Vocabulary Flashcards

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abrogate

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(v.) to repeal, cancel, declare null and void. Often with no legal or moral grounds, the U.S. government would abrogate treaties made with Native Americans.

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ambient

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(adj.) completely surrounding, encompassing. The new filtering system is capable of cleaning and deodorizing the ambient air.

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asperity

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(n.) roughness, severity; bitterness or tartness. The asperity of the drama critic’s statements undermined the young actor’s confidence.

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burnish

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(v.) to make smooth or glossy by rubbing, polish; (n.) gloss, brightness, luster. The hotel manager ordered the waiters to burnish all the brass candlesticks before the formal banquet.

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cabal

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(n.) a small group working in secret. The members of the cabal met at an unknown location for the purpose of fixing prices and stifling competition.

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delectable

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(adj.) delightful, highly enjoyable; deliciously flavored, savory; (n.) an appealing or appetizing food or dish. The banquet ended with a truly delectable dessert made of peaches, raspberries, and ice cream.

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deprecate

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(v.) to express mild disapproval; to belittle. The administration deprecated such foolish practices as the hazing of new students.

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detritus

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(n.) loose bits and pieces of material resulting from disintegration or wearing away; fragments that result from any destruction. Pieces of people’s homes, furniture, and toys could be seen in the detritus of the landslide.

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ebullient

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(adj.) overflowing with enthusiasm and excitement; boiling, bubbling. After a string of very favorable reviews, the dance company was in an ebullient mood for weeks.

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eclectic

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(adj.) drawn from different sources; (n.) one whose beliefs are drawn from various sources. Stanford White developed an eclectic style of architecture that made use of classic and modern elements.