20th Century: Vocab List #4

Dissipation - verb

The process of breaking up and scattering by dispersion

Precocious - adjective

Characterized by exceptionally early development or maturity; advanced mental aptitude

Genial - adjective

Pleasant; friendly

Quandary - noun

A state of uncertainty or perplexity

Maroon - verb

To leave stranded with no hope of rescue

Reproach - noun

The expression of disapproval or disappointment; blame

Archaic - adjective

Extremely old as seeming to belong to an earlier period

Jocular - adjective

Characterized by jokes and good humor

Coquettishly - adverb

To do something or act in a flirtatious manner

Roguish - adjective

Playfully mischievous or deceitful

Tremulous - adjective

Trembling from fear or nervousness

Deft - adjective

Skillful in physical movements, especially in the hands

Precedent - noun

An event or decision that can be used as an example or standard

Frivolity - noun

Silly or trivial behavior

Incendiary - adjective

Causing conflict, provocative, or subversive

Lethargic - adjective

Sluggish, tired

Litany - noun

A long, drawn out list

Squander - verb

To waste in a reckless or foolish manner

Infallible - adjective

Incapable of making mistakes or being wrong

Audacity - noun

The willingness to take bold risks