AP Lit Volume One Vocab - Teacher Definitions

Discretion

the quality of having or showing good judgment : the ability to make responsible decisions

Amend

to put right ; the state of being fixed or altered in a positive manner.

Amiable

pleasing; admirable; sociable

Former

coming before in time

Civil

adequate in courtesy or politeness; mannerly

Mortify

to subject to severe embarrassment

Felicity

the quality or state of being happy

Indignation

anger aroused by something unjust, unworthy, or mean

Propriety

conformity to the conventional rules of polite society, especially social rules involving interactions between the sexes

Vexation

the quality or state of being irritated or troubled

Complaisance

the disposition to please or comply

Condescend

to waive or set aside the privileges of rank; to descend to a less formal or dignified level; to assume an air of superiority

Condescension

an air of superiority; a descent to a less formal level; an act completed in a manner that sets aside the privileges of rank

Impertinence

lack of restraint, especially in matters of good taste or proper behavior

Approbation

an act of approval, formally or officially

Deference

respect and esteem due a superior or an elder; also : affected or ingratiating regard for another's wishes

Reproof

criticism for a fault

Rational

related to, based upon, or agreeable to reason

Commendation

a compliment (archaic form)

Disdain

a feeling of contempt for someone or something regarded as unworthy or inferior; to look on (someone or something) with scorn or contempt

Forbearance

the act of refraining from the enforcement of something (as a debt, right, or obligation) that is due

Imprudence

the quality or state of one lacking discretion, wisdom, or good judgment

Diffidence

the quality or state of being unassertive or bashful

Lament

to mourn aloud; to express sorrow, mourning, or regret for often demonstratively

Abhorrence

a feeling of strong repugnance or disgust

Incredulous

unwilling to admit or accept what is offered as true