub of the Greek</br> PIE root "ac": be sharp</br> rise (out) to a point</br> pierce. acrobat(one that goes high/to the limit)</br> acromegaly=growth disease( highest size (mega))</br> acronym(sharp name=use of first letters)</br> acrophobia(fear of heights)</br> acropolis(city at the top)</br> Root wordsSMB
11191119credulityreadiness of belief; disposition to believe on slight evidence nounLatin: credo=belief</br>Syn:gullabiltToms<u> astounding<b> credulity</b></u> led him to believe that the world really is flat.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11201120crumplefall apart; fold or collapse; crush together or press into wrinkles verbThe writer tore out the piece of paper from his scrapbook, <b>crumpled</b> it up into ball and threw it into the bin. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11211121enervatecause (someone or something) to feel drained of energy; weakenverbEnervate is <u>one of the 5 most common mistakes</u> made in the GRE!The boxer used a swift left uppercut to the jaw to enervate his opponent.Common GREKaplan
11221122cuddlywith a way of nestling together; by hugging,embracing so as to keep warmadj.On the cold winter's day, he and his wife took a cuddly blanket and warmed up in front of the fire1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11231123fervidintensely enthusiastic or passionateadj.The child showed a fervid fascination for superheroes, pouring over comic books for hours.Common GREKaplan
11241124garrulousfull of trivial conversationadj.from Latin garrulus "talkative, chatteringThe garrulous hair stylist talked to each customer for hours at a time.Common GREKaplan
11251125cullselection; organised killing of selected animals; person or thing that is rejected or set aside as inferior in quality nounFrench cuiler "collect, gather, pluck, select". The growing number of elephants in the Kruger park necessitates their <b>culling</b>, either to be shot or for transfer elsewhere.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11261126cumberrest upon as a troublesome or useless weight or load; be burdensome or oppressive to; hinder or embarrass in attaining an object verbOld French encombrer, from combre "obstruction, barrier"</br>Syn:constrain, encumber, restrainThe dead <b>cumbered</b> the living, and the oars were continually dropping from the hands of the slain, crippling and confusing all the movements.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11271127cumbersomeheavy; difficult to handle because of weight or bulk adj.Old French encombrer, from combre "obstruction, barrier"</br>Syn:constrain, encumber, restrainBecause the <b>cumbersome</b> package weighed over three hundred pounds, it took two men to move it1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11281128cupiditygreed; excessive desire, especially for wealth noun</br>Syn:avarice, avariciousness, covetousness. </br>Note: Cupid is a god of desire, affection and erotic love - but not of monetary desire.Johns <u>cupidity</u> led him to try and rob the bank.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11291129para1. Greek origin = alongside, coming from, beyond </br> altered; contrary; irregular, abnormal Greek Greek origin = alongside or altered </br> Latin origin = defense, protection from1. parallel (alongside each other) paramedic (someone alongside a medic)</br>paraphrase (restatement=coming phase) parastatal (organisation that runs alongside state )</br>paresis (altered ie. partial paralysis) paralegal(one trained in subsidiary legal matters "alongside legal")</br> parameter (used alongside to measure system) paraplegic (to be struck on the one side - eg lower side</br> left side) paranormal (beyond normal)</br>parasite (alongside food)Greek/Latin SMB
11301130para 2. Latin origin = defense, protection againstLatinGreek origin = alongside or altered </br> Latin origin = defense, protection from2. parachute (protect from falling)</br> parasol (protect from sun)Greek/Latin SMB
11311131vacillate1. to waver between different opinions or actions, be undecided about something;</br>2. move or sway in a rising and falling or wavelike patternverbLatin vacillatus "sway to and fro; hesitate"</br>Syn : hover, oscillate, vibrate, fluctuate, waver1. Undergraduate students often <b>vacillate</b> among various majors before deciding which degree to pursue.</br>2. the line on the monitor <b>vacillated</b>Common GREKaplan
11321132cussed1. cursed</br>2. stubbornly persistent in wrongdoing adj.A vulgar pronunciation of curse</br>Syn: obdurate, obstinate, unrepentantThat <b>cussed</b> cat once again woke us up last night1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11331133volatilelikely to change rapidly and unpredictablyadj.It is possible for a countrys political climate to remain volatile for decadeCommon GREKaplan
11341134waverto go back and forth between choices or opinionsverbSome citizens vote solely along party lines and <u>never <b>waver</b> in their political decisions</u>.Common GREKaplan
11351135cynosureobject that serves as a focal point of attention and admiration; something that strongly attracts attention; center of attraction nounLatin Cynosura, literally "dog's tail"old name of star constellation containing the North Star, that did not move and thus used to navigate in ancient timesAll eyes were on the figure skater, she was the <b>cynosure</b> of the stadium, as she triple-axed through the air. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11361136contiguoussharing an edge or boundary; touching; neighboring adj.Latin: contiguus= bordering. </br>same root word as "contact"</br> adjacent, conterminous, neighboringGermany and the <b>contiguous</b> countries of Switzerland and Austria have German as a common language1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11371137agrfieldGreek/Latin rootagriculture</br> Latin wordsnko
11381138altHighGreek/Latin rootalto (high pitched singer)</br>Latin wordsnko
11391139alterotherGreek/Latin rootalter-ego</br> alternative</br> alternate</br> Latin wordsnko
11401140daubsmear as with paint; apply with quick or crude strokes to surface; make crude paintings verb1a. He <b>daubed</b> the ceiling with plaster</br>1b. My mom screamed at me when I began to <b>daub</b> my bread with too much cream cheese.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11411141animlife spiritGreek/Latin rootanimationLatin wordsnko
11421142ann</br>annu</br>enniyearGreek/Latin rootannual</br> Latin wordsnko
11431143dauntlessbold; incapable of being discouraged; fearless adj.French: daunter: to be afraid + less=>cannot be made afraid</br>Syn: audacious, brave, fearless, hardy, intrepid, unfearing, bold<u>A <b>dauntless</b> general</u> decided to press the attack even though the odds were not in his favor, and his boldness earned his faction a major victory.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11441144aperopenGreek/Latin rootapertureLatin wordsnko
11451145aptfitGreek/Latin rootaptitude</br> apt</br> Latin wordsnko
11461146deciduousfalling off as of leaves; falling off or shed at specific season or stage of growth adj.Latin:de "down" + cadere "to fall"=> fall down</br>Deutsch ; laubabwerfendDuring the fall, the <b>deciduous</b> shrubs in my yard will release their leaves.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11471147debasereduce in quality or value; lower in esteem; degrade verbLatin: de- "down" + base (adj.) "low"=> to lower in rank, position or quality</br>Syn: adulterate, dilute, load, stretch, corrupt, debauch, demoralize, deprave, misdirect, pervert, profane, subvert, vitiate, extend1a. The mint <b>debased</b> the coins with cheaper nickel metal </br>1b. Many are claiming that Mr. Trump is <b><u>debasing</b> the office</u> of the president. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11481148aster</br>astrstarGreek/Latin rootastral</br> astronomyLatin wordsnko
11491149declaim1. Speak loudly and vehemently in a passionate manner</br>2. Make formal speech</br>3. Recite words aloud for practice. verbOld French: de-,+ clamare "to cry, shout"=>to practice oratory, make a formal speech or oration</br>Syn1: inveigh</br>Syn2: 1. he <b>declaimed</b> against the wasteful ways of modern society</br>2. The defendant <b>declaimed</b> his innocence in a passionate speech in court.</br>3. He <b><u>declaimed</b> his vocab list</u> out loud, practising both the pronounciation and trying to recall the meaning of the words. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11501150debunkexpose as false, exaggerated, worthless; ridicule verbde=reverse + Bunk=nonsense. In 1820 the US congress repr for Buncombe, Carolina, gave a long and rambling speech, which he refused to shorten, claiming that it was important for Buncombe, but his speech was contentless…thus bunk (for Buncombe) came to be known as nonsense.1. The result of biologist's experiments quickly <u><b>debunked</b> the theory</u> that 5G antennas were accelerating the spread of Corona. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11511151declivitydownward slope, as of a hill nounLatin: de "down" + clivus "a slope"=downward slope</br> Syn: declension, declination, decline, descent, downslope, fall</br>Ant: acclivityProminent road signs pre-warn trucks to engage a lower gear so as not to overload their brakes on the forthcoming <b>declivity.</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11521152dappledspotted; having mottled or spotted skin or coat adj.Syn: spotted, mottled, patterned1a. The Disney film poster showed Bambi's <b><u>dappled</b> rear</u> with it looking into the camera gracefully </br>1b. The photography made artistic use of the dappled effect of sunlight filtering through the forest trees.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11531153ambulwalk</br> moveGreek/Latin rootambulanceLatin wordsnko
11541154decrepitudestate of collapse caused by illness , old age or neglect (eg. Buildings) nounde "down" + crepitus, "to crack, break"=>state of being broken down by infirmities</br>Syn: dilapidation, deteriorationIn these modern times, we need to realise that the hollow self-regard of performative life is no preparation for the drama of <u>creeping <b>decrepitude</b></u> when one ages.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11551155arbortreeGreek/Latin rootarboreal(pertaining to trees)</br> arboretum(where trees are culitivated)</br> arborcide(killing of trees)Latin wordsnko
11561156decryexpress strong disapproval of; disparage verbOld French descrier "cry out, announce"</br>Syn: condemn, excoriate, objurgate, reprobateThe liberal news media is constantly trying to <u><b>decry</b> the efforts</u> of the countrys conservative president.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11571157apo</br>aphoaway</br> off</br> separateGreek/Latin rootapogee (furthest away)Latin wordsnko
11581158baslowGreek/Latin rootbass</br> base</br> basement</br> bas-relief</br> Latin wordsnko
11591159defectionwithdrawing support or help; act of abandoning something to which one is bound by allegiance or duty; failure in duty nounDuring the Cold War, it was a regular event for elite athletes of East European countries <u>to <b>defect</b> to the West</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11601160defunctdead; no longer in use or existence adj.Latin: de- "off, completely" + fungi "perform or discharge duty"=>no longer performs dutyThe <u>now <b>defunct</b> Saturn V rocket</u> was suspended from the roof the NASA museum in Cape Caneveral.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11611161dejectedbeing in low spirits; depressed adj.The players were <b>dejected</b> after losing the big game.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11621162deleterioushaving harmful effect; injurious; having quality of destroying life; noxious; poisonous adj.Latin deleterius="noxious, poisonous" </br>Syn: harmful, injuriousBecause I know alcohol is <u><b>deleterious</b> to my health</u>, I rarely drink more than one glass of wine.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11631163brevbrief</br> shortGreek/Latin rootbrevity</br> Latin wordsnko
11641164barpressure</br> weightGreek/Latin rootbarometerLatin wordsnko
11651165burspouch</br> purseGreek/Latin rootbursary(stipend) </br> bursar(treasurer of a college)Latin wordsnko
11661166cad</br> casfallGreek/Latin rootcascade</br> Latin wordsnko
11671167candwhite</br> shiningGreek/Latin rootcandescent(shining)</br> candellaLatin wordsnko
11681168cap</br>capt</br>cepttake</br> holdGreek/Latin rootIn old legal documents determining seizure of assets</br> the header was entitled "document of caption"- which eventually led to the word caption being used to mean as a short summary text captivity</br> captive</br> capture</br> captious(seizes any opportunity to talk a lot about little faults)</br> captivation (taken hold by beauty or excellence)</br> Latin wordsnko
11691169capithead</br> mainGreek/Latin rootcapitulate</br> Latin wordsnko
11701170carnfleshGreek/Latin rootcarnivor</br> Latin wordsnko
11711171denizen1. inhabitant or resident; regular visitor</br>2. a plant or animal naturalized in a region nounLatin: de- "from" + intus "within"=someone from within<br>Same root origin as "citizen" (which applied to city-states), but "from here"</br> dweller, habitant, indweller, inhabitant1. Because Janet visits her local casino every day, she is considered a <b>denizen</b> of the gaming hall </br>2. The <b>denizens</b> of the deep ocean are often strange creatures indeed.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11721172denouementoutcome; final resolution or clarification of dramatic or narrative plot noundes- "un-, out" + nouer/nodus "to tie, knot" =>untieing of knot/plot/storyDad had already fallen asleep in front of the TV by the time the <b>denouement</b> was taking place: the big action scene was over and the characters were tieing up loose ends and explaining why the plot eventually turned out the way it did.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11731173centhundredGreek/Latin rootcentimeter</br> centurion</br> cent</br> Latin wordsnko
