Expand Your Vocabulary
One of the keys to captivating writing is using precise and expressive vocabulary. Expanding your vocabulary helps you articulate your thoughts more clearly and engages your readers with fresh and interesting language. Below is a curated list of unique words that can elevate your writing to the next level.
A
Abate (verb)
To become less intense or widespread.
Example: “The storm began to abate after several hours.”
Aberrant (adjective)
Departing from an accepted standard.
Example: “His aberrant behavior raised concerns.”
Aberration (noun)
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected, typically one that is unwelcome.
Example: “The anomaly was an aberration in the data.”
Abhor (verb)
To regard with disgust and hatred.
Example: “She abhors violence of any kind.”
Abject (adjective)
Extremely bad, unpleasant, and degrading; completely without pride or dignity.
Example: “They lived in abject poverty, struggling to meet basic needs.”
Abnegate (verb)
To renounce or reject something desired or valuable.
Example: “He decided to abnegate his privileges for the greater good.”
Abnegation (noun)
The act of renouncing or rejecting something; self-denial.
Example: “Her abnegation of luxury allowed her to live a simpler life.”
Abrogate (verb)
To repeal or do away with a law, right, or formal agreement.
Example: “They moved to abrogate outdated regulations.”
Absolve (verb)
To set or declare someone free from blame, guilt, or responsibility.
Example: “The court absolved her of all charges.”
Abstruse (adjective)
Difficult to understand; obscure.
Example: “The philosopher’s theories were abstruse.”
Acquiesce (verb)
To accept something reluctantly but without protest.
Example: “She acquiesced to her boss’s demands.”
Acrimonious (adjective)
Angry and bitter, typically of speech or a debate.
Example: “Their acrimonious divorce attracted media attention.”
Acrimony (noun)
Bitterness or ill feeling.
Example: “The debate was marked by acrimony and personal attacks.”
Affable (adjective)
Friendly, good-natured, or easy to talk to.
Example: “Her affable personality made her popular.”
Altruism (noun)
The belief in or practice of selfless concern for others.
Example: “Her altruism inspired many to volunteer.”
Ambiguous (adjective)
Open to more than one interpretation; having a double meaning.
Example: “The instructions were ambiguous and led to confusion.”
Ambivalent (adjective)
Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone.
Example: “She felt ambivalent about moving to a new city.”
Ameliorate (verb)
To make something bad or unsatisfactory better.
Example: “Measures were taken to ameliorate the situation.”
Austere (adjective)
Severe or strict in manner or appearance; unadorned.
Example: “The monk led an austere life.”
B
Banal (adjective)
So lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring.
Example: “The movie’s plot was banal.”
Belittle (verb)
To make someone or something seem unimportant.
Example: “He tends to belittle the achievements of others.”
Bellicose (adjective)
Demonstrating aggression and willingness to fight.
Example: “His bellicose rhetoric increased tensions.”
Belligerent (adjective)
Hostile and aggressive.
Example: “His belligerent attitude caused conflicts.”
Bellwether (noun)
An indicator or predictor of future trends.
Example: “The technology sector is often a bellwether for economic growth.”
Benevolence (noun)
The quality of being well-meaning; kindness.
Example: “Her benevolence was evident in her charitable works.”
Benevolent (adjective)
Well-meaning and kindly.
Example: “The benevolent donor contributed generously to the charity.”
Benign (adjective)
Gentle and kindly; not harmful in effect.
Example: “The tumor was found to be benign after testing.”
Bereft (adjective)
Deprived of or lacking something, especially a nonmaterial asset.
Example: “He felt bereft after his closest friend moved away.”
Blatant (adjective)
Completely lacking in subtlety; very obvious.
Example: “His blatant disregard for the rules was unacceptable.”
Blithe (adjective)
Showing a casual and cheerful indifference.
Example: “She had a blithe disregard for the rules.”
Bombastic (adjective)
High-sounding but with little meaning; inflated.
Example: “His bombastic speech failed to impress.”
Brevity (noun)
Concise and exact use of words in writing or speech.
Example: “The report is notable for its clarity and brevity.”
Brusque (adjective)
Abrupt or offhand in speech or manner.
Example: “His brusque reply ended the conversation quickly.”
Bucolic (adjective)
Relating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside.
Example: “They enjoyed the bucolic scenery.”
Burgeon (verb)
To begin to grow or increase rapidly; flourish.
