Personality, Character Traits, and Psychological Vocabulary

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering character similes, compound adjectives, psychological personality terms, character collocations, and descriptive adjectives from all lecture sources.

As cool as a cucumber

A character simile meaning extraordinarily calm, relaxed, and untroubled by stress or tense situations.

As stubborn as a mule

A character simile meaning extremely inflexible and obstinate in one's opinions or decisions.

As solid as a rock

A character simile meaning exceptionally reliable, dependable, and steady.

As hard as nails

A character simile describing someone who is cold, unfeeling, and devoid of sympathy.

As dull as ditchwater

A character simile meaning extremely uninteresting or boring.

As different as chalk and cheese

A simile describing two individuals or things that are completely opposite and unlike one another.

As bright as a button

A simile meaning energetic, cheerful, and full of life and vitality.

As bold as brass

A simile meaning entirely confident, forward, and audacious.

As proud as a peacock

A simile describing someone who is conceited and possesses an excessively high opinion of themselves.

As tough as old boots

A simile describing a person who is exceptionally strong, resilient, and not easily intimidated.

Nature versus nurture debate

One of the oldest psychological arguments exploring whether human temperament and traits are pre-programmed into DNA or shaped primarily by life experiences and environment.

Temperament

An individual's inherent biological disposition or emotional reactivity, debated as being programmed in DNA versus shaped by nurture.

Disposition

An abstract, inherent psychological quality of mind and character, including intelligence and personal preferences.

Bad-tempered

Easily annoyed, irritable, or prone to angry outbursts, particularly when subjected to pressure.

Self-centred

Excessively focused on oneself, believing that the world revolves around one's own needs and desires.

Laid-back

Relaxed, easygoing, and calm in demeanor; unlikely to scold or become agitated.

Open-minded

Tolerant, receptive, and willing to consider new or differing views and behaviors without becoming upset.

Quick-witted

Showing mental sharpness, intelligence, and the capacity to react fast to unexpected situations or dangers.

Strong-willed

Determined and resolute in personality; persistent in getting one's way.

Warm-hearted

Affectionate, kind, and demonstrating genuine care and warmth toward others.

Solitary

Characterized by preferring solitude or spending time alone rather than in the company of others.

Impartial

Treating all parties equally; completely fair and unbiased.

Unassuming

Modest, humble, and not arrogant or seeking to draw attention to oneself.

Forceful

Overly assertive, domineering, or demanding; compelling others to act against their preferences.

Affluent

Possessing abundant financial resources; wealthy and rich.

Pioneering

Being the first to introduce, innovate, or explore a new method, idea, or territory.

Steadfast

Firmly loyal, constant, and faithful; dedicated to never betraying or letting someone down.

Conscientious

Extremely thorough, diligent, and careful; never overlooking critical details.

Hans Eysenck

A 20th-century psychologist born in Berlin in 1916 who dedicated himself to studying personality and intelligence, received his PhD from University College London in 1940, and died in 1997.

Neuroticism

A psychological concept developed by Hans Eysenck defined as a biological form of emotional instability.

Thwart

To block, hinder, or prevent plans or ambitions from being fulfilled.

Michael Eysenck

The son of Hans Eysenck who emulated his father by becoming a professor of psychology.

Paragon of virtue

An individual regarded as an immaculate or perfect embodiment of moral rectitude and goodness.

Shining example

A prime or prominent illustration of a particular quality, outcome, or behavior.

Character flaw

An imperfection, failing, or negative behavioral tendency in an individual's character.

Vice

A harmful or morally bad habit, practice, or failing, such as smoking.

Shortcoming

A defect, failing, or deficiency in someone's temperament or behavior, such as impatience.

Gregarious

Highly sociable, bubbly, and enthusiastic about spending time in large groups of friends.

Amiable

Pleasant, friendly, and good-natured in disposition.

Placid

Calm, peaceful, and not easily irritated or upset.

Impudent

Disrespectful, impertinent, or insolent in manner or speech.

Considerate

Thoughtful, kind, and generous regarding the needs, time, and feelings of others.

Reserved

Timid, inhibited, and slow to express feelings or mingle in loud social settings.

Conceited

Excessively vain, arrogant, and self-important with an inflated opinion of oneself.