11741174chromcolorGreek/Latin rootchromograph</br> Latin wordsnko
11751175chrontimeGreek/Latin rootchronology</br> Latin wordsnko
11761176deportmentmanner of deporting or demeaning one's self; manner of acting; conduct; carriage nounFrench déportement, from déporter "to behave"</br>Syn: behaviour, conduct, demeanourPeople say you shouldn't judge by appearances, but the truth is that your <b>deportment</b> does matter. How you dress, speak, look and carry yourself are all important1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11771177clinlean</br> bendGreek/Latin rootword-forming element meaning "slope</br> slant</br> inclineincline</br> decline</br> recline</br> clinometer</br> Latin wordsnko
11781178derogate1. make othes to seem inferior</br>2. int. verb. To take away a part so as to impair verbLatin: de "away" + rogare "ask, question; propose"=>"to take away, detract from, diminish"</br>Syn1: belittle, denigrate, minimize</br>Syn2: detract1. He tended to <b>derogate</b> everyone around him, so he had no chance of winning the election for class president</br>2. A few instances of inaccuracy or mediocrity can <u>never <b>derogate</b> from the superlative merit</u> of Homer and Vergil1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11791179descant1. a melody or counterpoint sung above the plainsong of the tenor </br>2. discuss fully; talk at great length about something of one's interest verbLatin dis- "asunder, apart" + cantus "song, a singing; bird-song"=>sing/talk things apart (to the greatest detail)1. Many church hymns include a <b>descant</b>, sung at a higher pitch than the melody</b></br>2. A debate almost always requires you to <b>descant</b> with an opponent for a long time, since explaining a point of view can rarely be done quickly.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11801180cardheartGreek/Latin rootcardio</br> cardiac arrest</br>cardiogram</br>Latin wordsnko
11811181despoildeprive of something valuable by force; rob; take as spoils verbDespoil is to spoil, only worse</br>Syn: foray, loot, pillage, plunder, ransack, reave, rifle, strip1a. The landscape has been despoiled by industrial development.</br>1b.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11821182dexterityreadiness and grace in physical activity; skill and ease in using the hands; expertness in manual acts nounFrench: dextirité "manual skill, skill in using the hands; physical adroitness in general".</br>Syn: sleight1. Pruning, thinning, picking and packaging delicate ripe fruit <u>requires manual <b>dexterity</u></b> from the orchard fields to the packing line. </br>2. They responded with remarkable <u>vocal <b>dexterity</u></b> in a raucous rendition of Irreplaceable.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11831183dexterousskillful in the use of the hands; having mental skill adj.adj. of dexterity</br>The new production employee showed to be <b>dexterous of hand</b> and inventive of mind1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11841184curr</br> cursrunGreek/Latin rootcurrent</br> courier</br> Latin wordsnko
11851185catadown</br> against</br> completely</br> intensive</br> according toGreek/Latin rootcatabatic wind(downslope)</br> catapult(throw against intensely)</br> catastrophe(intense against what is expected)</br> catoptric(pertaining to mirrors)</br> cataclysm(flood=intensive washing)</br> cataclasm(great breaking down)</br> cathode(lower negative pole)</br> catheter(lets down liquid out of body)</br> catacomb(underground burial place)</br> Latin wordsnko
11861186caust</br> cautto burnGreek/Latin rootcaustic soda</br> Latin wordsnko
11871187cerebrbrainGreek/Latin rootcerebral</br> Latin wordsnko
11881188certsureGreek/Latin rootcertitude</br> certain</br> Latin wordsnko
11891189chrysgold</br> yellowGreek/Latin rootchrysthaniumLatin wordsnko
11901190cruccrossGreek/Latin rootcrucify</br> Latin wordsnko
11911191dieteticsstudy of nutrition as it relates to health nounProf. Sanders, emeritus professor of <u>nutrition and <b>dietetics</u></b> at King's College London, said: " I'm concerned many people think B12 deficiency is a myth."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11921192uranianhomosexualadj.from the reference to Aphrodite in Plato's "Symposium;" Urania "Heavenly""One may recognize the pure <b>uranian</b> enthusiasts in the very character of their attachments" PlatoAMBRATMW
11931193dectenGreek/Latin rootdecade</br> decennial</br> Latin wordsnko
11941194direfuldire; dreadful; terrible; calamitous; woeful adj.</br>Syn: awful, dire, dread, dreaded, dreadful, fearful, fearsome, frightening, horrendous, horrific, terribleThe 1929 stock market crash was the<u> first <b>direful</b> indication</u> of the dark days to come 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11951195dermskinGreek/Latin rootdermatologistLatin wordsnko
11961196discomfitto make perplex or uneasy, to make someone feel embarassed verb</br>Syn: bring to a sweat, discompose, disconcert, rattle, untune, upsetWhen my mother spoke about my boyfriends criminal past, she hoped it would <b>discomfit</b> me so I would break up with him.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11971197discomposure 1. anxious embarrassment</br>2. a temperament that is perturbed and lacking in composure nounSyn: discomfiture, disconcertion, disconcertmentAs the interregator blasted question after question at me, his colleague remained entirely at his ease and was watching my <b>discomposure</b> with a quiet, mocking smile.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
11981198dignworthyGreek/Latin rootdignity</br> Latin wordsnko
11991199discreetrespectful of privacy or secrecy; quiet; diplomatic adj.<u>Discreet</u> means on the down low, under the radar, careful, but <u>discrete</u> means individual or detachedThe <b><u>discreet</b> Swiss banker</u> hushed in his grey suit and spoke in quiet words1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12001200dormsleepGreek/Latin rootdormitory</br> dormant</br> Latin wordsnko
12011201domesticatecultivate; make fit for cultivation, domestic life, and service to humans verbHumans likely <b>domesticated</b> horses about 5500 years ago on the grasslands of the Eurasian steppe1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12021202dongiveGreek/Latin rootdonor</br> Latin wordsnko
12031203durharden</br> to last</br> lastingGreek/Latin rootdurable</br> Latin wordsnko
12041204dourhard; inflexible; obstinate; sour in aspect adj.Dour and endure most likely come from the Latin word durus which means "hard"Because the coach was disappointed in his teams behavior, <u>he wore a dour <b>expression</b></u> when he gave his post-game speech.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12051205equequalGreek/Latin rootequinox (same length of day and night), equidistant, equipoise(balanced)Latin wordsnko
12061206fac</br> fact</br> fectmake</br> doGreek/Latin rootfactory, Latin wordsnko
12071207ferwildGreek/Latin rootnot to be confused with "ferro", which come from "Fe"=iron. These iron-pertaining words normally have a double "r"feral(wild), ferine(wild animals), ferocious, ferocityLatin wordsnko
12081208fidfaith</br> truthGreek/Latin rootfidelity</br> Latin wordsnko
12091209finendGreek/Latin rootfinish</br> Latin wordsnko
12101210flect</br>flexbendGreek/Latin rootdeflect</br> reflect</br> reflection</br> Latin wordsnko
12111211downcastlow in spirits; depressed; directed downward adj.Syn: blue, depressed, dispirited, down, down in the mouth, downhearted, gloomy, grim, low, low-spiritedThe Dutch football team generally leave the field <b>downcast</b> after playing against Germany1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12121212draconianextremely harsh; very severe, oppressive or strict adj.Named after Dracon,the archon of Athens who laid down a code of laws that mandated death as punishment for minor crimes.Giving someone a life sentence for stealing a loaf of bread is a <b>draconian</b> punishment1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12131213frag</br> fractbreakGreek/Latin rootfragment</br> fractify</br> fraction</br> fractalLatin wordsnko
12141214fugflee</br>Greek/Latin rootfugitive</br> Latin wordsnko
12151215drawlspeaking with slow and lingering utterance, from laziness, lack of spirit; lengthened, slow monotonous utterance nounHe spoke with a <u>Southern <b>drawl</u></b>, and had a cowboy hat and boots to match1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12161216eout</br> awayGreek/Latin rootemigrationLatin wordsnko
12171217em</br> eninto</br> cover with</br> causeGreek/Latin rootemployLatin wordsnko
12181218en</br> ininsideGreek/Latin rootenhance, Latin wordsnko
12191219ergoworkGreek/Latin rootargon(a=not+ergon=work=>inert)</br>ergophobia(fear of work)</br>ergonomic=economic study of work</br>Latin wordsnko
12201220forcompletely (used to intensify the meaning of a word)Greek/Latin rootformidableLatin wordsnko
12211221forein front of</br> previous</br> earlierGreek/Latin rootforemost, forehead, forefront, foreman, forefather, forefinger (next to thumb), forefend(prevent from happening), foreshadow(indicate by signs), foresight(see early), forearm, forebrain(front of brain), forebode(make a prediction), forebear(someone from whom you are descended), forecast, foreclosure(proceedings to retrieve collateral for a non-paid loan), foreclose(prevent from happening), foredoom(doomed beforehand), foredge(inside of book when shelved, opposite to spine), forego(do without), foreground, foregone(well in the past), foregather(put in one spot), forehand, foreknow, foremast(front mast), forename, forenoon, foreordain(determine in advance)Latin wordsnko
12221222dredgerone who fishes or cleans waterways with a dredge, which is an instrument used to gather things by dragging noun1. They were very efficient at hoisting up oysters out of the bay with the <b>dredger</b></br>2. The canals in the Netherlands need to be constantly deepened with a <b>dredger</b></br>3. During the 40th year reunion he <u><b>dredged</b> up old memories</u> from his school days. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12231223gestcarry</br> bringGreek/Latin rootgestation periodLatin wordsnko
12241224grad</br> gressstep</br> goGreek/Latin rootgradual</br> gradient</br> Latin wordsnko
12251225dub1. to honor with a title (eg. A knighthood) or description</br>2. to hit (a ball or shot) poorly</br>3. to provide (a motion-picture film) with a new soundtrack and especially dialogue in a different language verb1. He was <b>dubbed</b> Knight Alexander de Longrée</br>2. He took a massive backswing but his shot was nothing more than <u>a <b>dubbed</b> attempt</u> to hit the ball far and it landed in the rough. </br>3. The Hollywood box office hit was <u><b>dubbed</b> into</u> 15 different languagses1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12261226ductile1. easily influenced </br>2. flexible; pliable adj.Syn1: malleable </br>Syn2: malleable, pliable, pliant, tensile, tractile1. He tended to agree with what everyone else did or said, so he gained a reputation of being too <b>ductile</b>, or easily manipulated</br>2. Copper and tin wire are both <b>ductile</b> and able to be stretched1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12271227hydrwaterGreek/Latin rootanhydous</br> hydraulic</br> Latin wordsnko
12281228integer</br> integra</br> integrumentireGreek/Latin rootinteger</br> integral</br> intergrate</br> Latin wordsnko
12291229jectthrowGreek/Latin rooteject</br> reject</br> inject</br> Latin wordsnko
12301230junctmeet</br> joinGreek/Latin rootjunction</br> Latin wordsnko
12311231duplicitydouble-dealing; deliberate deceptiveness in behavior or speech; acting in bad faith. noun Latin: du/duo=two + plicity=state "twofold, having two parts.Even though the robbers were supposed to be working as a team, each one used <b>duplicity</b> to try and steal from the others.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12321232leg</br> lig</br> lectchoose</br> gatherGreek/Latin rootligamentLatin wordsnko
12331233potentatemonarch; ruler who is unconstrained by law nounLatin: potent= strong + ate=strong person</br>Syn: dictatorTrump is more instinctive dictator than democrat, in the style of his favourite <b>potentate</b>, Saudi Arabias Crown Prince bin Salman.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12341234irredentistWishing to annex same speaking neighbouring regions into own country.adj.Named after Italian Irredentist political party formed 1878 which demanded the annexation of neighboring regions where a part of the population was Italian-speaking. Russia undoubtebly has <b><u>irredentist/b>< ambitions</u>, taking over the Krim and eyeing other regions in the Ukraine and beyond.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12351235promulgate1. proclaim doctrine or law</br>2. make known by official publicationverbLatin: pro "forth" + vulgare "make public, publish."</br>Syn1: declare </br> Syn2: proclaim, announce, promote1. more than 200 colleges and universities have <b>promulgated</b> behavioral codes that punish various forms of harassment</br>2. It seems as though the candidate is airing commercials every hour to <u><b>promulgate</b> his political platform</u>.AMBWeb
12361236prudence1: The ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason</br> 2: sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs</br> 3: skill and good judgment in the use of resources</br> 4: caution or circumspection as to danger or risknounLatin prudentia = "foresight, sagacity." </br>Syn: cautious, carefulness</br>Not to be confused with prude, from French=excessively modest/proudHe advised to use some <u>old-fashioned <b>prudence</b></u> when agreeing to meet face-to-face with an online acquaintance. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12371237luc</br> lumlightGreek/Latin rootluminary</br> lucifer</br> Latin wordsnko
