High Frequency Vocabulary Words for 6th Grade

Vocabulary List: Vocabulary List: High Frequency Vocabulary Words for ELA

Overview

• Grade Level: 6th Grade

• Subject: English Language Arts

• Topic: High Frequency Vocabulary Words

• Number of Words: 397

Vocabulary Words

1. Word: Accomplish

   • Definition: To achieve or complete a task successfully.

   • Example: She worked hard to accomplish her goals for the school year.

   • Pronunciation: uh-KOM-plish

2. Word: Combination

   • Definition: The result of joining two or more things together.

   • Example: The combination of colors in the painting made it very striking.

   • Pronunciation: kom-buh-NAY-shun

3. Word: Crucial

   • Definition: Extremely important or essential; critical.

   • Example: It is crucial to study for the test to get a good grade.

   • Pronunciation: KROO-shul

4. Word: Duplicate

   • Definition: To make an exact copy of something.

   • Example: Make a duplicate copy of the important document for your records.

   • Pronunciation: DOO-pli-kayt

5. Word: Emerge

   • Definition: To come out or appear from a hidden state.

   • Example: The butterfly will emerge from its cocoon after a few weeks.

   • Pronunciation: ih-MURJ

6. Word: Independent

   • Definition: Not relying on others for support; self-sufficient.

   • Example: She is independent enough to solve problems on her own.

   • Pronunciation: in-di-PEN-dent

7. Word: Overcome

   • Definition: To defeat or prevail over something difficult.

   • Example: He managed to overcome his fears and give a speech in front of the class.

   • Pronunciation: oh-ver-KUHM

8. Word: Peculiar

   • Definition: Strange or unusual; different from what is normal.

   • Example: The peculiar shape of the rock caught everyone's attention.

   • Pronunciation: pi-KYOO-lee-er

9. Word: Perplex

   • Definition: To confuse or puzzle someone.

   • Example: The math problem perplexed the students until the teacher explained it again.

   • Pronunciation: per-PLEX

10. Word: Sparse - Definition: Thinly dispersed or scattered; not dense. - Example: The sparse vegetation in the desert allows little life to thrive. - Pronunciation: SPARCE

Study Tips

• Create flashcards for each word with definitions and synonyms/antonyms.

• Engage in group discussions using the vocabulary words in context.

• Write sentences or a short story incorporating multiple vocabulary words.

Extension Activities

• Have students create a vocabulary poster for their favorite word.

• Conduct a vocabulary scavenger hunt where students find examples of words in books or articles.

• Encourage students to use vocabulary words in their creative writing assignments.

1. Arachne
   Definition: A character in Greek mythology known for her incredible weaving skills, who was turned into a spider by Athena after boasting that her skills surpassed those of the goddess.
   Etymology: From the Greek word 'arachne', meaning 'spider'.
   Example: Arachne's story serves as a cautionary tale about pride.

   Synonyms: weaver, artisan
   Antonyms: none

2. Boastful
   Definition: Desiring to brag; prone to boasting about accomplishments or abilities.
   Etymology: From Middle English 'boastful', combining 'boast' and the suffix '-ful'.
   Example: His boastful attitude made it difficult for others to enjoy his accomplishments.

   Synonyms: bragging, conceited
   Antonyms: humble

3. Insult
   Definition: A disrespectful or scornful remark or action.
   Etymology: From Latin 'insultare', meaning 'to jump on'.
   Example: She considered his comment an insult to her intelligence.

   Synonyms: affront, offense
   Antonyms: compliment

4. Tapestry
   Definition: A piece of fabric with designs created by weaving colored threads or yarns.
   Etymology: From Old French 'tapisserie'.
   Example: The tapestry depicted a beautiful scene from medieval life.

   Synonyms: textile, fabric artwork
   Antonyms: none

5. Destiny
   Definition: The predetermined course of events that is often seen as inevitable.
   Etymology: From Latin 'destinare', meaning 'to determine'.
   Example: Many believe that meeting their partner was part of their destiny.

   Synonyms: fate, fortune
   Antonyms: randomness

6. Transformed
   Definition: Changed in form, appearance, or nature.
   Etymology: From Latin 'transformare', meaning 'to change shape'.
   Example: The caterpillar transformed into a butterfly.

   Synonyms: changed, altered
   Antonyms: unchanged

7. Mortal
   Definition: Subject to death; human.
   Etymology: From Latin 'mortalis', from 'mors' meaning 'death'.
   Example: As mortals, we all face the reality of death.

   Synonyms: human, earthly
   Antonyms: immortal

8. Divine
   Definition: Relating to God or a god; heavenly.
   Etymology: From Latin 'divinus', meaning 'of a god'.
   Example: The divine beauty of the sunset took her breath away.

