AP Lit Vocab Set 5

consternation

feelings of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected

conundrum

a confusing and difficult problem or question

coterie

a small group of people with shares interests or tastes, especially one that is exclusive of other people

emollient

having the quality of softening or soothing the skin

expiate

atone for (guilt or sin)

extricate

free (someone or something) from a constraint or difficulty

flippancy

lack of respect or seriousness; frivolousness

foist

impose an unwelcome or unnecessary person or thing on

incongruous

not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects of something

innocuous

not harmful or offensive

inveterate

having a particular habit, activity, or interest that is long-established and unlikely to change

plethora

a large or excessive amount of (something)

preamble

a preliminary or preparatory statement; an introduction

soluble

(or a substance) able to be dissolved, especially in water; (of a problem) able to be solved

vitriolic

Filled with bitter criticism or malice