12381238perditionunending damnation; the abode of Satan and the forces of evil; where sinners suffer eternal punishmentnounLatin: Perdre=get lost </br>Syn: Hell, infernoHe did not wish to end up in the the fires of perditionAMBTCE
12391239gonangleGreek/Latin rootpolygon</br> hexagon</br> Latin wordsnko
12401240grangrainGreek/Latin rootgranularLatin wordsnko
12411241helicspiral</br> circularGreek/Latin rootic=nature of, like</br>helix, Latin wordsnko
12421242helisunGreek/Latin roothelium</br> heli-centric</br> Latin wordsnko
12431243hemo-<br> hemato-<br> emia-bloodGreek/Latin root anaemia:an=lack of blood azotemia:azot=nitrogen in the blodd</br> glycemia:glyco=sugar in the blood hematite:tite=stone, ie. bloodlike stone</br> hemoglobin:globule=red cells in blood hemophilia:philia=loves (to shed) blood, ie. bluter</br> hemorrhage:rhage=breaking/tear, ie. losing a lot of blood hemorrhoids:rhoos=stream, ie. stream of blood from veins (in rectal area)</br> hypoglycemia:hypo=under+glyc=sugar, d.h. low sugar level leukemia:leukos=white cell accumulation in blood, ie. cancer</br> thalassemia:thalasse=sea, ie. an inherited blood disease common to those nations around hte mediterreanean sea toxemia:toxon=toxic blood, ie. blood poisoning</br> uremia:disease of urine/urea in blood due to kidney malfunctioningLatin wordsnko
12441244histo bodily tissue/cellsGreek/Latin rootthe word histo actually means standing up (st=stand), from which histogram comeshistamine, histology, histdine all have to do with the cell and biologyLatin wordsnko
12451245judlawGreek/Latin rootjudicial</br> Latin wordsnko
12461246juvenyoungGreek/Latin rootjuvenile</br> Latin wordsnko
12471247lipfatGreek/Latin rootliposuction</br> lipid</br> Latin wordsnko
12481248isoequalGreek/Latin rootisobar</br> isometric</br> Latin wordsnko
12491249lactmilkGreek/Latin rootlactose</br> lactate</br> lactivorous(milk eating)</br>lactescence(milky appearance)</br>lacteal(pertaining to milk)</br>lactation(breast-feeding)Latin wordsnko
12501250lud</br> lusplayGreek/Latin rootallude, allusion, collude, collusion, delude, delusion, elude, elusive, illusion, illusory, interlude, ludicrous, prelude.Latin wordsnko
12511251latersideGreek/Latin rootlateral</br> latitude</br> Latin wordsnko
12521252magngreatGreek/Latin rootmagnificent</br> Latin wordsnko
12531253edicta formal command or order issued by an authority and having the force of lawnounLatin: ex "out, out of" + dicere "to say"=>to proclaimMost states have an <b>edict</b> that forbids texting while driving.AMBTCE
12541254marSeaGreek/Latin rootmaritime</br> marine</br> Latin wordsnko
12551255hirelingsomeone doing a job solely for the moneynounHirelings often do jobs that are distasteful, ones that could involve lying, cheating, or worse</br>Syn: mercenary, pensionaryThe Russian <b>hirelings</b> fill in blogs and social media sites all day with subversive Russian propagandaAMBTCE
12561256megalarge, sometimes also a millionGreek/Latin rootmegaphone, mealithi (large stone), megabyte (1 mio byte)Latin wordsnko
12571257mentmindGreek/Latin rootmental</br> Latin wordsnko
12581258sub-, su-, sou, sousword-forming element meaning "under, beneath; behind; from under; resulting from further division"Greek/Latin rootsu- used before c, f, g, p, sometimes r & msubstantialLatin wordsnko
12591259apostatizeabandon one.s faith, principles, or churchnounapostate is the person who is apostatizingHe became more and more of a hedonist, eventually <b>apostatizing</b> and leaving the churchAMBTCE
12601260edge outto slowly become more successful, popular, etc., than (someone or something) verbThe company is gradually <u><b>edging out</b> the competition</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12611261migrwanderGreek/Latin rootmigrate</br> emmigrate</br> migrant</br> Latin wordsnko
12621262mirlookGreek/Latin rootDon't confuse with Russian 'mir'=peacemirage</br> mirror</br>Latin wordsnko
12631263excise a tax. nouncomes from a similarly sounding old Dutch word for tax, not linked to the "excise"as a verb.when you take more than a litre of alcohol into the country, you will need to pay 20% <b><u>excise</u> duty</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12641264felicity1. a state of happiness state ranging from contentment to intense joy</br>2. pleasing and appropriate manner or style (especially manner or style of expression)noun Latin: felicitatem / felix "happy, fortunate, fruitful, fertile"</br>Syn: happiness, blissfulness, felicitousness1. When my mother watched me graduate, she had such a look of <b>felicity</b> on her face.</br>2a. The curve of her mouth gives her a Mona Lisa smile, but that's just a <b>felicity</b> of her anatomy.</br>2b. The poet was well known for his <b>felicities</b> with wordsAMBTCE
12651265mot</br> movemoveGreek/Latin rootmotor, motion, locomotive, promotion, demotion, </br>movementLatin wordsnko
12661266edificebuilding, especially one of imposing appearance or size; a structure that has a roof and walls noun Old French edifice "building"</br>To merit being called an edifice, a building must be important.The companys world headquarters will soon be relocated to an imposting <b>edifice</b> down the street.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12671267mutchangeGreek/Latin rootmutation (a change), mutability (ability to change), mutable(changeable), mutant(a changed being), mutate (to change), mutagen(an agent that generates change)Latin wordsnko
12681268myomuscleGreek/Latin rootmyasthenia (weakness of the muscles), myalgia (muscular pain), myology (the science of muscles), Latin wordsnko
12691269mandorder, summonGreek/Latin rootmandatory, command, countermand(retract an order), mandamus (court order/summons), mandatary(somone who has received a mandate), demand (completely order), reprimand(summon(=mand) to press/hold=pri, back=re), Latin wordsnko
12701270efface1. rub or wipe out; make indistinct as if by rubbing</br>2. to make (oneself) modestly or shyly inconspicuous verbFrench: effacer: remove the face of. 1. the coins had their most important markings <b>effaced</b> through their use in time.</br>2. He newcomer <b>effaced</b> himself from the discussion in the room1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12711271navshipGreek/Latin rootnavigate, navigation, navigator, naval, navyLatin wordsnko
12721272negdenyGreek/Latin rootnegate</br> negative</br> Latin wordsnko
12731273ellipsis1. the omission of one or more words that are obviously understood but that must be supplied to make a construction grammatically complete</br>2. punctuation (often 3 full-stops) that is used to show where words have been left out noun1. “Begin when ready” for “Begin when you are ready” is an example of <b>ellipsis</b>2. The plural of ellipsis is…ellipses, so please Alexander, don't ask Daddy to edit out the …<b>ellipsis</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12741274novnewGreek/Latin rootnoveltyLatin wordsnko
12751275oculeyeGreek/Latin rootocular(pertaining to eye), oculist(eye doctor), oculus(an eye)Latin wordsnko
12761276operworkGreek/Latin rootoperate</br> Latin wordsnko
12771277eluding1. avoiding capture,especially by cunning</br>2. to escape the perception, understanding, or grasp of </br>3. defies explanation adj.Latin: ex "out, away" + ludere "to play"=>to get away by playing tricks/games1. The mice seemed to be masters at <u>eluding</u> the traps2. The subtlety of the foreigner's statements were simply <u>eluding</u> to them</br>3. Sometimes there are phenomena in quantum physics that <u><b>elude</b> explanation</u>.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12781278emaciatedthin or haggard, especially from hunger or disease adj.Syn: decay, droop, fade, fail, flag, go, lag, languish, sag, sink, waste (away), weaken, wilt, witherThe TV scenes of children's bloated bellies and <b>emaciated</b> bodies was enough to initiate an outpouring of support against the famine. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12791279emaciationextreme leanness (usually caused by starvation or disease) noun</br>Syn: boniness, bonyness, gauntness, macerationThis collective <b>emaciation</b> of the Venezualian people is referred to dryly there as “the Maduro diet,”1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12801280pel</br> pulsedriveGreek/Latin rootimpel(drive into), expel(drive out) dispel(drive aside), repel(drive back), propel(drive forward), compel(drive to go with)</br>impulse, catapult, Latin wordsnko
12811281pend</br> penshangGreek/Latin rootpending</br>pendant</br> Latin wordsnko
12821282unwontedunusualadj.Deutsche Wortstamm: Ungewohnt, ungewöhnlichThe paralyzed soldier is going to receive the highest military award for <u>displaying <b>unwonted</b> courage</u>AMBTCE
12831283petrstone</br> rockGreek/Latin root Peter "you are the rock that I will build my Church"</br> said Jesuspetrified</br> Latin wordsnko
12841284emancipatefree from bondage, oppression, or restraint; liberate verbLatin: e- "out," + manus "hand," + -cip- "to take." => "to be taken out of someone's hands"</br>Syn: manumit, liberateAbraham Lincoln is credited with <b>emancipating</b> the North Amercian slaves1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12851285emblazon1. adorn richly with prominent markings; </br>2. make illustrious; celebrate verbSyn: to colour</br>1. Colleges and universities nearly all sell sweatshirts <u><b>emblazoned</b> with their logos</u>.</br>2. The friends of the war hero ensured that his deeds were <u><b>emblazoned</b> by a poet</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12861286phonsoundGreek/Latin rootgramaphone, telephone, Latin wordsnko
12871287plicfold</br> bend</br>weaveGreek/Latin rootpliable, ply (as in layer, eg. Toilet paper), accomplice (someone woven into doing something), implicate(to fold into), duplicate (fold twice,ie. Copy), comply (interweaved with)Latin wordsnko
12881288embroider1. decorate with needlework; </br>2. add details to verb1. His uniform vest reads "sheriff" in big letters, with his sheriff star shining right above his <b><b>embroidered</b> name</u>.2. The fisherman <u><b>embroidered</b> a story</u> about the 38 inch striped bass he almost caught this morning.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12891289encompass1. surround; form a circle or ring around; </br>2. include, enclose; envelop verbLatin: en- "make, put in" + compass="Zirkel" auf Deutsch (nicht Kompass) </br>Syn :contain1a. A lecture on Edward Hopper <b><u>encompassed</b> all aspects</u> of his life and art</br>1b. The plan <b>ecompassed</b> a number of aims1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12901290potdrinkGreek/Latin rootpotable water</br> Latin wordsnko
12911291potenpowerfulGreek/Latin rootpotentate</br> potentLatin wordsnko
12921292prehend</br> prehenstake</br> graspGreek/Latin rootcomprehend</br> aprehend</br> Latin wordsnko
12931293protfirstGreek/Latin rootprototypeLatin wordsnko
12941294endowmentAn endowment is a gift: </br>1. money given to an institution like a college. </br>2. a natural gift, say of a physical attribute or a talent. nounSyn1: gift, donation</br>Syn2: gift, natural endowment, talent, in-born capability1. The <b>endowments</b> received by the elite American universities often reaches incredible levels of up to 50 billion dollars. </br> The porn actor said his claim to fame was that he was <u>well <b>endowed</u></b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12951295orthostraightGreek/Latin rootorthoate</br>orthodontist</br> Latin wordsnko
12961296narrtellGreek/Latin rootnarrative, narration, narrate, narrator, narrable(capable of being told), Latin wordsnko
12971297odpass</br> wayGreek/Latin rootodysseyLatin wordsnko
12981298enfranchiseadmit to rights of citizenship, especially the right to vote verbLatin: en- "make, put in" + franc "free" =>make free</br>Ant :disenfranchise1. Slaves were <b>enfranchised</b> in the mid-19th century</br>2. The 19th amendment <b>enfranchised</b> millions of women across the USA.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
12991299pept</br> pepsdigestionGreek/Latin rootpeptic acidLatin wordsnko
13001300phytplant</br> growGreek/Latin rootaerophyte (plant that grows from air), epiphyte (plant that grows on other plants,Latin wordsnko
13011301engrossconsume all of your attention or time;occupy exclusively; absorb; write or print the final draft of; make large or larger verbSyn: absorb, engulf, immerse, plunge, soak up, steep, immerse, plunge1a. The web series makes a thriller that will <b>engross</b> you to the last episode.</br>1b. He was <u>totally <b>engrossed</b></u> with his collection of action dolls</br>2. The final handwritten document was <b>engrossed</b> and handed in.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13021302plaud</br> plod</br> plaus</br> plosapprove</br> clapGreek/Latin rootapplaud</br> laudable</br> Latin wordsnko
13031303illicitnot allowed by law or customadj.Latin: in- "not, opposite of" + licitus "lawful" =illegalIt's illegal to kill endangered elephants, but many poachers still engage in <u>the <b>Illicit</b> ivory trade</u>AMBWeb
13041304cessionyielding to another; ceding or surrendering nounLatin : "a giving up"</br>related to <u>secession</u>, ie. government breaking away from another, or "giving up" the connection between themHaving been conquered by Germany in 6 days, the Netherlands had no choice but to agree to the <b>cession</b> of their land to the Nazis1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13051305licitauthorized, sanctioned by, or in accordance with lawadj.Latin: licitus "lawful"Sometimes, what legally separates <b>licit</b> and <u>illicit</u> pesticides is little more than a slip of paper.AMBWeb
13061306pyrfireGreek/Latin rootpyromaniac</br> Pyre</br>Latin wordsnko