   Synonyms: godly, celestial
   Antonyms: earthly

9. Punishment
   Definition: The infliction of a penalty for an offense.
   Etymology: From Latin 'punire', meaning 'to punish'.
   Example: The punishment for breaking the rules was community service.

   Synonyms: penalty, repercussion
   Antonyms: reward

10. Species
    Definition: A group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals that can breed and produce fertile offspring.
    Etymology: From Latin 'species', meaning 'appearance'.
    Example: The polar bear is a species native to the Arctic regions.

    Synonyms: type, kind
    Antonyms: none

11. Ecosystem
    Definition: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
    Etymology: From Greek 'oikos' meaning 'house' and 'system'.
    Example: The rainforest is a complex ecosystem with diverse species.

    Synonyms: environment, habitat
    Antonyms: none

12. Hibernation
    Definition: A state of inactivity and metabolic depression in animals during winter.
    Etymology: From Latin 'hibernare', meaning 'to pass the winter'.
    Example: Bears enter a phase of hibernation during the cold months.

    Synonyms: dormancy, sleep
    Antonyms: activity

13. Predator
    Definition: An animal that preys upon others.
    Etymology: From Latin 'praedator', meaning 'plunderer'.
    Example: Wolves are considered apex predators in their ecosystem.

    Synonyms: hunter, killer
    Antonyms: prey

14. Population
    Definition: All the inhabitants of a particular area or belonging to a particular species.
    Etymology: From Latin 'populatio', meaning 'the people'.
    Example: The city's population has been steadily increasing.

    Synonyms: community, demographic
    Antonyms: none

15. Conservation
    Definition: The protection and preservation of natural resources.
    Etymology: From Latin 'conservare', meaning 'to preserve'.
    Example: Conservation efforts are important for endangered species.

    Synonyms: protection, preservation
    Antonyms: exploitation

16. Interaction
    Definition: The reciprocal action or influence between entities.
    Etymology: From Latin 'interactio', meaning 'to act between'.
    Example: The interaction between predator and prey is crucial for ecosystem balance.

    Synonyms: communication, relationship
    Antonyms: isolation

17. Protected
    Definition: Kept safe from harm or destruction.
    Etymology: From Latin 'protectus', meaning 'to shield'.
    Example: The wildlife sanctuary is a protected area for various species.

    Synonyms: safe, secured
    Antonyms: endangered

18. Infestation
    Definition: The presence of a large number of pests or parasites in a particular area.
    Etymology: From Latin 'infestare', meaning 'to attack'.
    Example: The infestation of termites damaged the wooden structures.

    Synonyms: invasion, plague
    Antonyms: elimination

19. Sanitation
    Definition: The development and application of sanitary measures to protect public health.
    Etymology: From Latin 'sanitas', meaning 'health'.
    Example: Good sanitation in urban areas helps prevent the spread of diseases.

    Synonyms: hygiene, cleanliness
    Antonyms: contamination

20. Scavenger
    Definition: An animal that feeds on dead organic matter.
    Etymology: From Latin 'scavare', meaning 'to search'.
    Example: Vultures are known as scavengers who play a role in cleaning the environment.

    Synonyms: forager, cleaner
    Antonyms: none

21. Environment
    Definition: The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives.
    Etymology: From French 'environnement', meaning 'to encircle'.
    Example: The environment significantly affects wildlife health.

    Synonyms: surroundings, habitat
    Antonyms: none

22. Resilient
    Definition: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
    Etymology: From Latin 'resilire', meaning 'to jump back'.
    Example: The resilient community rebuilt after the disaster.

    Synonyms: tough, adaptable
    Antonyms: fragile

23. Inhabit
    Definition: To reside or dwell in a particular place.
    Etymology: From Latin 'inhabitare', meaning 'to dwell in'.
    Example: Many species inhabit the densely forested area.

    Synonyms: reside, occupy
    Antonyms: vacate

24. Eliminate
    Definition: To remove or completely get rid of something.
    Etymology: From Latin 'eliminare', meaning 'to exclude'.
    Example: The team worked diligently to eliminate redundancies in the project.

    Synonyms: remove, eradicate
    Antonyms: include

25. Contamination
    Definition: The presence of an unwanted impurity in a substance.
    Etymology: From Latin 'contaminare', meaning 'to make impure'.
    Example: Water contamination can have serious health effects.

    Synonyms: pollution, tainting
    Antonyms: purification

26. Destruction
    Definition: The act of destroying or the state of being destroyed.
    Etymology: From Latin 'destructio', meaning 'to tear down'.
    Example: The hurricane caused widespread destruction across the coastline.

    Synonyms: devastation, ruin
    Antonyms: construction

27. Evacuation
    Definition: The act of removing people from a dangerous place.
    Etymology: From Latin 'evacuare', meaning 'to empty out'.
    Example: Evacuation orders were issued as the storm approached.

