Nelson-Denny Vocabulary Study Guide

A collection of practice flashcards defining key vocabulary words from the Nelson-Denny Vocabulary Study Guide.

What is the definition of "Abruptly"?

Suddenly; without warning

What is the meaning of "Admonitions"?

Warnings or mild reprimands

How is "Aesthetic" defined?

Concerned with beauty or artistic appearance

What does "Apathetically" mean?

Without interest, emotion, or concern

Define "Apothecary".

A person who prepares or sells medicines

What is a "Bequest"?

Something left to someone in a will

Define the word "Belligerent".

Hostile; aggressive

What does "Cacophony" refer to?

A harsh mixture of loud sounds

What is the definition of "Capricious"?

Unpredictable; changing suddenly

Define "Complacent".

Too satisfied with oneself; unconcerned

What does "Copious" mean?

Abundant; plentiful

What is the definition of "Credulity"?

Willingness to believe too easily

Define "Demise".

Death; end

How is "Despotic" defined?

Tyrannical; ruling with absolute power

What does "Dogmatic" mean?

Stubbornly asserting beliefs as unquestionably true

Define "Drudgery".

Tedious, unpleasant, repetitive work

What is the definition of "Ebullient"?

Extremely enthusiastic and cheerful

What is an "Enigma"?

A mystery; something difficult to understand

Define "Ennui".

Boredom and lack of interest

What does "Ethereal" mean?

Extremely delicate; heavenly or otherworldly

How is "Exigent" defined?

Urgent; requiring immediate action

Define "Fallacious".

Based on faulty reasoning; misleading

What is the definition of "Feckless"?

Lacking effectiveness, strength, or determination

What does "Formidable" mean?

Difficult to overcome; intimidating

Define "Fracas".

A noisy fight or disturbance

What is the meaning of "Glib"?

Fluent but shallow or insincere

Define "Introspective".

Examining one's own thoughts and feelings

What does "Lethargic" mean?

Very tired and lacking energy

What is the definition of "Libel"?

A false written statement that damages someone's reputation

How is "Meticulous" defined?

Extremely careful and precise

What does "Mollifying" mean?

Calming or soothing anger

Define "Myopic".

Short-sighted; lacking long-term understanding

What is the definition of "Obdurate"?

Stubborn; unwilling to change

What does "Onerous" mean?

Burdensome; difficult or troublesome

Define "Ostentatious".

Showy in an attempt to impress

What is the definition of "Pallid"?

Pale; lacking color

How is "Plausible" defined?

Seemingly reasonable or believable

What does "Prevaricate" mean?

To avoid the truth; speak evasively

Define the term "Prodigious".

Enormous; remarkably great

What is the definition of "Quiescent"?

Inactive; still; at rest

What does "Querulous" mean?

Complaining; whining

Define "Rarefy".

To make less dense or more refined

What is the definition of "Repose"?

Rest; a state of relaxation

What does "Sardonic" mean?

Mocking or bitterly humorous

Define "Soporific".

Causing sleepiness

How is "Stultify" defined?

To make ineffective or dull

What does "Succulent" mean?

Juicy; containing lots of moisture

Define "Torpor".

A state of extreme laziness or inactivity

What is a "Tyro"?

A beginner; novice

What does "Unequivocal" mean?

Clear; leaving no doubt

Define "Usury".

Excessively high interest charged on a loan

What is the definition of "Venal"?

Corrupt; willing to take bribes

What does "Vilify" mean?

To speak about someone abusively; defame

Define "Virulent".

Extremely harmful, hostile, or severe

What is the meaning of "Whet"?

To sharpen; to stimulate interest or appetite

Define "Zealous".

Extremely enthusiastic or devoted