13071307precocious1. characterized by or characteristic of exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude)</br>2. appearing or developing earlyadj.Latin : pre "before" + coquere "to ripen"=> to ripen/mature early1. The <b>precocious</b> student entered Queens College at the age of 16.</br>2. <b>Precocious</b> flowers appear before the leaves as in some species of magnoliasAMBMashima
13081308incipientonly partly in existence; imperfectly formed; emergingadj.Latin incipere "to begin."</br>Same word root as "inception"The townsfolk were assured that any <b>incipient</b> major threat in the town would be nipped in the budAMBMashima
13091309reg</br>rig</br>rectrule</br> governGreek/Latin rootregent, regulate, correct, Latin wordsnko
13101310rid</br>rislaughGreek/Latin rootridicule</br> Latin wordsnko
13111311ruptbreakGreek/Latin rootrupture</br>erupt</br>disrupt</br>interrupt</br>corrupt</br>Latin wordsnko
13121312sacr</br>sanctholyGreek/Latin rootsacrement</br> sanctuaryLatin wordsnko
13131313enjoindirect or impose with urgent appeal; order with emphasis verbEnjoin used to mean "bring together" , but today the only thing enjoin brings together is a command and the person on the receiving end of that orderThe government <b>enjoined</b> the revellers to stop going out to pubs as of immediate effect, as this would only cause COVID to spread faster. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13141314enraptureplease intensely; fill with great delight or joy verb</br>Syn: delight, enchant, enthral, enthrall, ravish, transportI was <b>enraptured</b> by Adele's gorgeous voice and stunning way of interpreting a song1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13151315ensconcesettle oneself securely or comfortably; place or conceal in secure place verbLatin: en- "make, put in" + sconce "small fortification, shelter"=>to put in a place of protection1a. She has gone home with the flu and <b>ensconced</b> herself on the couch with the remote control, tissues, her phone, and a big glass of orange juice</br>1b. The gold price is now very stable and comfortably <b>ensconced</b> in the 1300 to 1350 range.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13161316sec</br>sectcutGreek/Latin rootdisect, intersect, intersection, Latin wordsnko
13171317sed</br>sid</br>sesssit</br> seatGreek/Latin rootsedentary, Latin wordsnko
13181318ad hominenA way of arguing or criticizing that ignores the larger issues at hand and just attacks someone's characteradj.Latin: "aimed at the man."Unfortunately, people are skipping to the assumed end of the debate right away and concentrating their efforts on <u>trading <b>ad hominem</b> attacks</u>.VocabSMB
13191319enthrallcapture; attract and hold by charm, beauty, or excellence; hold in bondage or subjection verbLatin: en- "make, put in" + thrall "drallen" in Deutsch=> encapture</br>Syn: delight, enchant, enrapture, enthral, ravish, transportFor years these master magicians have been <u><b>enthralling</b> audiences</u> with their astounding illusions1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13201320charycautious; sparing or restrained about giving adj.the adjective from careAs he lost two teeth in last years rugby season, he was <b>chary</b> of signing up again this year.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13211321sistplace</br> standGreek/Latin rootDeutsch: Sistieren: zum Stillstand bringeninsist (stand upon a point), assist (to help take a stand), desist (stop taking a stand), resist (take a stand against), persist(thoroughly take a stand), consist(together with being )Latin wordsnko
13221322solv</br>soluloosenGreek/Latin rootdissolve, solve, solution, resolve, dissolution, etc.Latin wordsnko
13231323entomologista scientist who studies insects nounreek entomon="insect“Everybody loves fireflies,” said Sara Lewis, an <b>entomologist</b> who specializes in lightning bugs at Tufts University1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13241324sophwisdomGreek/Latin rootsophomore</br>Latin wordsnko
13251325spec</br>spect</br>spiclook</br> appearGreek/Latin rootspectator, spectacles, spectacular, Latin wordsnko
13261326spirbreatheGreek/Latin rootaspiration</br> expiration</br> Latin wordsnko
13271327sta-standGreek/Latin rootAfghanistan, Pakistan, etc.; apostate; astatic; circumstance; constable; constant; constitute; contrast; distance; ecstasy; epistasis; establish; estate; extant; hypostasis; instant; institute; interstice; isostatic; obstacle; obstinate; persist; prostate; prostitute; resist; restive; restore; solstice; stable, stage; stalwart; stamen; stand; standard; stanza; static; station; statistics; stator; statue; stature; status; statute; staunch; stay ; stoic; stool; store; stound; stow; subsist; substance Latin wordsnko
13281328string</br>strictbindGreek/Latin rootstringent, string, Latin wordsnko
13291329stru</br>structbuildGreek/Latin rootstructure</br> Latin wordsnko
13301330chastenrid of excess; refine or purify; correct by punishment or reproof verbChasten is related to the word chastise, meaning "to punish severely."</br>Latin root castusAs a parent, I dont feel spanking is a good way <u>to <b>chasten</b></u> your kids.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13311331entreatyappeal, petition, plea nounFrench: to enter into discussions how to be treated.</br>actually, Ain't too proud to beg" is what the word entreaty is all about.</br>Syn: adjuration, conjuration, cry, desire, pleading, prayer, solicitation, suit, suppliance, supplication1a. Recent <b>entreaties</b> from Washington — including, apparently, the promise of funding — changed the companys mind.</br>1b. An <b>entreaty</b> to stop the fighting.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13321332rambranchGreek/Latin rootramificationLatin wordsnko
13331333enumeratelist each one; mention one by one verbLatin enumerates: “to reckon up or count over"He <b>enumerated</b> every option that they had in front of them. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13341334sanhealthGreek/Latin rootsanitation</br> sanitary</br>sanitorium</br>sanitize</br>saneLatin wordsnko
13351335enunciatespeak distinctly; state or set forth clearly or systematically; pronounce; articulate verbLatin: ex "out" + nuntiare "to announce"=>declare, express</br>Good enunciation is similar to pronunciation, but describes more specifically how clearly someone expresses themselves</br>Syn: articulate, vocalise1a. The speech coach reminded the students to <b><u>enunciate</b> their words</u> so people could comprehend what they were saying.</br>1b. The teacher was careful to <u><b>enunciat</b>e each step of the process</u> so her young students would not be confused1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13361336chagrinanxiety caused by humiliation or injured pride; disappointment nounFrench: "melancholy, anxiety, vexation."<u>Much to my <b>chagrin</u></b>, I failed my math test.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13371337environsparts or places which surround another place, or lie in its neighborhood; suburbs nounenvirons=surroundings in French. Same word root as "environment"Upon arrival at the park hotel, he decided to take a walk in the <b>environs</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13381338sonsoundGreek/Latin rootsonor, dissonance, sonata, sonantLatin wordsnko
13391339epicurea person with refined taste, especially in food and wine noun"follower of Epicurus,", Athenian philosopher who taught that pleasure is the highest good</br>Syn: bon vivant, epicurean, foodie, gastronome, gourmetMy uncle is an <b>epicure</b> who will travel across the country to find a tasty dish1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13401340teg</br>tectcoverGreek/Latin roottectonic plates</br> Latin wordsnko
13411341epigramwitty thought or saying, usually short; short, witty poem expressing a single thought or observation nounLatin epigramma "an inscription"</br>An epigram is a little poem or clever statement, and an epigraph is a sub-category of epigram, viz: a witty statement that's inscribed somewhere, such as on a building or at the beginning of a chapter or book. One of Oscar Wilde's many memorable <b>epigrams</b> is "I can resist everything but temptation."1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13421342epistlea writing directed or sent to a person or persons; a written communication; a specially long, formal letter nounTwenty-one books in the New Testament are <b>epistles</b>, 13 of which were written by Paul to various congretations. 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13431343ten</br>tainhold</br> reachGreek/Latin root(ab=apart, away from)abstain,abstention,abstinence,abstinent,</br>(at=toward, to)attend,attention,attenuate,attenuation,</br>(con=with, together) contain,contend,content,contents,continence,continent,continue,</br>(de=down,opposite of, completely) detain,detente,detention,</br>(dis=not, away)distend,distention</br>(ex=out) extend,extenuate,extenuation,</br>(hypo=too little, under) hypotenuse,hypotonia(in=in or not),intend,intone, ,</br>tantra,temple,temporal,tenable,tenacious,tenacity,tenant,tend,tendency,tender,tendon,tendril,tenement,tenesmus,tenet,tennis,tenon,tenor,tense,tensile,tension,tensor,tent,tenter,tenterhooks,tenuous,tenure,tetanus,thin,tone,tonic, </br>countenance,entertain,isotonic,locum-tenens,maintain,monotony,neoteny,obtain,ostensible,peritoneus,pertain,pertinacious,portend,pretend,retain,retinue,subtend,sustain, lieutenantLatin wordsnko
13441344termendGreek/Latin rootterminal</br> terminus</br> Latin wordsnko
13451345ter</br>terrland</br> earthGreek/Latin rootterresital</br> terraine</br> termite</br> Latin wordsnko
13461346thermheatGreek/Latin rootthermometer</br> thermal</br> therme</br> isotherm</br> Latin wordsnko
13471347tort</br>torstwistGreek/Latin roottorsion</br> Latin wordsnko
13481348equinerelating to, or characteristic of a horse adj.Latin equinus "of a horse, of horses; of horsehair," from equus "horse"</br>bovine - cows, porcine -pigs, feline- cats, canine -dogsMany young girls go through an <u><b>equine</b> phase</u>, where they are obsessed with all things horse—books, dolls, images, and, last but not least, actual horseback riding.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13491349espousetake in marriage; marry; give one's loyalty or support to; adopt verbsame word root as "spouse". Originally espouse did mean "to marry," but meaning evolved to include other long-term commitments as well, such as support for a principle or a causeI have a friend who <b>espouses</b> environmentalism and as a result walks whenever possible instead of taking the car1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13501350espycatch sight of; glimpse; discover at a distance verbDeutsche Wortstamm :spähen</br> primarily a literary word that you'll mostly find in books.</br>Syn: descry, spot, spyamong the several horses … she <b>espied</b> the white mustang1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13511351umbrashadeGreek/Latin rootpenumbra</br> Latin wordsnko
13521352urbcityGreek/Latin rooturban</br> Latin wordsnko
13531353taxarrangementGreek/Latin roottaxomologist</br> Latin wordsnko
13541354ethereal1. of or relating to the regions beyond the earth , ranging from celestial, heavenly to unworldly, spiritual </br>2. lacking material substance: immaterial, intangible or marked by unusual delicacy or refinement adj.Greek ether = “air” or “the upper regions of space.</br>1a. The soprano had an <b>ethereal</b> voice that sounded as if she belonged in a choir of angels.</br>1b. The moon came into view over the wintry landscape, its light accented by an <b>ethereal</b> halo. </br>2. The tapestry was woven so finely that it made the perfect backdrop for her collection of <b>ethereal</b> art miniatures.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13551355chidescold mildly so as to correct or improve; express disapproval verbI dont want the boss to <u><b>chide</b> me for being late</u> again, so Im setting the alarm for a half hour earlier.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13561356val</br>vailbe strongGreek/Latin rootavail</br> Latin wordsnko
13571357evanescentfleeting; vanishing or likely to vanish like vapor adj.Latin ex "out of," + vanescere "to vanish."=>vanish away</br>Syn: brief, deciduous, ephemeral, flash, fleeting, fugacious, fugitive, impermanent, momentary, passing, short-lived, temporary, transient, transitory<u>The <b>evanescent</b> lightning</u> disappeared just as quickly as it appeared.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13581358evinceshow or demonstrate clearly; overcome; conquer verbSyn: express, show, declare, demonstrate, display, expose, give away, manifest, revealJohn was never able to <b>evince</b> even a pretense of interest during his economics class.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13591359verbwordGreek/Latin rootverbose, verbal, verbacity, verbacious, proverb, adverb, verbatium(word for word), verbiage (abundance of words)Latin wordsnko
13601360exaltraise in rank or dignity; praise verbex "out, out of, from within" + <b>a</b>ltus "high"=>exalt =raise to the highest</br>Syn: praise, glorify, honour, raise above rankIn church, we <u><b>exalt</b> our God</u> in prayer.</br>For a fee, most celebrities will <b>exalt</b> a product by pretending to like it.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13611361exaltation1. act of exalting or raising high; state of being exalted;</br>2. an excessively intensified sense of well-being, power, or importance</br>3. the location of a planet in the zodiac at which it is believed to exert its maximum influence nounex "out, out of, from within" + <b>a</b>ltus "high"=>exalt =raise to the highest1. After the <u>prayers of <b>exaltations</b></u>, the mass continued</br>2. Vasquez, the portly man whose <u>cries of <b>exaltation</b></u> at a double rainbow turned him into a viral star, passed away at 57. </br>3. The <u><b>exaltation</b> of Mercury</u> had a significant effect on his horoscope.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13621362vinc</br>victconquerGreek/Latin rootvictor</br> victorious</br> vincible</br> Latin wordsnko
