Advanced Vocabulary: Definitions for Literature and Social Studies

amorphous

Without a clearly defined shape or form; vague or unstructured.

apt

Suitable or appropriate; having a tendency to do something.

clad

Dressed or covered in a particular way.

conflagrations

Large, destructive fires; also intense conflicts.

customary

Usual, traditional, or commonly practiced.

disenfranchised

Deprived of rights, especially the right to vote or participate fully in society.

drear(y)

Gloomy, bleak, or dull.

empirical

Based on observation, experience, or experiment rather than theory.

eminence

Fame or recognized superiority, especially within a field.

episodic desiccation

Drying out that occurs irregularly or in episodes, often due to environmental conditions.

hark

To listen attentively; often used in the phrase "hark back" (to recall).

incite

To stir up, provoke, or encourage action, often violent or unlawful.

kindred

Related by blood; also, having similar nature, character, or beliefs.

obviate

To remove or prevent the need for something; to make unnecessary.

oligarchy

A form of government in which power is held by a small, privileged group.

opalescent

Showing a play of colors like an opal; shimmering or iridescent.

reft

Archaic past of "reave"; taken away, robbed, or deprived.

relinquish

To voluntarily give up or let go of something.

rend

To tear apart violently.

sheaves

Bundles of grain stalks tied together after harvesting.

tumultuous

Loud, chaotic, and disorderly; also marked by emotional turbulence.