declaration of independence vocab

abolish

verb - to put an end to

usurpations

plural noun - acts of seizing control of power, usually without consent

despotism

noun - absolute rule by a despot, which is usually a cruel and unjust use of power

tyranny

noun - absolute rule by a tyrant, which is usually a cruel and unjust use of power

formidable

adjective - inspiring fear (and sometimes also respect) by being large or powerful

appropriations

plural noun - things taken for one’s own possession

jurisdiction

noun - the right to make, interpret, and apply the law within a territory

arbitrary

adjective - based on random choice or personal whim, and not by any rules or system

mercenaries

plural noun - soldiers hired into a foreign army (for money)

brethren

plural noun - fellow members; brothers

unwarrantable

adjective - not justifiable, not allowable

emigration

noun - the act of leaving a place (like a country) to settle somewhere else

acquiesce

verb - to accept or agree without protest but also without enthusiasm

rectitude

noun - moral integrity; correctness of judgment