Crucible Vocabulary

Ingratiate (V)

To gain favor with somebody by deliberate efforts.

Ex: The student attempted to ingratiate himself by showering his teacher with praise and bringing her treats.

Licentious (Adj.)

To lack moral discipline.

Ex: The woman on the bus felt uncomfortable with her fellow passenger’s licentious stare.

Pretense (N)

The act of giving a false appearance.

Ex: Under the pretense of being storm victims, the couple scammed the federal government out of a lot of money.

Ameliorate (V)

To make better.

Ex: Applying soothing aloe to a sunburn will ameliorate the pain.

Avid (Adj.)

Marked by active interest and enthusiasm.

Ex: The avid film enthusiasts showed their appreciation through vigorous applause. 

Base (N)

The bottom or lowest part.

Ex: His base instinct was to run when threatened.

Deference (N)

Courteous regard for people’s feelings.

Ex: Diplomats often show deference when meeting with foreign leaders.

Theology (N)

The rational and systematic study of religion.

Ex: The theology student loved God.

Abomination (N)

Hate coupled with disgust.

Ex: The senate aide felt the rudeness he showed the senator was an abomination to her high office.

Crucible (N)

A vessel used for high temperature chemical reactions.

Ex: The crucible reached a high temperature.