Example: “The city’s population began to burgeon after the new industry moved in.”
Burgeoning (adjective)
Beginning to grow or increase rapidly; flourishing.
Example: “The burgeoning tech industry offers many job opportunities.”
C
Cacophonous (adjective)
Involving a harsh, discordant mixture of sounds.
Example: “The cacophonous noise from the traffic was overwhelming.”
Cacophony (noun)
A harsh discordant mixture of sounds.
Example: “The cacophony of the traffic made it hard to concentrate.”
Cajole (verb)
To persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery.
Example: “She tried to cajole him into attending the event.”
Camaraderie (noun)
Mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together.
Example: “The camaraderie among the teammates was evident during the game.”
Candid (adjective)
Truthful and straightforward; frank.
Example: “She appreciated his candid feedback on her work.”
Capitulate (verb)
To cease to resist; surrender.
Example: “They were forced to capitulate to the enemy.”
Capricious (adjective)
Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.
Example: “The weather in the mountains is capricious.”
Chastise (verb)
To rebuke or reprimand severely.
Example: “He was chastised for his negligence.”
Circumspect (adjective)
Wary and unwilling to take risks; cautious.
Example: “She was circumspect about revealing personal information.”
Clandestine (adjective)
Kept secret or done secretively, especially because illicit.
Example: “They held clandestine meetings away from prying eyes.”
Cognizant (adjective)
Having knowledge or being aware of.
Example: “He was fully cognizant of the risks involved.”
Conflagration (noun)
An extensive fire that destroys a great deal of land or property.
Example: “The conflagration consumed the entire forest.”
Conundrum (noun)
A confusing and difficult problem or question.
Example: “She faced the conundrum of choosing between careers.”
Convoluted (adjective)
Extremely complex and difficult to follow.
Example: “The novel’s plot was so convoluted that many readers gave up.”
Credulous (adjective)
Having or showing too great a readiness to believe things; gullible.
Example: “The credulous audience believed every word he said.”
D
Dauntless (adjective)
Showing fearlessness and determination.
Example: “The dauntless explorer ventured into uncharted territories.”
Debacle (noun)
A sudden and ignominious failure; a fiasco.
Example: “The product launch turned into a debacle due to technical issues.”
Debilitate (verb)
To make someone weak and infirm.
Example: “The disease will debilitate him for weeks.”
Debunk (verb)
To expose the falseness of a myth, idea, or belief.
Example: “The scientist aimed to debunk misconceptions about climate change.”
Deference (noun)
Humble submission and respect.
Example: “He showed deference to the experienced teacher.”
Deft (adjective)
Neatly skillful and quick in one’s movements.
Example: “The musician’s deft fingers moved over the keys.”
Deleterious (adjective)
Causing harm or damage.
Example: “The chemical spill had deleterious effects on the environment.”
Delineate (verb)
To describe or portray something precisely.
Example: “The contract will delineate the responsibilities of each party.”
Demure (adjective)
Reserved, modest, and shy.
Example: “She gave a demure smile when introduced.”
Deride (verb)
To express contempt for; ridicule.
Example: “Critics derided the new movie as uninspired.”
Despondent (adjective)
In low spirits from loss of hope or courage.
Example: “He grew despondent after failing the exam.”
Diaphanous (adjective)
Light, delicate, and translucent.
Example: “The diaphanous curtains fluttered in the breeze.”
Dichotomy (noun)
A division between two things that are entirely different.
Example: “There’s a dichotomy between theory and practice.”
Disdain (noun)
The feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one’s consideration or respect.
Example: “She looked at the mess with disdain.”
Disparage (verb)
To regard or represent as being of little worth.
Example: “He never missed an opportunity to disparage his competitors.”
Disparate (adjective)
Essentially different in kind; not allowing comparison.
Example: “The two cultures were so disparate, they had little in common.”
Dubious (adjective)
Hesitating or doubting; not to be relied upon.
Example: “She was dubious about the effectiveness of the new policy.”
E
Ebullience (noun)
The quality of being cheerful and full of energy; exuberance.
Example: “Her ebullience was contagious, lifting everyone’s spirits.”
Ebullient (adjective)
Cheerful and full of energy.
Example: “The ebullient crowd cheered for the performers.”
Eclectic (adjective)
Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
Example: “Her eclectic taste in music includes jazz, classical, and rock.”