13631363exceptionableopen or liable to objection or debate; liable to cause disapproval adj.from exception (in the take exception to sense) + -able.</br>Syn: objectionableAlthough <b>exceptionable</b>, the mans racist and inappropriate views are supported by many backwoods constituents.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13641364exchequerone of the superior courts of law; department of state having charge of the collection and management of the royal revenue nounSyn: treasuryThe <u>chancellor of the <b>Exchequer</b></u> is called the Finance Minister in most other countries, although the US calls it the Finance Secretary.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13651365excoriatescold with biting harshness; strip skin off; abrade verbLatin: to flay, strip off the skin of a hide</br>This verb goes beyond mere criticism; it implies anger, a harsh and insulting tone, and even a scathing attack1. How dare my mother <b>excoriate</b> me for getting pregnant outside of marriage when she did the same thing?</br>2. When I fell off my father's recumbant bike, I <b>excorciated</b> the skin on the inside of my lower arm.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13661366volwish</br> willGreek/Latin rootvolunatary</br> Latin wordsnko
13671367vor</br>voureatGreek/Latin rootvoracious, Latin wordsnko
13681368xen</br>xenoforeignGreek/Latin rootxenophobe</br> Latin wordsnko
13691369xerdryGreek/Latin rootxerox</br> Latin wordsnko
13701370execrablevery bad; extremely inferior; intolerable; very hateful adj.Latin: "to utter a curse; to hate or abhor."</br>Syn: deplorable, miserable, woeful, wretched</br>Most of the people who survived the <u><b>execrable</b> conditions of Nazi concentration camps</u> report that they still experience nightmares of those horrible days.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13711371allusion</br>illusion</br>delusionallusion=An allusion is a reference, direct or implied, to something or someone </br> illusion=An illusion, on the other hand, is something that deceives the mind or senses by creating a false impression of reality.</br>A delusion is a false belief or opinionnounTry associating the beginning I in illusion with an eye, relating the term to optical illusions.</br>Keep in mind the prefix de-, denoting privation or negation, provides a hint to the more serious contexts in which this term is sometimes used.The authors new book contains an <b>allusion</b> to mythological gods</br>A mirage is a type an optical illusion. </br>it was heartbreaking to witness my ailing grandmothers <b>delusion</b> that her deceased husband was aliveEasily confused wordsKhan
13721372demur </br> demuredemur=To express disagreement or refuse to do something </br> demure=Quiet and well behaved (especially of women and children)noun, verb1. demur from French/Latin: de=completely + mor (as in moratium)=> to linger, to tarry</br>2. demure is an old French surname, with " de mû", which means "ripe/mature"The secretary <b><u>demurred</b> to</u> bring coffee for her boss, even though she was of <u>quiet <b>demure</b></u>Easily confused wordsKhan
13731373discreet </br> discretediscreet=Careful not to cause embarrassment or attract too much attention, especially by keeping something secret </br> discrete=Having a clear independent shape or form; separateadj.Swiss banks are discreet -but do not insist that married couples each have their own discrete bank accountEasily confused wordsKhan
13741374disparage </br> disparatedisparage=To criticize someone or something in a way that shows you do not respect or value them </br> disparate=Different in every wayadj., verbThe formal manager and punk employee wore disparate clothing, but the manager never disparaged him in any wayEasily confused wordsKhan
13751375fortify </br> mortifyfortify=To strengthen something, especially in order to protect it</br>mortify=highly embarassedverbHe was <b>mortified</b> to found out his expensive supplements were fake and would not <b>fortify</b> him !Easily confused wordsKhan
13761376immure </br> inureimmure=Kept as a prisoner or closed away and out of sight </br> inure=If you suffer or experience something unpleasant, you become familiar with it and able to accept and bear itadj.She locked all the doors and <b><u>immured</b> herself in the study</u> - and after 6 months of studiousness <u>had become <b>inure</b> to that hard life</u>.Easily confused wordsKhan
13771377inane </br> innateinane=Extremely silly or with no real meaning or importance </br> innate=A quality or ability that you were born with, not one you have learnedadj.in=in + nat=born=>born withHe had an innate ability to make inane commentsEasily confused wordsKhan
13781378incumbent </br> recumbentincumbent=The person who has or had a particular official position adj.Latin: in=in, on, upon + recumbent=Lying down => resting or lying on somethingThe <u>future <b>incumbent</b></u> went to his job interview in a <b><u>recumbent</b> bicyle</u>Easily confused wordsKhan
13791379loath </br> loatheloath=To be unwilling to do something </br> loath<b><u>e</b></u>=To hat<b><u>e</b></u> someone or somethingverb, nounboth have same Germanic root: "leiden", with its 2 meanings, too. </br>1. Leiden etwas zu tun </br> jmdm nicht leiden können.The secretary was <b><u>loath</b> to do the filing</u> and <b><u>loathed</b> her boss</u> for insisting she did it Easily confused wordsKhan
13801380circumword-forming element meaning (all)around, round about on all sidesLatin Prefixcircumnavigate: sail around the globe</br>circumpolar: surround one of the poles</br>circumscribe: to make a circle around= to encompass</br>circumspect: looking around from all sides=suspect</br>circumvent: to go around</br>circumvolve: to turn or to cause to roll aroundCirca, circuit, circumcision, circus, circumference, circumspection, circumstance</br> circadian: about a day</br>circumambient: surroundings</br> circumambulate: to walk around</br>circumbendibus: a round about way - round the bend</br>circumcise: cut around</br>circumflex: sign bent around</br> circumfluent:a fluid flowing around</br>circumjacent:bordering on every side</br>circumlocution: a round about way of speaking, ie. elusiveLatin wordsnko
13811381venal</br>venialvenal=A person is willing to behave in a way that is not honest or moral in exchange for money <br / >venial=Describes a wrong action that is not serious and therefore easy to forgiveadj. venal same root as "vendre" in French;</br>venail: Latin venialis "pardonable"The <u><b>venial</b> acts of the cheeky children</u> in no way are comparable to those terrible acts committed by <u><b>venal</b> persons</u> to satify their avarice.Easily confused wordsKhan
13821382contra</br> contro</br> counteragainstLatin Prefixcounter productive</br> counter force</br> Latin wordsnko
13831383dedown</br> opposite of</br> away from</br> about</br>completelyLatin Prefixdecline</br> descent</br> Latin wordsnko
13841384demihalfPrefixword-forming element meaning half</br> half-sized</br> partial</br> used in technical terms </br> FrenchdemigodLatin wordsnko
13851385testify</br>testytestify=To speak seriously about something, especially in a court of law; to give or provide proof </br> testy=Easily annoyed and not patientverb, adj. The impatient and <b>testy</b> witness was forced to wait his turn when <b>testifying</b> in court. Easily confused wordsKhan
13861386wraith</br>wrathwraith=A spirit of a dead person which is sometimes represented as a pale, transparent image of that person <br/ >wrath=Extreme angernounA 19th century photographer superimposed a wispy image on a print and claimed that he had managed to photograph a <b>wraith</b>, but this soon generated a lot of <b>wrath</b> from serious customers, who recognised the fraud. Easily confused wordsKhan
13871387equiequalLatin Prefixequinox, Latin wordsnko
13881388e</br> ex</br> extraout of</br> fromLatin Prefixexuberant,exacerbation,exact,exaggerate,exalt,examine,example,exanimate,exarch,exasperate,excavate,exceed,excel,excellence,excellent,excelsior,except,excerpt,excess,exchange,excise,excision,excite,exclaim,exclude,exclusion,excommunicate,excommunication,excoriate,excrement,excrescence,excrescent,excrete,excruciate,exculpate,excursion,excuse,execrate,execration,execute,exegesis,exempt,exemption,exercise,exertLatin wordsnko
13891389extra part 2 of 2. out of</br> beyondLatin Prefixbeyond the=bt, ie. extraordinary (bt ordinary),extraterrestrial(bt earth), extrasensory(bt senses), extrovert(bt turn), extra-curricular(curriculum), extrajudicial: (bt legal system), extramarital(bt marriage),extramural=(bt classroom walls),extraneous(bt strange)=not belonging to,extrapolate,extraspection(bt observation), extraterritoriality(bt territory),extravasation(bt vessel/cell)Latin wordsnko
13901390hypertoo muchLatin Prefixhyper ventilate</br> hyperbole</br>Latin wordsnko
13911391hypotoo little</br> underLatin Prefixhypo-allergenic, hypocaust(burning below=underfloor heating), hypochondria(under belief), hypocrisy, hypodermic, hypogamy(marriage to a lower caste), hypogastrium(below the stomach), hypogean(lives below the earth(ge)), hypoglycemia(too little blood sugar), hypomania(better insight due to being under the influence of a "high"), hyponymy(word that is subordinatedly interchangeable with a word (but not vice versa), hypostasis, hypotaxis, hypotenuse, hypothalamus, hypothecate, hypothermia, hypothesis, hypotonia, hypotonic, hypoxia(bLatin wordsnko
13921392exegesisexplanation; interpretation, especially of biblical or religious text nounGreek: ex "out" + hegeisthai "to lead, guide"=>explanation, interpretation often by somene else</br>"Jesus" seems to be linked to the greek root word, too. </br>eisegesis is to interpret a text oneselfBecause the youth minister wanted the children to easily understand the scripture, he wrote a simple <b>exegesis</b> of the passage.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13931393vindicate</br>vindictivevindicate=To prove that what someone said or did was right or true, after other people thought it was wrong <br /> vindictive=Having or showing a wish to harm someone because you think that they have harmed you; unwilling to forgiveverb, adj. After the forensic investigator, to everyone's surprise, <b>vindicated</b> the accused's statements with facts, the victim's family became very <b>vendicative</b> and threatened him. Easily confused wordsKhan
13941394exhortationact of practice of exhorting; act of inciting to laudable deeds; incitement to that which is good; language intended to incite and encourage nounex- "thoroughly" + hortari "encourage, urge"=>incitement by means of argument, appeal, or admonition</br>Syn: incitement, pep talk, When a vaccine for COVID 19 appears, you can be sure that there will be many <b>exhortations</b> from governments througout the world to have their people vaccinated1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13951395exodusdeparture of a large number of people nounGreek ex "out" + hodos "a way, path, road; a ride, journey, march"=> a going outIf the fire alarm goes off in your building, be sure to join the <b>exodus</b> of people who are heading outside to the parking lot.</br>The brain-drain <b>exodus</b> from South Africa does not seem to bother the ANC government at all.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13961396neonewLatin Prefixneoliberal</br> Latin wordsnko
13971397nonnotLatin Prefixnon existant</br> Latin wordsnko
13981398exponent1. one who is a big promoter of something, ie. Champions, practices, or exemplifies a cause</br> 2. math. Symbol indicating n-fold muliplication nounLatin: "to put forth"</br> Syn: advocate, advocator, apostle, backer, booster, champion, expounder, espouser, friend, gospeler , herald, hierophant, high priest, paladin, promoter, proponent, protagonist, supporter, true believer, tub-thumper, white knightThe school-teacher was an <b>exponent</b> of the four-day school and work week as she found she had too little holiday.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
