Advanced Vocabulary: Definitions of Key Literary and Descriptive Words

nondescript

lacking distinctive or interesting features or characteristics; dull or unremarkable.

convalescence

the gradual recovery of health and strength after illness or weakness.

salient

most noticeable or important; prominent.

prodigious

a large amount.

inveigle

persuade (someone) to do something by means of deception or flattery.

reverberant

echoing; having a prolonged or continued sound.

formidable

inspiring fear or respect through being large, powerful, or intense.

inane

lacking sense or meaning; silly or foolish.

indignant

feeling or showing anger or annoyance at something perceived as unfair.

insidious

proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects; treacherous.

evade

to escape or avoid, especially by cleverness or trickery.

enmity

a feeling of active hostility or hatred.

effulgence

radiant splendor; a brilliant shining.

jounced

moved or bounced roughly up and down.

decalogue

literally 'the Ten Commandments'; a basic set of rules or principles.

idiosyncratic

peculiar or individual; distinctive in a personal or unique way.

exaltation

a feeling or state of extreme happiness; also, the act of praising highly.

dispensation

exemption from a rule or usual requirement; or a system of order or administration.

extrovert

An outgoing, socially confident person who is energized by interaction with others.

fratricide

The act of killing one's own brother (can also be used metaphorically to describe conflict between close individuals or groups).

galvanized

Shocked or excited into taking action.

'contretemps'

An unexpected and unfortunate occurrence, especially a minor conflict or disagreement.

commandeered

Took control or possession of something, often for military or official use.

contemptuously

In a scornful or disrespectful manner; showing disdain.

encumbrance

A burden; something that restricts or weighs down.

opulent

Rich, luxurious, or lavish.

sobriety

The state of being serious, sensible, and solemn; also means the state of not being under the influence of alcohol.

reticent

Reserved; not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily.

aphorism

A brief, witty statement that expresses a general truth or principle.

pungent

Having a strong, sharp taste or smell; also used to describe sharp or biting comments.

exhorted

Urged or strongly encouraged someone to do something.

sententiousness

A moralizing tone or manner, often in a self-righteous or pompous way.