AP Lit Vocab #4

acme (n.)

the point at which someone or something is best, perfect, or most successful.

apocryphal (adj.)

(of a story or statement) of doubtful authenticity, although widely circulated as being true.

catharsis (n.)

the process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions.

desiccate (v.)

remove the moisture from (something); cause to become completely dry.

dissipate (v.)

(with reference to a feeling or other intangible thing) disappear or cause to disappear

efficacious (adj.)

(of something inanimate or abstract) successful in producing a desired or intended result; effective.

ineffable (adj.)

too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words.

intrinsic (adj.)

belonging naturally; essential.

inundate (v.)

overwhelm someone with things or people to be dealt with.

kudos (n.)

praise and honor received for an achievement.

maxim (n.)

a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.

putrid (adj.)

(of organic matter) decaying or rotting and emitting a fetid smell.

revere (v.)

feel deep respect or admiration for something.

servile (adj.)

having or showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others.

superfluous (adj.)

unnecessary, especially through being more than enough.