13991399expoundexplain or describe in detail verbFrench: espondre = "to elaborate" or "put forth" (same root as "respond")Oma's handwritten pie recipe called for "some sugar," "plenty of butter," and "sliced apples," so I asked her to <b>expound</b> by adding measurements of how much of each to use.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14001400expropriatetake possession of; transfer another's property to oneself verbLatin: ex "away from" + propriare "take as one's own"=>to take away from someone else and make one's own. </br> typically used to describe taking property from someone by a state or city.When the farmer refused to sell part of his land needed for road expansion, it was simply <b>expropriated</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14011401expungecancel; remove; erase or strike out verbLatin : ex "out" + pungere "to prick, pierce"=>prick out</br>Syn: abolish, annihilate, black out, blot out, cancel, clean (up), efface, eradicate, erase, exterminate, extirpate, liquidate, obliterate, root (out), rub out, snuff (out), stamp (out), sweep (away), wipe out1a . I would like to <b>expunge</b> my ex-husband from my memory.</br>1b. Government censors <b>expunged</b> text in documents before making them public. 1c. Criminal records would still count against an asylum-seeker even if their convictions were <b>expunged</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14021402expurgateclean; remove offensive parts of book verbto purge outEvery time a 4 letter word was mentioned on TV, a loud simulataneous Beep would <b>expurgate</b> it1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14031403exquisiteexcellent; intricate and beautiful in design or execution adj. Latin exquisitus "to search out"1a. She wore an <u><b>exquisite</b> dress</u>, which left all the guests staring in surprise</br>1b. She was known to have <b><u>exquisite</b> taste</u></br>He suffered <b>exquisite</b> pain after breaking his ribs.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14041404extenuateweaken; lessen or attempt to lessen seriousness of, especially by providing partial excuses verbLatin: "to thin" or "make thin"(same root as "extend")The fact that the woman was repeatedly beaten and debased by her husband were accepted as <u><b>extenuating</b> circumstances</u> for her murdering him.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14051405extirpateroot out; eradicate, literally or figuratively; destroy wholly verb"to weed out by the roots."</br>Syn: wiped out, erradicate, root out, uproot.1a. Hopefully <u>the fumigation will <b>extirpate</b> the bedbugs</u> brought with me in my suitcase on my travels.</br>1b. The dodo was <b>extirpated</b> due to hunting and the introduction of predators in their habitat.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14061406extrinsic1. external; not essential; extraneous adj.</br>Syn: accidental, adventitious, alien, extraneous, external, foreign, supervenient</br>Ant : intrinsic1a. You have to consider the <b>extrinsic</b> factors in the success of the business.</br>1b. The feature is extrinsic to the building1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14071407reback</br> againLatin PrefixreturnLatin wordsnko
14081408retrobackwardLatin Prefixretroactively, Latin wordsnko
14091409seapart</br> awayLatin PrefixseparateLatin wordsnko
14101410ipso factoby that very fact or act , as an inevitable resultLatinLatin: Ipso facto literally means "by that very fact"A liberal arts education does not <b>ipso facto</b> lead to a life of low-wage jobs and financial irresponsibilityvocabSMB
14111411exalt/exultTo exalt, means to glorify or elevate something, but to exult is to rejoice. verbex "out, out of, from within" + <b>a</b>ltus "high"=>exalt =raise to the highest</br>ex"out, out of, from within" + sauter:jump=> jump for joyWhile she <b>exalted</b> God in the highest, she was <b>exulted</b> when she got the last two tickets to see Robbie Williams.Easily confused wordsSMB
14121412superabove</br> beyondLatin Prefixsupercede</br> superman</br><b>supersohn</b></br>Latin wordsnko
14131413exceptionable / exceptionalexceptionable: something to find fault with</br>exceptional: something remarkable or particularly unusualadj.It was an <b>exceptional</b> event as the harsh food critic found nothing <b>exceptionable</b> with the meal Easily confused wordsSMB
14141414exudedischarge; release liquid in drops or small quantities verbLatin : ex öut"+ sudāre "to sweat."=> to sweat out</br>Syn : exudate, ooze, ooze out, transude1a. Confidence <b>exuded</b> out of his every single of John F. Kennedy's pores, while Jackie Kennedy exuded class.</br>1b. The skunk <b>exuded</b> a foul smell1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14151415exultrejoice; feel extreme happiness verbMy mother <b>exulted</b> when she got the last 2 tickets to the Robbie Williams concert.1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14161416exultantinclined to exult; characterized by, or expressing, exultation; rejoicing triumphantly adj.Latin "to leap up," ex-, silire,"up or out" => "to leap up"The kids who win the Little League championship game will be <b>exultant.</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
14171417unioneLatin Prefixuniversal</br> Latin wordsnko
14181418viceinstead ofLatin Prefixvice-governor</br> vice-roy</br> vice-captain</br> Latin wordsnko
14191419portendingto give an omen or anticipatory sign ofverbLatin : por- "forward" + "tendere" "to stretch"=>"stretching forward to predict." or foretell."1a. The distant thunder <b>portended</b> a storm. </b>1b. If you're superstitious, a black cat <b>portends</b> troubleAMBExamword
14201420acious</br>cioushaving the quality ofLatin Suffixspacious</br> Latin wordsnko
14211421acolyte1. A person who helps with religious services</br>2. a fan or follower of the famousnoun Greek akolouthos : "follower"</br>Sny1 : altar boy</br> Syn2 : fan1. When I was a boy, I was an acolyte in the Church. </br>Likewise, her relationship with Warhol was not that of <b>acolyte</b> but of peer.AMBMashima
14221424ate</br> ent</br> ant</br> anteone whoLatin Suffixsycophant</br>Latin wordsnko
14231430suppositionthe cognitive process of conjecturingnounSame word root as supposeNot having any evidence, the teachers <b>supposition</b> that Amy had cheated on the exam could not be proven. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14241432hoodstate ofLatin Suffixchildhood, neighbourhood, brotherhood, Latin wordsnko
14251436iouscharacterized byLatin Suffixgracious, obvious, Latin wordsnko
14261441monystate ofLatin Suffixstate of matrimony (being married)Latin wordsnko
14271444ous</br> osefull ofLatin Suffixlachrymose(full of tears)</br> Latin wordsnko
14281445shipstate of</br> skillLatin SuffixworkmanshipLatin wordsnko
14291446somecharacteristic ofLatin SuffixwholesomeLatin wordsnko
14301447tudestate ofLatin Suffixcertitude</br> Latin wordsnko
14311448wardin the direction ofLatin Suffixforward</br> backward</br> Latin wordsnko
14321450effect </br> affect </br>exceptions 1However, effect can be a verb as an exception. In these cases it is nearly always used together with a noun like "change" or "solution." To effect change/ to effect for a solution. noun, verbThe protesters wanted to effect change in the corrupt government and fight for a solution=bring about change BUT</br>, The protesters wanted to affect change=modify the intended changeEasily confused wordsMSU
14331451effect </br> affect </br> exceptions 2however, affect can be used as a noun, as an exception - Affect as a noun means feeling, emotion, or specific emotional response. noun, verbThe patient had a flat affect throughout the therapy session. (he patient was in kind of a blah mood) Easily confused wordsMSU
14341452missivea written note; note or instruction sent by superior authoritynounSyn : command, noteAs soon as the general <u>received the <b>missive</b> from his commander-in-chief</u>, he launched an airstrike against the enemy.Common GREPrepscholar
14351453complaisant</br>complacent complaisant ="pleasing, obliging, gracious"</br>complacent = pleased with oneself, one's conditions, self-satisfied, often overly soadj.complacent is often used to imply that one is TOO self-satisfied with oneself or with what one achieved - in the sense of "resting on one's laurels"Although Chuck wanted an 'A' in the class, he was complacent with a 'B'</br>Because John is too complaisant in his willingness to please others, people often take advantage of himHomophonemerriam-webster
14361454akanthathornGreek/Latin roota sub of the Greek</br> PIE root "ac": be sharp</br> rise (out) to a point</br> pierce. acacia(african thorn bush)</br> acanthus (mediterreanian thorn tree)Root wordsSMB
14371455qualify1. be selectable for a position/job<br>2. Place a condition on a statement, limit the scope of a statementverbQualify is <u>one of the 5 most common mistakes</u> made in the GRE! <br> The GRE primarily has examples of the 2nd definition, ie. To place a condition on a statement.2a. I love living in San Francisco; however, <b>the summers are very cold </b></br>The latter, bold part <b></u>qualifies</b> or limits</u>, my love for San Francisco. </br>You can also qualify a negative statement :</br>2b. I really dislike living in SF, because I cant even wear a T-shirt in summer, <b>however the restaurants are great </b>Common GREMSU
14381456abstemiousmarked by temperance in indulgence. Abstinent, abstentiousadj.Latin: abs-= "away." + temetum, "intoxicating drink" => someone who keeps alcohol (or other temptations) at arm's length.Because I was <b><u>abstemious</b> with alcohol</u> when I was younger, I am still quite healthy in my later years. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14391457aggregatea sum total of many heterogeneous things taken togetheradj., verbLatin: ad "to" + gregare "to collect into a flock, gather"Schools often use test scores to <b><u>aggregate</b> students into classes</u> based on intelligence. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14401458approbationofficial acceptance or agreementnounProbation hat den gleichen Sinn wie "Probezeit". Approbation bedeutet, dass man diese bestanden hat.Filled with <b>approbation</b>, the audience gave a <u>standing ovation</u>. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14411459assiduousmarked by care and persistent effortadj.Latin: ad "to" + sedere "to sit=>constantly working at it His <b>assiduous</b> attempts to improve his GRE vocab got him a top verbal score Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14421460beneficentdoing or producing goodadj.bene=goodMy <b><u>beneficent neighbor</b> gives out meals to the poor</u> every Sunday. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14431461boorishill-mannered and coarse in behavior or appearanceadj.old English for herdsman (Bauer..)The hometown fans acted in such a <b>boorish</b> way toward the visiting team that they had to forfeit the game. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14441462burnishpolish and make shinyverbyou could burnish a car, a suit of armor, or a copper kettle. Reputations are among the most common non-physical things to be burnished.Richard is forever attempting to <u><b>burnish</b> his reputation</u> so that he can advance his position within our company. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14451463castigationharsh verbal reprimandnounThe teachers <u>verbal <b>castigation</b> of the student was harsh</u> but needed since he refused to do any work. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14461464conciliatorymaking or willing to make concessionsadj.Latin: conciliatus "to bring together, win over" same root as "council"+ ory "relating to or doing. Context often involves compromiseEven though Henry hated fruit cake, <u>he still accepted the <b>conciliatory</b> gift from his neighbor</u>. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14471465contentionthe act of competing as for profit or a prizenoun"a violent effort to obtain something"Does anyone know the <u>bone of <b>contention</b></u> that started the fight between Jim and Bob? Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14481466conundruma difficult problemnoununclear originThe <b><u>conundrum</b> is that I am stranded in the middle of nowhere</u> without my cell phone. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14491467dauntcause to lose courageadj.Daunt rhymes with haunt, another word which means to frighten(but daunt is less creepy)David faced the <u><b>daunting</b> task</u> of fighting Goliath Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14501468deterrentsomething immaterial that interferes with action or progressnounLatin: de "away" + terrere "frighten, fill with fear"North Korea is proud of its <u>nuclear <b>deterrent</u></b> arsenal Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14511469dichotomya classification into two opposed parts or subclassesnounGreek dikhotomia "a cutting in half,The statement: "All cars are either small and efficient or large and polluting" is a <u>false <b>dichotomy</b></u> because there are some cars that don't fit into either category. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14521470digressiona message that departs from the main subjectnounLatin: dis- "apart, aside" (see dis-) + gradi "to step, go"=>act of deviating from the main subject matter in speaking or writingThe <u>professor's <b>digression</b> from the lesson's theme</u> was another subtle attempt to indoctrinate the class with his radicalism Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14531471disjointedtaken apart at the points of connectionadj.His <u><b>disjointed</b> argument</u> didn't make much sense Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14541472dismissstop associating with, to let go, brush aside, declare void, end an encounterverb<u>She <b>dismissed</b> his advances</u> Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14551473dissolutionseparation into component partsnounsame root as dissolveShe started divorce proceedings to achieve the <u><b>dissolution</b> of their marriage</u> Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14561474distendcause to expand as if by internal pressureverbLatin dis-=“apart,” + tendere= “to stretch=><u>The pregrant woman's belly began to <b>distend </b></u>as the baby grew.  Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14571475dormantinactive but capable of becoming activeadj.dormir=to sleepThe <u><b>dormant</b> volcano errupted</u> after many years of inactivity. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14581476effronteryaudacious behavior that you have no right tonounThe couple strolled into the crowded restaurant, demanded the best table and threatened the staff but were soon <u>rejected by the maitre d' for their <b>effrontery.</b></u> Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14591477embellishmake more attractive, as by adding ornament or colorverbem=to make, bel=beauty<u>Mom <b>embellished</b> the cake</u> with a cherry on the top Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14601478equanimitysteadiness of mind under stressnounLatin: equi= "even, level" + animus "mind, spirit"=>evenness in temperThe aplollo 13 astronaut <u>dealt with the explosion on board with <b>equanimity</b></u> and first took stock of the situation. