Illicit

• Definition: Forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
• Example: The police discovered an illicit drug operation in the abandoned warehouse.

Retrospect

• Definition: A review or contemplation of past events.
• Example: In retrospect, she realized that her decision was the best one.

Chieftain

• Definition: The leader of a people or clan.
• Example: The chieftain led his tribe with wisdom and strength.

Exodus

• Definition: A mass departure of people.
• Example: The exodus of refugees from the war-torn country was heartbreaking.

Doggerel

• Definition: Comic verse composed in irregular rhythm.
• Example: The poem was criticized as doggerel, lacking the refinement of true poetry.

Matador

• Definition: A bullfighter who has the principal role and kills the bull.
• Example: The matador’s skill and bravery were evident as he faced the charging bull.

Penthouse

• Definition: An apartment on the top floor of a building.
• Example: The penthouse offered stunning views of the city skyline.

Postdiluvian

• Definition: Occurring after the flood described in the Bible.
• Example: The postdiluvian period was marked by significant changes in the landscape.

Stark

• Definition: Severe or bare in appearance or outline.
• Example: The stark reality of the situation began to dawn on them.

Prevalent

• Definition: Widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.
• Example: The flu is prevalent during the winter months.

Bulwark

• Definition: A defensive wall.
• Example: The castle’s bulwark protected it from invaders.

Acrylic

• Definition: A synthetic resin used in paint and other products.
• Example: She preferred acrylic paints for their vibrant colors and quick drying time.

Reiterate

• Definition: To say something again or a number of times.
• Example: He reiterated his point to ensure everyone understood.

Euphemistic

• Definition: Using or of the nature of a euphemism.
• Example: “Passed away” is a euphemistic term for “died.”

Pudgy

• Definition: Slightly fat.
• Example: The pudgy cat lounged lazily in the sun.

Interrogation

• Definition: The action of questioning someone closely, aggressively, or formally.
• Example: The suspect was taken in for interrogation by the police.

Screed

• Definition: A long speech or piece of writing, typically one regarded as tedious.
• Example: He went on a screed about the government’s failings.

Inclined

• Definition: Feel willing or favorably disposed toward an action, belief, or attitude.
• Example: She was inclined to accept the job offer.

Leeway

• Definition: The amount of freedom to move or act that is available.
• Example: The new schedule allows for some leeway in terms of deadlines.

Eloquent

• Definition: Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
• Example: Her eloquent speech moved the audience to tears.

Eloquently

• Definition: In a fluent or persuasive manner.
• Example: He spoke eloquently about the need for change.

Egret

• Definition: A type of heron with white plumage.
• Example: The egret stood gracefully in the shallow water.

Tarmac

• Definition: A material used for surfacing roads or other outdoor areas, consisting of crushed rock mixed with tar.
• Example: The plane taxied down the tarmac before taking off.

Undercarriage

• Definition: The supporting framework underneath a vehicle, typically the landing gear of an aircraft.
• Example: The plane’s undercarriage retracted after takeoff.

Embedded

• Definition: Fixed firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass.
• Example: The journalist was embedded with the troops during the conflict.

Phony

• Definition: Not genuine; fraudulent.
• Example: He was exposed as a phony after the truth came out.

Meddle

• Definition: Interfere in something that is not one’s concern.
• Example: He was warned not to meddle in other people’s affairs.

Discreetly

• Definition: In a careful and prudent manner, especially to keep something confidential or to avoid embarrassment.
• Example: She discreetly handed him the note.

Sycophant

• Definition: A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage.
• Example: The boss was surrounded by sycophants who flattered him constantly.

Jowl

• Definition: The lower part of a person’s or animal’s cheek, especially when it is fleshy or drooping.
• Example: The old dog had sagging jowls.

Stalagmite

• Definition: A column of mineral deposit rising from the floor of a cave.
• Example: The cave was filled with impressive stalagmites and stalactites.

Latch

• Definition: A metal bar with a catch and lever used for fastening a door or gate.
• Example: She lifted the latch and opened the gate.

Commissioning

• Definition: The act of granting authority to someone or something.
• Example: The commissioning ceremony for the new ship was held at the dock.

