1st SW Vocab

ambivalent

adj. having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something

avant-garde

adj. favoring or introducing experimental ideas

belie

v. fail to give a true notion or impression of something

blithe

adj. casual; indifferent; careless

dichotomy

n. a division or contrast between two things that are opposed or entirely different

diction

n. the choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing

disavow

v. deny any responsibility or support for

discerning

adj. having or showing good judgement

ephemeral

adj. lasting for a very short time

epigram

n. a pithy saying or remark expressing an idea in a clever & amusing way; witticism; pain

equanimity

n. mental calmness, composure, evenness of temper

eschewed

v. deliberately avoid using; to abstain from

fortuitous

adj. accidental; happening by chance or luck

magnanimous

adj. very generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful

pacifist

n. a person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable

paternalistic

adj. relating to or characterized by the restriction of the freedom/responsibilities or subordinates or dependents

reverent

adj. feeling or showing profound respect or veneration

saccharine

adj. excessively sweet or sentimental

staunch

adj. strong, loyal, and committed in attitude

substantiate

v. provide evidence to support or prove the truth of