Advanced Vocabulary: Definitions and Contexts for Students

propound

To put forward an idea, theory, or point for consideration or discussion.

dogma

A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.

abstruse

Difficult to understand; obscure.

conspecific

Belonging to the same species.

accrue

To accumulate or receive (usually payments, benefits, or interests) over time.

miasma

A highly unpleasant or unhealthy atmosphere; historically, a noxious form of 'bad air.'

eminence

Fame or recognized superiority, especially in a particular field or profession.

lineaments

Distinctive features or characteristics, especially of the face.

citadel

A fortress protecting a town; a stronghold.

repined

Expressed discontent or fretfulness.

clerical

Related to office work or the clergy.

propriety

Conformity to accepted standards of behavior or morals.

flanked

Positioned on the side of something or someone.

prescribed

Stated as a rule or guide; officially recommended or directed.

pervasive

Spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people.

ethereal

Extremely delicate, light, or airy in a way that seems too perfect for this world.

fixatives

Substances used to preserve, stabilize, or set something in place (e.g., in art or science).

purported

Claimed to be or reputed; alleged.

staunch

Firm, loyal, and committed in attitude.

undergirded

Supported or strengthened from beneath; provided a firm foundation.

epistemology

The branch of philosophy concerned with the theory of knowledge.

ostensible

Stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.

promulgated

Publicly declared, announced, or put into effect (often laws or decrees).

gravitas

Seriousness, dignity, or weightiness in manner or behavior.

impertinent

Rude, irrelevant, or disrespectful.

affinity

A natural liking, sympathy, or connection between things.

ekphrastic

Descriptive writing or art that vividly represents another work of art.

palpitating

Beating rapidly, strongly, or irregularly (often of the heart).

ruminations

Deep or considered thoughts about something; reflections.

accentuate

To emphasize or make more noticeable.

rectify

To correct or make right.

circumspect

Cautious and unwilling to take risks; careful.

incongruous

Out of place, not in harmony with surroundings.

superfluous

Unnecessary, especially through being more than enough.

heretofore

Before now; previously.

propensity

A natural tendency or inclination to behave in a certain way.

lauded

Praised highly, especially in a public context.