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14611479euphemisman inoffensive expression substituted for an offensive onenounGreek euphemismos, meaning "good speech""holiday in Dachau" was a <b>euphenism</b> of the nazis to hide the terror they were planning in the concentration camps Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14621480exigency1. something that is demanded in a giving situation. </br>2. a sudden unforeseen crisis (usually involving danger) that requires immediate actionnounFrench: exiger=demand, Latin: exigentia "urgency" </br>Syn: urgent demand1. Bills allergy medication is an<b> exigency</b> he always carries around in case of an attack.</br>2. These suggestions <u>address the <b>exigencies</b></u> of the moment. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14631481fatuousdevoid of intelligenceadj.Syn: asinine, inane, mindless, vacuous, foolishBuying a car without negotiating down the price is <u><b>a fatuous</b> move</u>. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14641482fawningattempting to win favor by flatterynounOld English: verwandt mit "feiern"The beauty contestants are always <b>fawning</b> over the male judges. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14651483felicitousexhibiting an agreeably appropriate manner or style, appropriateadj.From felix (genitive felicis) "happy, fortunate, fruitful, fertile"Jenna could think of nothing more <b>felicitous</b> than spending the entire weekend with her family. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14661484fervorfeelings of great warmth and intensitynounHe had great fervor for FC Basel Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14671485frugalityprudence in avoiding wastenounHis frugality was so great that he would capture all still insufficiently warm water to water the plants in the apartment Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14681486futileproducing no result or effectadj. Latin futilis= "leaky." the image of a leaky vessel is a good illustration of the adjective. Pouring water into a leaky bucket is futile.Hopefully all the time you're spending studying vocabulary won't turn out to be futile Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14691487iconoclasticcharacterized by attack on established beliefsadj.Greek eikōn, or "image" coupled with -klastēs, "one who breaks"=> one who breaks iconsIn the 1960's, <b><u>iconclastic</b> altneratives</u> to the standard democrate and republican parties were set up in California. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14701488idolatrythe worship of objects or images as godsnounBoth <u>abhorred <b>idolatry</b></u> and intercession, and both relied on their books, the Bible and the Quran, for direct contact with God Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14711489impassivehaving or revealing little emotion or sensibilityadj. Impassive is tricky, as it sounds it should be the opposite of passive. It's not, though. The fact is you can be passive and impassive at the same time. When a passive person gets passed over for a promotion at work, their face might remain impassive upon hearing the news.He has become inured to the difficulty of the English language Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14721490impedebe a hindrance or obstacle toverbLatin impedire which literally means "to hold the feet" formed from the prefix in-, ("in") plus pes ("foot").Los Alamos housing shortage <b>impedes </b>business growth because there are too few people living in town to attract new retailers, the proposal said. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14731491impermeablepreventing especially liquids to pass or diffuse throughadj.im-, = “not,” + permeable,= “allowing to pass through,” impermeable Syn of impervious or impenetrable. However, impermeable is especially associated with liquids, often used in a scientific, technical context.The <u><b>impermeable</b> rain coat</u> kept water from ruining the womans cashmere sweater. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14741492imperviousnot admitting of passage or capable of being affectedadj.in- "not, opposite of" + pervius "letting things through, that can be passed through"(per=through, via=path)=>not letting things pass through.The emotional person was <b>impervious</b> to argument</br>The impervious rain coat kept water from ruining the womans cashmere sweater Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14751493inadvertentlywithout knowledge or intentionadv.adv of inadvertentWe <b>indaver<u>tent</u>ly</b> ripped the <u>tent</u> (spelling donkey's bridge) Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14761494incongruitythe quality of disagreeing or being unsuitable and inappropriateadj. Latin: in="not" +con/m "with, together" + gruere"fall, rush" =>that which does not fall/fit together</br>Syn: incongruousnessThe <b>incongruity</b> between an American power cord and a Swedish power outlet means you cant charge your devices. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14771495inconsequentiallacking worth or importanceadj. It was decided that <u>Pluto was too <b>inconsequential</b> to be a planet</u>. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14781496incorporatemake into a whole or make part of a wholeverbLatin: in- "into, in, on, upon" + verb of corpus "body" => put into a body/wholeAccording to culinary guidelines, a chef should never <b>incorporate</b> cheese into a fish dish. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14791497indeterminatenot fixed or known in advanceadj. Latin : in- "not" + determinare "to enclose, bound, set limits to" => not to be defined, limited</br>Syn: undetermined, uncertain, inconclusive, indeterminable, undeterminable“the influence of environment is <b>indeterminate</b></br>The deceased hobo was of <b><u>indeterminate</b> age</u> Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14801498indigencea state of extreme poverty or destitutionnoun</br>Syn: need, pauperisation, pauperism, pauperization, penury, beggary, mendicancy, mendicity, impoverishment, poorness, povertyShe even forbade me to write about anything in my college essay that hinted at our immigrant indigence. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14811499insinuate1. suggest in an indirect or covert way; give to understand</br>2. introduce or insert (oneself) in a subtle mannerverb Latin: in: in + sinuare "to wind, bend, curve"=> "wind one's way into."</br> Syn: 1. adumbrate, intimate, hint, suggest </br>2. bring in, introduce1. I <b>insinuated</b> that I did not like his wife. </br>2. He <b>insinuated</b> himself into the conversation of the people at the nearby table Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14821500insularitythe state of being isolated or detachednounLatin: insula, for "island."</br> Deutsch= Insel </br>Syn: detachment, insularism, insulationTheir <b>insularity</b> led to the belief that they were the best in all things. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14831501intransigencestubborn refusal to compromise or changenounin-: "not" + trans=movement =>is not moving</br>Syn: bullheadedness, obstinacy, obstinance, pigheadedness, self-will, stubbornnessI cant understand Rachels <b>intransigence</b>, considering that we have undeniable proof that her idea is incorrect.  Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14841502inundatefill or cover completely, usually with water, but increasingly with information, work etc. verb Latin: inundare "to overflow, run over, to flood" </br> Syn: deluge, submerge, fill, fill upThe Black writer was <b>inundated</b> with calls from movie industry executives looking for Black editors to hire Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14851503inuredmade tough by habitual exposureadj.contracted from phrase: (put) in ure = put in use, now meaning "toughen or harden by experience </br> Syn: enured, hardened, tough, toughenedPeople in northern regions are <b>inured</b> to the cold weather, and some will even jump into freezing water on occasion.</br>a peasant, dark, lean-faced, wind- inured Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14861504invectiveabusive language used to express blame or censureadj. from in- "against" + vehere "to carry" => =to carry words against = "abusive speech</br> Syn: vitriol, vituperationWhen my ex-husband tried to start a fight with me by using an <b>invective</b>, I simply walked away from him. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14871505itineraryan established line of travel or accessnounLatin itinerarium "account of a journey, description of a route of travel, road-book"The teacher had to submit an <b>itinerary</b> for her field trip to Disneyworld listing every stop they would make at each hour of the day Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14881506lassitudea feeling of lack of interest or energynounLatin: lassus "faint, tired, weary"Whereas <u>Latitude</u> is the distance from the equator, <b>lassitude</b> is the weariness you'd experience after attempting to run a marathon around the equator Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14891507leveean embankment built to prevent a river from overflowingnoun New Orleans French levée "a raising, a lifting; an embankment,<b>Levees</b> protect land that is normally dry but that may be flooded occasionally, while <u>Dikes</u> protect land that would naturally be underwater most of the time. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14901508levitya manner lacking seriousnessnounLevity = "lightness,Joking that his dead grandmother "never looked better" injected some <b>levity</b> into her funeral, but his relatives found his joke inappropriate to the occasion. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14911510malingerersomeone shirking duty by feigning illness or incapacitynounFrench: Malinger: to pretend to be sick</br> Syn: shammer, skulker, shirker, slackerPike, the dog, was a clever <b>malingerer</b> and thief,pretending to be hurt to gain sympathy and food Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14921511mendaciousgiven to lyingadj. French/Latin: given to tell "a lie, untruth, falsehood, fiction </br>Syn:intentionally untrue, untruthfulIts an unguarded anthology her ongoing battles against depression, <u><b>mendacious</b> lovers</u> and toxic memories. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14931512negate1. make ineffective by counterbalancing the effect of</br>2. deny the truth of</br>3. prove negative 4. be in contradiction withverbbackforming of negation :"deny, make negative or null" </br>Syn: neutralize, nullify, contradict, belie1. Sometimes getting a guard dog can negate the need for a security system.</br>3. The WHOs statement would seem to negate the validity of any such document. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
14941513officiousintrusive in a meddling or offensive manner, being annoyingly eager to do more than is required.adj. Has nothing to do with official or office!!!. People who are officious are busybodies. They want to make their opinions known and followed, despite not having any kind of real power.The <b>officious</b> lunch lady made everyone's food choices her business, and made nasty comments when students chose cookies over carrots Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14951514opprobriuma state of extreme dishonoradj. Syn: obloquy, infamyThe celebrity chef earned <b>opprobrium</b> when she made a racial slur in front of the media. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14961515pateliver or meat or fowl finely minced or ground and variously seasonednounFrench: from same word root as "paste", with the "s"dissapearing again.He had no ethical problem eat goose liver <b>pate</b> Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14971516pathological1. of or relating to the practice of pathology </br>2. caused by or evidencing a mentally disturbed conditionadj. Greek: pathologikos=pertaining to disease1. the lab. Technician worked in a <b><u>pathological</b> laboratory</u> </br>2. The thief was a <b>pathological</b> liar. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
14981517penurya state of extreme poverty or destitution</br>Syn: indigence, need, pauperisation, pauperism, pauperizationnoun Latin: penuria= scarcityMy uncle <u>wasted his fortune and died in <b>penury</b></u>. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
14991518perenniallasting an indefinitely long timeadj. Latin per-, "through" + annus, or "year.</br>Syn: long, repeated, recurrent, continualAt our university digs, there was a <u><b>perennial</b> argument</u> as to who cleaned the bathroom last . Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15001519permeableallowing fluids or gases to pass or diffuse throughadj. Latin: per "through" + meare "to pass"=>pass through</br>The <b>permeable</b> cloth allowed nearly all the water to flow through. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15011520pietyrighteousness by virtue of being religiously devoutnounfrom French, related to English word: pityaerophyte Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15021521plasticitythe property of being physically malleableadj. The <b>plasticity</b> of the wax and clay made the 2 media attractive for the artist to use. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15031523preamblea preliminary introduction, as to a statute or constitutionnounLatin praeambulus which means "walking before." (a speech, or a document)The Constitution declares in its <b>preamble</b>that one of its primary purposes was to establish Justice. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