Scoff

• Definition: Speak to someone or about something in a scornfully derisive or mocking way.
• Example: He scoffed at the idea of working on a weekend.

Protrude

• Definition: Extend beyond or above a surface.
• Example: The branches protruded from the fence.

Carp

• Definition: To complain or find fault continually, typically about trivial matters.
• Example: She tends to carp about the smallest issues.

Itinerant

• Definition: Traveling from place to place.
• Example: The itinerant musician played on street corners across the country.

Sampan

• Definition: A small boat of a kind used in East Asia.
• Example: They navigated the narrow river in a sampan.

Palimpsest

• Definition: A manuscript or piece of writing material on which later writing has been superimposed on effaced earlier writing.
• Example: The ancient manuscript was a palimpsest, revealing layers of history.

Dwindle

• Definition: Diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength.
• Example: The crowd began to dwindle as the night wore on.

Nonconformity

• Definition: Failure or refusal to conform to a prevailing rule or practice.
• Example: Her nonconformity made her stand out in the conservative community.

Wistful

• Definition: Having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.
• Example: She had a wistful look in her eyes as she reminisced about the past.

Bust

• Definition: A sculpture of a person’s head, shoulders, and chest.
• Example: The bust of the famous composer was displayed in the museum.

Ambivalence

• Definition: The state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone.
• Example: Her ambivalence about the job offer made the decision difficult.

Forged

• Definition: Created something new or strong; made a fake copy of something.
• Example: They forged a strong friendship over the years. / The document was forged to look authentic.

Crucible

• Definition: A situation of severe trial leading to the creation of something new.
• Example: The battle was a crucible for the soldiers, testing their endurance and strength.

Tenant

• Definition: A person who occupies land or property rented from a landlord.
• Example: The tenant signed a lease for the apartment.

Samizdat

• Definition: The clandestine copying and distribution of literature banned by the state, especially in the former Soviet Union.
• Example: Dissidents used samizdat to spread their works.

Maelstrom

• Definition: A powerful whirlpool in the sea or a river; a situation or state of confused movement or violent turmoil.
• Example: The boat was caught in a maelstrom and struggled to stay afloat.

Allegory

• Definition: A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
• Example: The novel is an allegory of totalitarian regimes.

Schadenfreude

• Definition: Pleasure derived by someone from another person’s misfortune.
• Example: He felt a twinge of schadenfreude when his rival failed the exam.

Etymological

• Definition: Relating to the origin and historical development of words and their meanings.
• Example: An etymological dictionary provides insights into the history of words.

Rattled

• Definition: Make someone nervous, worried, or irritated.
• Example: The unexpected question rattled the speaker.

Stimulus

• Definition: A thing or event that evokes a specific functional reaction in an organ or tissue.
• Example: The stimulus for the experiment was a sudden loud noise.

Interrogate

• Definition: Ask questions of someone closely, aggressively, or formally.
• Example: The detective interrogated the suspect for hours.

Custody

• Definition: The protective care or guardianship of someone or something.
• Example: The mother was granted custody of the children after the divorce.

Consular

• Definition: Relating to an official appointed by a government to live in a foreign city and protect and promote the government’s citizens and interests there.
• Example: He sought consular assistance after losing his passport abroad.

Protocol

• Definition: The official procedure or system of rules governing affairs of state or diplomatic occasions.
• Example: The diplomats followed strict protocol during the negotiation.

Retaliation

• Definition: The action of returning a military attack; counterattack.
• Example: The country launched a retaliation against the invading forces.

Dwindling

• Definition: Diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength.
• Example: The town’s population has been dwindling for years.

Espionage

• Definition: The practice of spying or using spies to obtain information about the plans and activities of a foreign government or competing company.
• Example: He was arrested on charges of espionage.

Staunch

• Definition: Loyal and committed in attitude.
• Example: She was a staunch supporter of environmental conservation.

Retaliate

• Definition: Make an attack or assault in return for a similar attack.
• Example: The group vowed to retaliate against the perpetrators.

