Untitled Flashcard Set

Bildungsroman

A novel that follows the protagonist’s growth from a naive child into a reflective adult.

burlesque

A parody that exaggerates superhero clichés for humor.

baroque

Architecture characterized by ornate carvings and dramatic details.

picaresque

A story featuring a clever wanderer who survives by wit rather than virtue.

fiscal

Related to government revenue, especially taxes.

prosody

The study of rhythm and meter in poetry.

lassitude

A state of physical or mental weariness; lack of energy.

vestige

A trace or remnant of something that is disappearing or no longer exists.

neophyte

A beginner or novice in a particular activity.

deus ex machina

An unexpected power or event saving a seemingly hopeless situation.

gratis

Free; without charge.

rustic

Relating to the countryside; rural and simple.

urbane

Suave, courteous, and refined in manner.

poltroon

A coward; someone who is very afraid.

gauche

Lacking social grace; awkward or tactless.

libertine

A person who rejects social conventions and lives for pleasure.

aesthetic

Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.

ascetic

Characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from indulgence.

epiphany

A moment of sudden revelation or insight.

enjambment

The continuation of a sentence or clause across a line break in poetry.

germane

Relevant to the subject at hand.

atrophy

The wasting away of a body organ or tissue.

temper (v)

To moderate or soften.

inexorable

Impossible to stop or prevent.

prima donna

A very temperamental and demanding person.

nubble

A small, rounded protrusion of rock.

tony

Fashionable, elegant or wealthy.

saffron

A spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, known for its golden color.

sinew

Strength or resilience; also refers to tendons.

haven

A place of safety or refuge.

Creole

A person of mixed European and black descent, or the cuisine that blends African, French, and Caribbean influences.

coquettish

Characterized by flirtation or an effort to attract attention.

unequivocal

Leaving no doubt; unambiguous.

repugnance

Intense disgust or aversion.

quell

To suppress or put an end to.

pariah

An outcast; someone who is rejected by society.