15041524problematic1. posing a problem, tough, hard to solve</br>2. uncertain </br>3. open to question or debate adj. Syn:baffling, elusive, knotty, problematical, tough, difficult, hard1. Finding enough volunteers to work at the shelter can be <b>problematic</b> since its not a paying job. </br>2. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15051525profound1. situated at or extending to great depth</br>2. showing intellectual penetration or emotional depthadj. Profundus literally means "deep" in Latin</br>syn 1:deep </br>Syn2:intense, deep, thoughtful, insightful1. The strange creature came from <u>the <b>profound depths</b> of the sea</u>.</br>Rock songs about drugs that <b>try to sound profound</b> are usually dumb Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15061526prohibitivetending to discourage, especially of pricesadj. The Rolex watch was <u><b>prohibitively</b></u> Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15071527propensitya natural inclinationadj. Old English: obsolete adjective propense "inclined, prone"</br>Syn: leaning, proclivityMy sister <u>has a <b>propensity</b> to rub her hands togeither</U> when she gets excited about something Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15081529proscribecommand againstverbProscribe sounds similar to prescribe, but careful !!: these words are essentially opposite in meaning. proscribe = forbid, prescribe= doctor's ordrers/ recommends a medicine Most states have laws that <u><b>proscribe</b> texting</u> while driving. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15091530qualified1. meeting the proper standards and requirements for a task</br>2. limiting conditions that modify a statement or make it no longer validadj. 1. As the student saw himself <u><b>qualified</b> for the job</u>, he sent in his resumé</br>2. Newton's laws are still generally valid and applicable, <b><u>qualified</b> only by extreme conditions</u>, eg.at speeds close to light Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15101531quiescentbeing quiet or still or inactiveadj.Latin origin quiescens means rest, quiet1. While the bees are <b>quiescent</b> early in the morning and in the evening, they are overactive in the middle of the day</br>2. the <b>quiescent</b> tumour gave the patient no problems. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15111532rarefied1. of high moral or intellectual value</br>of high moral or intellectual value; elevated in nature or style </br>2 having low densityadj. Syn1: levated, exalted, grand, high-flown, high-minded, idealistic, lofty, noble-minded, rarified, sublime1. The <u><b>rarefied</b> book</u> was written in an ancient language that could only be read by a few linguists and historians</br>2. The old lady became lightheaded from the <u><b>rarefied</b> mountain air</u> Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15121533recluseone who lives in solitudenounGreek erēmos, = “solitary.” </br>Syn: hermit, solitary, solitudinarian, troglodyteSt. John the Baptist, a preacher and <b>hermit</b> and forerunner of Jesus (whom he baptized)w, as beheaded by Herod Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
15131534refractorystubbornly resistant to authority or controladj. Latin meaning "breaking up, obstinate", also "not responsive to something.Most <u>teenagers go through a <b>refractory</b> phase</u> where they dont want to listen to authority figures. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
15141535relegateassign to a lower positionverbLatin: re- "back" + legare "send with a commission" =>send to a "place in a position of inferiority<u>GC was <b>relegated</b> to the 2nd division</u> after it came last in the Super League Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15151536reprobatea person without moral scruplesnounThe serial killer was a <b>reprobate</b> who did not care about anyone Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15161537resolutiona decision to do something or to behave in a certain mannernounThe board passed a resolution Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15171539sagea mentor in spiritual and philosophical topicsnounOld French sage "wise, knowledgeable, learned; shrewd, skillful"Although a bit of an eccentric, he was deeply religious and known for his simple wisdom and <u><b>sage</b> advice</u> Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15181540saturateinfuse or fill completelyverbThe heavy rainstorm <u><b>saturated</b> the ground</u>, leaving puddles on the lawn because no more water can be absorbed. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15191541savora particular taste or smell, especially an appealing onenounOld French savor "flavor, taste; sauce, seasoning; delight, pleasure," itself from Latin : saporSince its my last cookie, I will eat it slowly and <u><b>savor</b> the taste</u>. Hi Freq. GRE MediumBarron
15201542secrete1. generate and separate from cells or bodily fluids </br>2. place out of sight; keep secretverb1. The lemon <u><b>secreted</b> its juice</u> as it was squeezed</br>2. The money was <b>secreted</b> from his children Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15211544skepticsomeone who habitually doubts accepted beliefsnoun"member of an ancient Greek school that doubted the possibility of real knowledge"</br>Syn: sceptic,dDoubting ThomasI am always a <b>skeptic</b> when it comes to buying too good to be true products Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15221547stint1. n. a short period of time </br>2. supply sparingly and with restricted quantitiesnoun, verbword root related to stutter, stunt (as in growth)1. He served a <u>short <b>stint</b></u> as a waiter. </br>2. They were <u>not <b>stinting</b> in their praise</u> of their son. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15231548striatemarked with stripes, stria or striationsadj. sounds like stripes, which has the same word root1. The bodybuilder's lean striated muscles had a striped appearance.</br>The striated rock surface showed evidence glacier movements thousand of years earlier. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15241549subsidewear off or die downverbThe sound of the jet engines subsided as the plane flew further away. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15251550supersedetake the place or move into the position ofverbPres. Oboma <b>preceded</b> Pres. Trump, who superseded President Oboma Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15261551excisecut away; cut out; remove by or as if by cutting verbex "out" (see ex-) + cis=cut=> cut outIt will take several hours for <u>the surgeon to <b>excise</b> the massive</u> 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
15271552tangentialof superficial relevance if anyadj. Syn: digressive, irrelevantI hardly ever learn anything in my history class because my teacher always <u>rambles off on a <b>tangential </b>topic</u> that has nothing to do with history. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15281553tiradea speech of violent denunciationnounFrench tirade "a volley, a shot; a pull; a long speech or passage; a drawing out" (16c.), from tirer "draw out, endure, suffer,When the player got kicked out of the game, he started a tirade which lasted until security escorted him off the court. Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15291554truculencestubborn and defiant aggressiveness, a natural disposition to be hostileadj. Syn:aggressiveness, belligerence, pugnacityThe aggressive mans truculence caused him to be arrested and jailed for disorderly conduct Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15301555unwarrantedincapable of being justified or explainedadj. Even though it is <u>an <b>unwarranted</b> fea</u>r, I am always afraid of fish touching me while I swim in the water Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15311556veracioushabitually speaking the truthadj. Latin: from verus "true"</br>Careful: v<u>o</u>racious <> v<u>e</u>racious !! A voracious appetite makes you want to eat a whole cake. Veracious (with an "e") means truthful, as in a veracious first president who cannot tell a lie“Honest” Abraham Lincoln was known as a <b>veracious</b> president who stood for truth Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15321557vituperativemarked by harshly abusive criticismadj. Vituperative criticism is harsh, scathing, even abusive. If a review or assessment is vituperative, it doesn't say "try harder next time." Instead it gives the sense of "go away and never come back."The ungodly, God-like man was as a figure who was <b><u>vituperative</b> and hysterically unforgiving</u>, particularly toward his eleven children Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15331558warymarked by keen caution and watchful prudenceadj. same word root as "war"in English and "Gewahr" in DeutschOne of the most important lessons that parents must teach young children is to always <u>be <b>wary</b> of strangers</u>. Hi Freq. GRE EasyBarron
15341559zealota fervent and even militant proponent of somethingnounThe original zealots were a group of first-century Jews who were absolutely determined to overthrow Roman rule in PalestineDuring the middle of the night, a pro-life <b>zealot</b> bombed the abortion clinic and killed two nurses who were working late.   Hi Freq. GRE HardBarron
15351560excisecut away; cut out; remove by or as if by cutting verbex "out" (see ex-) + cis=cut=> cut outIt will take several hours for <u>the surgeon to <b>excise</b> the massive</u> 1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
15361661excise a tax. nouncomes from a similarly sounding old Dutch word for tax, not linked to the "excise" verb word, which is Latin origin!when you take more than a litre of alcohol into the country, you will need to pay 20% <b><u>excise</u> duty</b>AMBPrepscholar
15371662acquiesceassent; agree without protesting verb Latin: acquiescere, meaning “to rest.” If you “rest” or become passive in the face of something to which you object, you are giving tacit agreement.While I did not want to go to the show with Laura, <u>her begging eventually caused me to <b>acquiesce</u></b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
15381663connoteto imply something in addition to what is apparentverbLatin: com "with, together" + notare "to mark, note, make a note"=>to signify in addition to the main meaningAt work, we <b>connote</b> the employee of the month award with being the best worker on the team.AMBGRE Test Exam 1
15391664inveiglepersuade someone through flatteryverb Middle French word aveugler, meaning “delude, make blind,”She <b>inveigled</b> him to drive her all the way across the country by telling him he was not only the best looking man in town, but also the best driver of all time. AMBGRE Test Exam 1
15401665injudiciouslacking or showing lack of judgment or discretion; unwiseadj.Latin in-"not"+ iudicium "judgment"=> lacking judgement. </br>Antonym: judiciousHe <u>regretted his <b>injudicious</b> decision</u> to spend his last 5 dollars on an expensive cup of coffeeAMBGRE Test Exam 1
15411666judiciousexhibiting good judgment or sound thinking; prudent adj.Latin iiudicium "judgment"=> lacking judgement. </br>Antonym :injudiciousThe man had become <u>wealthy by making <b>judicious</b> use of his money</u>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
15421667pernicuousharmful and <u>subtle</u>, often taking yearsadj.Latin: per "completely" + necis "violent death, murder"perniciosus, "destructive"=>total destructionThe leftist claimed that even during a pandemic, racism is as <b>pernicious</b> as ever.AMBGRE Test Exam 1
15431668debasereduce in quality or value; lower in esteem; degrade verbLatin: de- "down" + base (adj.) "low"The lack of fiscal discipline led to the <u>currency being <b>debased</u>.</b>1000 Difficult GRE wordsExamword
15441669basenessunworthiness by virtue of lacking higher valuesadj.from base (adj.) + -ness.The pauper looked at the touristist skeptically, thinking that they gloried in his squalor as proof of his baseness.AMBGRE Test Exam 1
15451670connote/denoteConnote is like giving a hint, but to denote is to refer to something outright.verbFor her, the word "family" <b>connotes</b> love and comfort while it <b>denotes</b> a group containing a father, mother and siblingsAMBGRE Test Exam 1
15461671fervent/fervidFervent is a synonym of fervid. adj.Fervent is used much more frequently than fervid. Some, but not all, say that fervid means 'very fervent"He was a <u><b>fervent</b> supporter</u> of FC BaselAMBGRE Test Exam 1
15471672poise1. n. If you have poise, you are cool under stress. People with poise can handle pressure without showing it</br>2. brace yourself (ie. Get ready) or be prepared for something difficult. noun, verbFrench: poids=weight, quality of being heavy. The sense of "steadiness, composure" from notion of being equally weighted on either side, which then led to the passive sense of "being in equilibrium""being in suspense" and then "getting ready for"1. He answered the presecutor's tough questions with great <b>poise </b></br>2a. The bird was <b>poised</b> in mid-air, ready to fall on its prey. </br>2b.That number seems <b><u>poised</b> to rise</u> dramatically this year.</br>2c. After being asked to sit down, we was <u><b>poised</b> to hear bad news</u>. VocabPrepscholar
15481673aplombAplomb is the ultimate test for cool: grace under pressure.adj. French: "perpendicularity"a lead(Pb) weight = "poised upright, balanced."Because the negotiator <u>handled the hostage situation with <b>aplomb</u></b>, the kidnapper released everyone without harm.VocabPrepscholar
15491674tenacitythe quality of being determined to do or achieve somethingadj.</br>Syn : doggedness, perseverance, persistence, persistency, pertinacity, tenaciousness<u>Nadals <b>tenacity</b> and desire to win at all costs</u> were exhibited during the final set of the tennis matchVocabPrepscholar
15501675windfallA windfall is a crazy bit of unexpected good fortune., an unanticipated benefit, usually monetary in naturenounfrom wind (n.1. + fall (n.1. . Originally literal, in reference to wood or fruit blown down by the wind, and thus free to </br>Syn : bonanza, boom, bunce, godsend, gold rush, gravy, manna from heavenWith her lottery <b>windfall</b>, Gail eliminated all her financial debt.VocabPrepscholar