Vacate

• Definition: Leave a place that one previously occupied.
• Example: They had to vacate the apartment by the end of the month.

Unaccredited

• Definition: Not officially recognized or authorized.
• Example: The university was unaccredited, and its degrees were not recognized.

Silo

• Definition: A tower or pit on a farm used to store grain; a system or structure that is isolated from others.
• Example: The company operated in silos, with little communication between departments.

Subterfuge

• Definition: Deceit used in order to achieve one’s goal.
• Example: They used subterfuge to gain entry to the secure area.

Affiliation

• Definition: The state or process of affiliating or being affiliated.
• Example: The organization had no political affiliation.

Discreet

• Definition: Careful and circumspect in one’s speech or actions, especially to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
• Example: He was discreet about his plans to avoid any conflict.

Expropriation

• Definition: The action of the state in taking or modifying the property rights of an individual in the exercise of its sovereignty.
• Example: The government ordered the expropriation of the land for the new highway.

Intimidating

• Definition: Having a frightening, overawing, or threatening effect.
• Example: The large dog had an intimidating presence.

Erratic

• Definition: Not even or regular in pattern or movement; unpredictable.
• Example: His erratic driving caused concern among other motorists.

Masthead

• Definition: The title of a newspaper or magazine at the head of the front or editorial page.
• Example: The newspaper’s masthead listed the names of the editorial staff.

Dormant

• Definition: Having normal physical functions suspended or slowed down for a period of time; in or as if in a deep sleep.
• Example: The volcano has been dormant for centuries.

Adversity

• Definition: Difficulties; misfortune.
• Example: She showed great resilience in the face of adversity.

Scrappy

• Definition: Determined, argumentative, or pugnacious.
• Example: Despite his small size, he was known for his scrappy demeanor.

Drastically

• Definition: In a way that is likely to have a strong or far-reaching effect.
• Example: The weather changed drastically overnight.

Infuriated

• Definition: Make someone extremely angry and impatient.
• Example: The unfair decision infuriated the players.

Mediocre

• Definition: Of only moderate quality; not very good.
• Example: The film received mediocre reviews from critics.

Emboldened

• Definition: Give someone the courage or confidence to do something.
• Example: The success of the project emboldened her to take on more challenges.

Dissipate

• Definition: Disperse or scatter.
• Example: The morning fog began to dissipate as the sun rose.

Deliberately

• Definition: Consciously and intentionally; on purpose.
• Example: He deliberately avoided answering the question.

Sabotage

• Definition: Deliberately destroy, damage, or obstruct something, especially for political or military advantage.
• Example: The workers were accused of trying to sabotage the factory.

Laurel

• Definition: Any of a number of shrubs and other plants with dark green glossy leaves.
• Example: The athlete was crowned with a laurel wreath.

Laurels

• Definition: Honor or praise for an achievement.
• Example: She rested on her laurels after winning the award.

Unexploited

• Definition: Not used to the fullest extent.
• Example: The area has vast, unexploited natural resources.

Infatuated

• Definition: Possessed with an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something.
• Example: He was infatuated with his new coworker.

Endeavor

• Definition: Try hard to do or achieve something.
• Example: They endeavored to create a more sustainable lifestyle.

Aquiline

• Definition: Like an eagle; (of a person’s nose) hooked or curved like an eagle’s beak.
• Example: His aquiline nose gave him a distinguished appearance.

Evangelist

• Definition: A person who seeks to convert others to the Christian faith, especially by public preaching.
• Example: The evangelist traveled from town to town spreading the gospel.

Dynamite

• Definition: A high explosive consisting of nitroglycerine mixed with an absorbent material.
• Example: The workers used dynamite to blast through the rock.

Stoic

• Definition: Enduring pain and hardship without showing feelings or complaining.
• Example: She remained stoic despite the bad news.

Cumbersome

• Definition: Large or heavy and therefore difficult to carry or use.
• Example: The cumbersome package was hard to carry.

Accentuate

• Definition: Make more noticeable or prominent.
• Example: The bright color accentuated the room’s décor.