    Synonyms: withdrawal, escape
    Antonyms: settlement

28. Catastrophe
    Definition: A sudden and widespread disaster.
    Etymology: From Greek 'katastrophe', meaning 'overturning'.
    Example: The earthquake was a catastrophe that affected thousands.

    Synonyms: disaster, calamity
    Antonyms: success

29. Firefighters
    Definition: People who extinguish fires and rescue people from dangerous situations involving fire.
    Etymology: Compound word combining 'fire' and 'fighter'.
    Example: Firefighters bravely battled the flames to save the building.

    Synonyms: fireman, rescue worker
    Antonyms: none

30. Flammable
    Definition: Easily set on fire; capable of burning quickly.
    Etymology: From Latin 'flammabilis', meaning 'that can be set on fire'.
    Example: Always keep flammable materials away from heat sources.

    Synonyms: combustible, ignitable
    Antonyms: non-flammable

31. Overwhelmed
    Definition: Completely overcome or overpowered by something.
    Etymology: From Old English 'whelmen', meaning 'to turn over'.
    Example: The team felt overwhelmed by the amount of work left to do.

    Synonyms: overpowered, stunned
    Antonyms: unaffected

32. Devastation
    Definition: Severe and overwhelming destruction or damage.
    Etymology: From Latin 'devastatio', meaning 'to lay waste'.
    Example: The flood caused widespread devastation in the area.

    Synonyms: ruin, destruction
    Antonyms: restoration

33. Panic
    Definition: A sudden feeling of intense fear or anxiety.
    Etymology: From Greek 'panikos', related to the god Pan who caused sudden fright.
    Example: Panic spread through the crowd as the alarm sounded.

    Synonyms: fear, hysteria
    Antonyms: calmness

34. Embers
    Definition: The small glowing pieces of coal or wood in a dying fire.
    Etymology: From Old English 'æmbers', meaning 'a glowing coal'.
    Example: The embers crackled gently in the fireplace.

    Synonyms: coals, ashes
    Antonyms: none

35. Smoldering
    Definition: Burning slowly with smoke but no flame.
    Etymology: From Middle English 'smolderen'.
    Example: The smoldering remains of the fire were still warm hours later.

    Synonyms: burning, smoky
    Antonyms: extinguished

36. Courageous
    Definition: Not deterred by danger or pain; brave.
    Etymology: From Latin 'cor' meaning 'heart'.
    Example: Her courageous actions inspired many in her community.

    Synonyms: brave, valiant
    Antonyms: cowardly

37. Guardian
    Definition: A person who protects or defends something or someone.
    Etymology: From Old French 'gardien', meaning 'one who keeps safe'.
    Example: The guardian of the ancient temple watched over it with great care.

    Synonyms: protector, defender
    Antonyms: betrayer

38. Sacrifice
    Definition: To give up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important.
    Etymology: From Latin 'sacrificium', meaning 'to make sacred'.
    Example: He made a great sacrifice to ensure his family could succeed.

    Synonyms: forfeit, offering
    Antonyms: gain

39. Determined
    Definition: Having made a firm decision and not letting anything stop one from doing it.
    Etymology: From Latin 'determinare', meaning 'to define'.
    Example: She was determined to finish her project despite the challenges.

    Synonyms: resolute, steadfast
    Antonyms: indecisive

40. Treacherous
    Definition: Dangerous, especially in a way that is not obvious.
    Etymology: From Old French 'trecher', meaning 'to betray'.
    Example: The treacherous path was full of hidden dangers.

    Synonyms: perilous, deceitful
    Antonyms: safe

41. Interpreter
    Definition: A person who translates spoken language.
    Etymology: From Latin 'interpres', meaning 'explainer'.
    Example: The interpreter helped bridge the language gap during the meeting.

    Synonyms: translator, mediator
    Antonyms: none

42. Settlement
    Definition: A place where people establish a community.
    Etymology: From Old French 'setlemant', meaning 'the arrangement'.
    Example: The settlement grew rapidly as more settlers arrived.

    Synonyms: colony, community
    Antonyms: none

43. Captivity
    Definition: The state of being held as a prisoner or confined.
    Etymology: From Latin 'captivitas', meaning 'to capture'.
    Example: The animal lived in captivity for most of its life before being freed.

    Synonyms: confinement, imprisonment
    Antonyms: freedom

44. Alliance
    Definition: A union between individuals or groups for mutual benefit.
    Etymology: From Latin 'alliantia', meaning 'to unite'.
    Example: The alliance between the two nations led to peace in the region.

    Synonyms: partnership, coalition
    Antonyms: rivalry

45. Explorer
    Definition: A person who investigates unknown regions.
    Etymology: From Latin 'explorator', meaning 'one who explores'.
    Example: The explorer charted new territories on his journey.