Effervescent (adjective)
Vivacious and enthusiastic.
Example: “Her effervescent spirit lifted everyone’s mood.”
Egalitarian (adjective)
Believing in or based on the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.
Example: “They advocated for an egalitarian society.”
Egregious (adjective)
Outstandingly bad; shocking.
Example: “His egregious mistake cost the company millions.”
Eloquent (adjective)
Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
Example: “His eloquent speech moved the audience.”
Empirical (adjective)
Based on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.
Example: “The scientist relied on empirical data to support the hypothesis.”
Emulate (verb)
To match or surpass, typically by imitation.
Example: “She tried to emulate her mentor’s success.”
Enervate (verb)
To cause someone to feel drained of energy; to weaken.
Example: “The oppressive heat enervated everyone.”
Enigma (noun)
A person or thing that is mysterious or difficult to understand.
Example: “His sudden disappearance was an enigma.”
Enigmatic (adjective)
Difficult to interpret or understand; mysterious.
Example: “She gave him an enigmatic smile.”
Ennui (noun)
A feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement.
Example: “She was filled with ennui during the long, boring summer.”
Ephemeral (adjective)
Lasting for a very short time.
Example: “The ephemeral beauty of a rainbow enchanted us.”
Epitome (noun)
A person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.
Example: “She is the epitome of grace and elegance.”
Erudite (adjective)
Having or showing great knowledge or learning.
Example: “The erudite scholar could speak on many subjects.”
Esoteric (adjective)
Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge.
Example: “The philosopher’s writings were esoteric and complex.”
Ethereal (adjective)
Extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world.
Example: “The dancer moved with ethereal grace.”
F
Facetious (adjective)
Treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor.
Example: “His facetious remarks were not appreciated during the meeting.”
Facilitate (verb)
To make an action or process easy or easier.
Example: “Technology can facilitate communication across long distances.”
Fallacious (adjective)
Based on a mistaken belief.
Example: “His argument was fallacious and easily refuted.”
Fastidious (adjective)
Very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail.
Example: “She was fastidious about her appearance.”
Fathom (verb)
To understand after much thought.
Example: “He couldn’t fathom why she had left so suddenly.”
Felicity (noun)
Intense happiness; the ability to find appropriate expression for one’s thoughts.
Example: “He expressed his ideas with great felicity.”
Fervent (adjective)
Having or displaying a passionate intensity.
Example: “He was a fervent supporter of environmental conservation.”
Fickle (adjective)
Changing frequently, especially as regards one’s loyalties or affections.
Example: “Public opinion on the matter was fickle.”
Fidelity (noun)
Faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support.
Example: “Her fidelity to the cause was unwavering.”
Fortitude (noun)
Courage in pain or adversity.
Example: “She showed fortitude during the difficult times.”
Fortuitous (adjective)
Happening by a lucky chance; fortunate.
Example: “Their meeting was entirely fortuitous.”
Frugal (adjective)
Sparing or economical with regard to money or food.
Example: “They lived a frugal life without excess.”
Furtive (adjective)
Attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive.
Example: “They exchanged furtive glances across the room.”
G
Galvanize (verb)
To shock or excite someone into taking action.
Example: “The urgent speech galvanized the crowd into protesting.”
Garrulous (adjective)
Excessively talkative, especially on trivial matters.
Example: “The garrulous neighbor kept me up all night with his stories.”
Gauche (adjective)
Lacking ease or grace; unsophisticated and socially awkward.
Example: “His gauche manners were noticed at the formal dinner.”
Genteel (adjective)
Polite, refined, or respectable, often in an affected way.
Example: “They enjoyed a genteel afternoon of tea and conversation.”
Glib (adjective)
Fluent and voluble but insincere and shallow.
Example: “His glib remarks failed to impress the audience.”
Goad (verb)
To provoke or annoy someone so as to stimulate a reaction.
Example: “He was goaded into replying angrily.”
Grandiloquent (adjective)
Pompous or extravagant in language or style.
Example: “His grandiloquent speeches were more amusing than inspiring.”
Grandiose (adjective)
Impressive or magnificent in appearance or style, especially pretentiously so.
Example: “The palace was grandiose and lavishly decorated.”
Gratuitous (adjective)
Uncalled for; lacking good reason; unwarranted.
Example: “The film was criticized for its gratuitous violence.”