Portmanteau

• Definition: A large trunk or suitcase; a word blending the sounds and combining the meanings of two others (e.g., brunch).
• Example: “Smog” is a portmanteau of “smoke” and “fog.”

Lambast

• Definition: Criticize someone or something harshly.
• Example: The critics lambasted the new movie for its poor storyline.

Morose

• Definition: Sullen and ill-tempered.
• Example: He became morose after losing his job.

Coyly

• Definition: In an outwardly shy or modest way intended to be alluring.
• Example: She smiled coyly at her admirer.

Brahmin

• Definition: A member of the highest Hindu caste, that of the priesthood.
• Example: The Brahmin performed the religious ceremonies.

Mantra – Definition: A word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation. – Example: She repeated her mantra to calm her mind.

Peripheral – Definition: Relating to or situated on the edge or periphery of something. – Example: The town is located on the peripheral areas of the city.

Deflate – Definition: Let air or gas out of (a tire, balloon, or similar object). – Example: The balloon deflated quickly after being punctured.

Eclectic – Definition: Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources. – Example: Her eclectic taste in music included everything from classical to hip-hop.

Malign – Definition: Speak about someone in a spitefully critical manner. – Example: He was unfairly maligned by the press.

Befuddled – Definition: Unable to think clearly; confused or perplexed. – Example: The complex instructions left him befuddled.

Irreverence – Definition: A lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously. – Example: His irreverence towards authority was both admired and criticized.

Excretion – Definition: The process of eliminating or expelling waste matter. – Example: The body’s excretion of toxins is essential for maintaining health.

Excretory – Definition: Relating to the discharge of waste from the body. – Example: The excretory system includes the kidneys and bladder.

Scatological – Definition: Relating to or characterized by an interest in excrement and excretion. – Example: The comedian’s scatological humor was not to everyone’s taste.

Bidet – Definition: A low, basin-like bathroom fixture, typically a seat, that is used for washing the genital and anal areas. – Example: The hotel bathroom was equipped with a bidet.

Indoctrinate – Definition: Teach a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically. – Example: The regime sought to indoctrinate the youth with its ideology.

Corral – Definition: Gather together and confine (a group of people or things). – Example: The ranchers corralled the cattle into the pen.

Dominance – Definition: Power and influence over others. – Example: The company’s dominance in the market was undisputed.

Browbeat – Definition: Intimidate someone, typically into doing something, with stern or abusive words. – Example: The boss browbeat his employees into working overtime.

Cudgel – Definition: A short thick stick used as a weapon. – Example: He used a cudgel to defend himself from the attacker.

Berate – Definition: Scold or criticize someone angrily. – Example: She berated her son for his careless behavior.

Bide – Definition: Remain or stay somewhere. – Example: He decided to bide his time until the situation improved.

Dilapidated – Definition: In a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect. – Example: The dilapidated house was in need of extensive repairs.

Lodgings – Definition: A place in which someone lives or stays temporarily. – Example: They found affordable lodgings for their stay in the city.

Relegate – Definition: Consign or dismiss to an inferior rank or position. – Example: He was relegated to a less important role in the company.

Stance – Definition: The way in which someone stands, especially when deliberately adopted. – Example: His defensive stance indicated he was ready for a fight.

Surreptitious – Definition: Kept secret, especially because it would not be approved of. – Example: They carried out a surreptitious investigation into the matter.

Endorsement – Definition: An act of giving one’s public approval or support to someone or something. – Example: The celebrity’s endorsement boosted the product’s sales.

Hector – Definition: Talk to someone in a bullying way. – Example: The manager would often hector the staff over minor mistakes.

Lapse – Definition: A temporary failure of concentration, memory, or judgment. – Example: There was a lapse in security, allowing the intruders to enter.

Bannister – Definition: The structure formed by the uprights and handrail at the side of a staircase. – Example: She held onto the bannister as she climbed the stairs.

Mundane – Definition: Lacking interest or excitement; dull. – Example: The tasks were mundane but necessary.

Inculcate – Definition: Instill an attitude, idea, or habit by persistent instruction. – Example: Parents try to inculcate good values in their children.