    Synonyms: adventurer, traveler
    Antonyms: settler

46. Negotiations
    Definition: Discussions aimed at reaching an agreement.
    Etymology: From Latin 'negotiatio', meaning 'trade'.
    Example: The negotiations took weeks before a final agreement was reached.

    Synonyms: discussions, bargaining
    Antonyms: none

47. Mission
    Definition: An important assignment or task.
    Etymology: From Latin 'missio', meaning 'to send'.
    Example: The mission to Mars has taken decades of planning.

    Synonyms: objective, goal
    Antonyms: aimlessness

48. Ceremony
    Definition: A formal event held on special occasions.
    Etymology: From Latin 'caerimonia', meaning 'sacred rite'.
    Example: The graduation ceremony was filled with joy and celebration.

    Synonyms: ritual, observance
    Antonyms: none

49. Tradition
    Definition: The transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation.
    Etymology: From Latin 'traditio', meaning 'to deliver'.
    Example: It is a tradition in their family to gather every year for a reunion.

    Synonyms: custom, practice
    Antonyms: innovation

50. Heritage
    Definition: Valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions that have been passed down from previous generations.
    Etymology: From Latin 'hereditas', meaning 'inheritance'.
    Example: The town takes pride in its rich heritage.

    Synonyms: legacy, inheritance
    Antonyms: none

51. Preparation
    Definition: The action or process of making ready or being made ready for use.
    Etymology: From Latin 'praeparare', meaning 'to make ready'.
    Example: Proper preparation is essential for success in any endeavor.

    Synonyms: arrangement, planning
    Antonyms: recklessness

52. Culture
    Definition: The social behavior and norms found in human societies.
    Etymology: From Latin 'cultura', meaning 'to cultivate'.
    Example: Their culture is known for its rich history and traditions.

    Synonyms: civilization, society
    Antonyms: none

53. Identity
    Definition: The fact of being who or what a person or thing is.
    Etymology: From Latin 'identitas', meaning 'the same'.
    Example: She struggled with her identity as a first-generation immigrant.

    Synonyms: individuality, character
    Antonyms: anonymity

54. Basket
    Definition: A container used to hold or carry things, typically made from flexible materials.
    Etymology: From Middle French 'basquet'.
    Example: The basket was filled with fresh fruit.

    Synonyms: container, receptacle
    Antonyms: none

55. Ceremonial
    Definition: Relating to or used for formal events or ceremonies.
    Etymology: From Latin 'caerimonialis', meaning 'pertaining to religious rites'.
    Example: The ceremonial dress was worn during the important event.

    Synonyms: formal, ritualistic
    Antonyms: casual

56. Fermented
    Definition: The chemical breakdown of a substance by bacteria, yeasts, or other microorganisms.
    Etymology: From Latin 'fermentare'.
    Example: Fermented foods can have unique flavors and health benefits.

    Synonyms: processed, brewed
    Antonyms: fresh

57. Beacon
    Definition: A signaling or guiding device, often a light.
    Etymology: Middle English 'beacon', meaning 'signal fire'.
    Example: The lighthouse serves as a beacon for ships at sea.

    Synonyms: signal, guide
    Antonyms: none

58. Exile
    Definition: The state of being barred from one's native country, typically for political reasons.
    Etymology: From Latin 'exilium', meaning 'banishment'.
    Example: The poet lived in exile for many years.

    Synonyms: banishment, ostracism
    Antonyms: return

59. Tempest
    Definition: A violent storm.
    Etymology: From Latin 'tempestas', meaning 'weather'.
    Example: The tempest caused significant damage along the coast.

    Synonyms: storm, upheaval
    Antonyms: calm

60. Yearning
    Definition: A feeling of intense longing for something.
    Etymology: From Old English 'geornung', meaning 'to desire'.
    Example: There was a deep yearning in her heart to travel the world.

    Synonyms: longing, desire
    Antonyms: satisfaction

61. Wretched
    Definition: In a very unhappy or unfortunate state.
    Etymology: From Old English 'wrecched', meaning 'banished'.
    Example: The wretched conditions in the refugee camp were heartbreaking.

    Synonyms: miserable, deplorable
    Antonyms: joyful

62. Refuse
    Definition: To indicate or show that one is not willing to do something; to decline.
    Etymology: From Latin 'refutare', meaning 'to drive back'.
    Example: He had to refuse the invitation due to prior commitments.

    Synonyms: decline, reject
    Antonyms: accept

63. Huddled
    Definition: Crowded together; in a close group.
    Etymology: From Middle English 'hodlen', meaning 'to press closely'.
    Example: The children were huddled together for warmth.

    Synonyms: clustered, grouped
    Antonyms: dispersed

64. Teeming
    Definition: Abundantly filled or swarming with life.
    Etymology: From Middle English 'temen', meaning 'to be full'.
    Example: The teeming metropolis never sleeps.

    Synonyms: overflowing, swarming
    Antonyms: empty