Gregarious (adjective)
Fond of company; sociable.
Example: “He was a popular and gregarious man.”
Guile (noun)
Sly or cunning intelligence.
Example: “He used guile to outsmart his opponents.”
H
Hackneyed (adjective)
Lacking significance through having been overused; unoriginal.
Example: “The film’s plot was hackneyed and predictable.”
Hapless (adjective)
Unfortunate; having bad luck.
Example: “The hapless travelers lost their luggage.”
Harangue (noun)
A lengthy and aggressive speech.
Example: “The politician’s harangue failed to sway the audience.”
Harbinger (noun)
A person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another.
Example: “The blooming flowers are a harbinger of spring.”
Haughty (adjective)
Arrogantly superior and disdainful.
Example: “Her haughty demeanor alienated others.”
Heed (verb)
To pay attention to; take notice of.
Example: “They failed to heed the warning signs.”
Heinous (adjective)
Utterly odious or wicked.
Example: “The criminal was punished for his heinous crimes.”
Heuristic (adjective)
Enabling someone to discover or learn something for themselves.
Example: “The teacher’s heuristic approach encouraged critical thinking.”
Hinder (verb)
To create difficulties resulting in delay or obstruction.
Example: “Roadworks may hinder traffic flow.”
Hindrance (noun)
A thing that provides resistance, delay, or obstruction to something or someone.
Example: “Lack of funding was a hindrance to the project.”
Histrionic (adjective)
Overly theatrical or melodramatic in character or style.
Example: “Her histrionic reaction was unexpected.”
Hubris (noun)
Excessive pride or self-confidence.
Example: “His downfall was due to his hubris.”
Hypocrisy (noun)
The practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one’s own behavior does not conform.
Example: “He was accused of hypocrisy for preaching tolerance while behaving intolerantly.”
Hypothetical (adjective)
Based on or serving as a hypothesis.
Example: “This is a hypothetical scenario.”
I
Iconoclast (noun)
A person who attacks cherished beliefs or institutions.
Example: “As an iconoclast, he challenged the established traditions.”
Idiosyncrasy (noun)
A mode of behavior or way of thought peculiar to an individual.
Example: “One of his idiosyncrasies was humming while he worked.”
Immaculate (adjective)
Perfectly clean, neat, or tidy.
Example: “She kept her house in immaculate condition.”
Imminent (adjective)
About to happen.
Example: “They were in imminent danger of being swept away.”
Immutable (adjective)
Unchanging over time.
Example: “Physical laws are considered immutable.”
Impeccable (adjective)
In accordance with the highest standards; faultless.
Example: “Her performance was impeccable.”
Impecunious (adjective)
Having little or no money.
Example: “The impecunious artist struggled to afford supplies.”
Impertinent (adjective)
Not showing proper respect; rude.
Example: “The student’s impertinent question startled the teacher.”
Impetuous (adjective)
Acting or done quickly without thought or care.
Example: “His impetuous decision led to unforeseen consequences.”
Implacable (adjective)
Unable to be placated; relentless.
Example: “Despite apologies, she remained implacable in her resentment.”
Inane (adjective)
Silly; stupid.
Example: “They laughed at the inane joke.”
Incongruous (adjective)
Not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects of something.
Example: “The modern sculpture was incongruous in the ancient building.”
Indelible (adjective)
Not able to be forgotten or removed.
Example: “The experience left an indelible impression on her.”
Ineffable (adjective)
Too great or extreme to be expressed in words.
Example: “The beauty of the sunset was ineffable.”
Inept (adjective)
Having or showing no skill; clumsy.
Example: “His inept handling of the situation worsened the problem.”
Inimical (adjective)
Tending to obstruct or harm; unfriendly or hostile.
Example: “Their actions were inimical to our interests.”
Innocuous (adjective)
Not harmful or offensive.
Example: “The comment was meant to be innocuous.”
Innuendo (noun)
An allusive or oblique remark or hint, typically a suggestive or disparaging one.
Example: “The article was full of sexual innuendo.”
Insidious (adjective)
Proceeding in a gradual way but with harmful effects.
Example: “The disease was insidious.”
Irascible (adjective)
Having a tendency to be easily angered.
Example: “The irascible coach shouted at the players.”
J
Jaded (adjective)
Tired, bored, or lacking enthusiasm, typically after having had too much of something.