Hodgepodge – Definition: A confused mixture. – Example: The meal was a hodgepodge of leftovers.

Moped – Definition: A low-powered motorcycle. – Example: He rode his moped to work every day.

Capitulate – Definition: Cease to resist an opponent or an unwelcome demand; surrender. – Example: The city capitulated after a prolonged siege.

Beleaguer – Definition: Besiege or surround with difficulties. – Example: The beleaguered town was running out of supplies.

Sporadic – Definition: Occurring at irregular intervals or only in a few places; scattered or isolated. – Example: There were sporadic outbreaks of the disease.

Concomitant – Definition: Naturally accompanying or associated. – Example: The rise in crime and the concomitant increase in public concern.

Tipsy – Definition: Slightly drunk. – Example: She felt a bit tipsy after two glasses of wine.

Mentality – Definition: The characteristic way of thinking of a person or group. – Example: The team had a winning mentality.

Camphor – Definition: A white, volatile, crystalline substance with an aromatic smell and bitter taste, occurring in certain essential oils. – Example: Camphor is used in many medicinal applications.

Parasol – Definition: A light umbrella used to give shade from the sun. – Example: She carried a parasol to protect herself from the sun.

Schizophrenic – Definition: Relating to or characterized by a breakdown in the relation between thought, emotion, and behavior, leading to faulty perception and withdrawal from reality. – Example: The character in the novel displayed schizophrenic tendencies.

Thug – Definition: A violent person, especially a criminal. – Example: The thug threatened the shop owner with a knife.

Prominent – Definition: Important; famous. – Example: She is a prominent figure in the fashion industry.

Denunciation – Definition: Public condemnation of someone or something. – Example: The denunciation of corruption was a central theme of his campaign.

Ophthalmologist – Definition: A specialist in the branch of medicine concerned with the study and treatment of disorders and diseases of the eye. – Example: She visited an ophthalmologist for her eye condition.

Crematorium – Definition: A place where a dead person’s body is cremated. – Example: The funeral was held at the crematorium.

Litany – Definition: A series of petitions for use in church services or processions, usually recited by the clergy and responded to in a recurring formula by the people; a tedious recital or repetitive series. – Example: He recited a litany of complaints.

Antsy – Definition: Impatient and unable to keep still. – Example: The children were antsy after sitting in the car for hours.

Petri Dish – Definition: A shallow, circular, transparent dish with a flat lid, used for the culture of microorganisms. – Example: The scientist placed the bacteria sample in a petri dish.

Ventilation – Definition: The provision of fresh air to a room, building, etc. – Example: Good ventilation is essential in a laboratory.

Dichotomy – Definition: A division or contrast between two things that are or are represented as being opposed or entirely different. – Example: The dichotomy between good and evil is a common theme in literature.

Gauntlet – Definition: Go through an intimidating or dangerous crowd, place, or experience to reach a goal. – Example: She had to run the gauntlet of photographers as she left the courthouse.

Calamity – Definition: An event causing great and often sudden damage or distress; a disaster. – Example: The earthquake was a calamity that left the city in ruins.

Encounter – Definition: Unexpectedly experience or be faced with something difficult or hostile. – Example: She had a close encounter with a bear while hiking.

Atrocity – Definition: An extremely wicked or cruel act, typically one involving physical violence or injury. – Example: The atrocity of the crime shocked the entire nation.

Emporium – Definition: A large retail store selling a wide variety of goods. – Example: The downtown emporium attracted shoppers from all over the city.

Reconnaissance – Definition: Military observation of a region to locate an enemy or ascertain strategic features. – Example: The team carried out a reconnaissance mission to gather intelligence.

Scenic – Definition: Providing or relating to views of impressive or beautiful natural scenery. – Example: The scenic route through the mountains was breathtaking.

Stiffly – Definition: In a manner that is not relaxed or friendly. – Example: He greeted her stiffly, avoiding eye contact.

Stiff – Definition: Not easily bent or changed in shape; rigid. – Example: The fabric was stiff after being starched.

Tutelage – Definition: Protection of or authority over someone or something; guardianship. – Example: He was placed under the tutelage of a wise mentor.