Vocabulary List: Definitions and Parts of Speech

Imperiously Adverb

In a commanding, arrogant, or domineering manner.

Apprehensive Adjective

Anxious or fearful about something that may happen.

Crestfallen Adjective

Disappointed, dejected, or discouraged.

Derision Noun

Ridicule; mockery or contemptuous laughter.

Aloof Adjective

Distant, detached, or uninvolved emotionally.

Sullenly Adverb

In a gloomy, resentful, or silent manner.

Exposition Noun

Background information or explanation in a story.

Recumbent Adjective

Lying down; reclining.

Brusquely Adverb

In a blunt, abrupt, or rude manner.

Tramp Noun

A homeless wanderer; someone who travels on foot.

Bemused Adjective

Confused, puzzled, or bewildered.

Reprehensible Adjective

Deserving blame or strong criticism.

Bemoan Verb

To express sorrow or complain about something.

Tenement Noun

A run-down apartment building, often in a crowded urban area.

Delinquent Adjective/Noun

Failing to do what is required; a young offender.

Ardent Adjective

Passionate; enthusiastic; devoted.

Callous Adjective

Emotionally insensitive; unfeeling.

Elude Verb

To escape from or avoid being caught or understood.

Existentialism Noun

A philosophy emphasizing individual freedom, choice, and responsibility.

Farce Noun

A ridiculous situation or a humorous play with exaggerated events.

Gloat Verb

To take excessive satisfaction in one's success or another's failure.

Interminable Adjective

Endless; seeming to go on forever.

Leer Verb

To look at someone in a sly, suggestive, or unpleasant way.

Palpable Adjective

Easily noticed; so intense it seems tangible.

Surreal Adjective

Strange or dreamlike; unreal.

Contention Noun

An argument, dispute, or point of disagreement.

Ambivalent Adjective

Having mixed or conflicting feelings about something.

Austere Adjective

Severe, strict, or simple with little decoration.

Disparage Verb

To belittle or speak negatively about.

Duplicitous Adjective

Deceitful; dishonest; two-faced.

Ubiquitous Adjective

Present everywhere; widespread.

Redundant Adjective

Unnecessarily repetitive; not needed because something else serves the same purpose.

Esoteric Adjective

Intended for or understood by only a small group with specialized knowledge.

Cacophony Noun

A harsh mixture of loud, unpleasant sounds.

Pragmatist Noun

A person who deals with problems in a practical, realistic way.