Vocabulary Review for Middle School (700 Words)

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions from the Middle School (700 Words) spelling bee contest.

squalor

A state of extreme filth and misery.

infighting

Conflict or struggle within a group, often leading to discord.

cathode

The electrode by which current enters an electrical device.

counteract

To act against something in order to reduce its force or neutralize it.

effervescent

Bubbling; high-spirited or lively.

quarrel

A heated argument or disagreement.

bloodthirsty

Eager to cause or witness violence and bloodshed.

charcuterie

A branch of cooking devoted to prepared meat products.

quintessential

Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.

emaciated

Abnormally thin or weak due to illness or lack of food.

plethora

An excessive amount or quantity of something.

dichotomy

A division or contrast between two things that are represented as being opposed or entirely different.

catastrophic

Involving or causing sudden great damage or suffering.

exhilaration

A feeling of excitement, happiness, or elation.

mellow

Relaxed and easy-going; soft and rich in flavor.

sagely

In a manner showing wisdom and good judgment.

concurrent

Existing, happening, or done at the same time.

obnoxious

Extremely unpleasant or offensive.

insidious

Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects.

melodramatic

Characteristic of being exaggerated or emotional in an overdramatic way.

elucidate

To make something clear or explain.

ambiguous

Open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.

resilience

The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.

ineffable

Too great or extreme to be expressed in words.

perseverance

Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties.

credibility

The quality of being trusted and believed in.

vicariously

Experienced in the imagination through feelings or actions of another person.

connoisseur

An expert judge in matters of taste.

venerated

Regarded with great respect and reverence.

exquisite

Extremely beautiful and delicate.

periphery

The outer limits or edge of an area or object.

quagmire

A complex, precarious, or difficult situation.

mischievous

Causing or showing a fondness for causing trouble in a playful way.

unabated

Without any reduction in intensity or strength.

nuance

A subtle difference in meaning, expression, or sound.

scoundrel

A dishonest or unscrupulous person.

clandestine

Kept secret or done secretively.