Outliers - Vocabulary in Context

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Outliers (Introduction through Epilogue).

egalitarian

Relating to or believing in equal rights and opportunities for all people.

ethos

The characteristic spirit, beliefs, or guiding values of a person, group, or culture.

meritocracy

A system in which advancement is based on individual merit, talent, and effort rather than class or wealth.

crucible

A severe test or trial; or a container used for heating substances at high temperatures; metaphorically, a challenging situation that tests character.

paradigm

A typical example or model; a framework for thinking about something.

cohort

A group of people sharing a common characteristic or experience; often studied or observed together.

abstruse

Difficult to understand; obscure.

cognitive

Relating to mental processes such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving.

threshold

The entrance, border, or starting point of a new state or condition; the level at which something begins.

subversive

Seeking to undermine or overthrow established authority or norms; disruptive.

inquisitive

Curious and eager for knowledge; inclined to inquire.

savvy

Having practical knowledge and shrewd understanding; street-smart.

consequential

Important; significant; following as a result of a previous action.

submissive

Ready to yield to others; compliant or passive.

brevity

Concise use of words; shortness.

antecedent

Something that existed before or preceded another; an earlier event or condition.

credentials

Documents or qualifications proving a person’s identity or abilities.

WASP

White Anglo-Saxon Protestant; a historically dominant group in the United States.

purported

Claimed or alleged; believed by some but not necessarily proven.

imperious

Arrogantly domineering or commanding; expecting obedience.

confederate

A person who collaborates with others for a common purpose; an ally or associate.

nonchalant

Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

mitigate

To make less severe, serious, or painful.

indelible

Permanent; not able to be erased or forgotten.

fundamental

Forming the essential base or core; of central importance.

idealist

A person who envisions or pursues noble goals or ideals.

daunting

Intimidating or challenging; likely to discourage.

concubine

A woman who lives with a man without being legally married to him; a secondary wife.

miscegenation

Interracial mixing or mating between people of different racial groups.

progeny

Offspring; descendants.

fetish

An object or idea regarded with unusual or excessive interest or devotion.