Example: “After years in the industry, he became jaded.”
Jettison (verb)
To discard something as unwanted or burdensome.
Example: “They had to jettison unnecessary weight from the balloon.”
Jocular (adjective)
Fond of or characterized by joking; humorous or playful.
Example: “His jocular remarks lightened the mood of the meeting.”
Jubilant (adjective)
Feeling or expressing great happiness and triumph.
Example: “The team was jubilant after their victory.”
Judicious (adjective)
Having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense.
Example: “She made a judicious decision to invest in the company.”
Juxtapose (verb)
To place close together for contrasting effect.
Example: “The artist chose to juxtapose light and dark colors.”
Juxtaposition (noun)
The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
Example: “The juxtaposition of the old and new buildings was striking.”
K
Kafkaesque (adjective)
Characteristic of the oppressive or nightmarish qualities of Franz Kafka’s fictional world.
Example: “The endless bureaucracy was a Kafkaesque ordeal.”
Keen (adjective)
Having or showing eagerness or enthusiasm.
Example: “He was keen to start his new job.”
Kindle (verb)
To arouse or inspire an emotion or feeling.
Example: “The teacher’s enthusiasm kindled a love of learning in her students.”
Kindred (adjective)
Similar in kind; related.
Example: “They were drawn together by kindred interests.”
Kinetic (adjective)
Relating to or resulting from motion.
Example: “The kinetic energy of the moving car was tremendous.”
Kismet (noun)
Destiny; fate.
Example: “It seemed like kismet that they met on that day.”
Knave (noun)
A dishonest or unscrupulous man.
Example: “The knave tried to swindle the travelers out of their money.”
Knavish (adjective)
Dishonest or unscrupulous.
Example: “He played a knavish trick on his friends.”
Knell (noun)
The sound of a bell, especially when rung solemnly for a death or funeral.
Example: “The knell echoed through the village, signaling the passing of the elder.”
Kudos (noun)
Praise and honor received for an achievement.
Example: “She received kudos for her excellent performance.”
L
Lackadaisical (adjective)
Lacking enthusiasm and determination; carelessly lazy.
Example: “Her lackadaisical attitude affected the team’s performance.”
Laconic (adjective)
Using very few words; concise.
Example: “His laconic reply indicated he was not interested.”
Lament (verb)
To mourn or express sorrow.
Example: “They lamented the loss of their friend.”
Languid (adjective)
Displaying a disinclination for physical exertion; slow and relaxed.
Example: “They spent a languid afternoon lounging by the pool.”
Languish (verb)
To lose or lack vitality; grow weak.
Example: “Plants may languish if not properly cared for.”
Laudable (adjective)
Deserving praise and commendation.
Example: “Her efforts to help the homeless are laudable.”
Lethargic (adjective)
Affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic.
Example: “After the long journey, he felt lethargic.”
Lithe (adjective)
Thin, supple, and graceful.
Example: “The gymnast’s lithe movements impressed the judges.”
Loquacious (adjective)
Tending to talk a great deal; talkative.
Example: “Her loquacious nature made her a great storyteller.”
Lucid (adjective)
Expressed clearly; easy to understand.
Example: “His writing is lucid and accessible.”
Lugubrious (adjective)
Looking or sounding sad and dismal.
Example: “His lugubrious expression revealed his disappointment.”
Luminous (adjective)
Full of or shedding light; bright or shining.
Example: “The luminous stars lit up the night sky.”
Lurid (adjective)
Very vivid in color, especially so as to create an unpleasantly harsh or unnatural effect.
Example: “The lurid headlines grabbed the readers’ attention.”
M
Machination (noun)
A plot or scheme.
Example: “They uncovered the machinations behind the political scandal.”
Magnanimous (adjective)
Generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or less powerful person.
Example: “He was magnanimous in victory.”
Malaise (noun)
A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease whose exact cause is difficult to identify.
Example: “The economic malaise affected businesses across the country.”
Malevolent (adjective)
Having or showing a wish to do evil to others.
Example: “She gave him a malevolent glare.”
Malleable (adjective)
Easily influenced; pliable.
Example: “Gold is a malleable metal that can be shaped into jewelry.”
Maudlin (adjective)
Self-pityingly or tearfully sentimental.
Example: “He became maudlin after drinking too much wine.”
Maverick (noun)
An independent-minded person; nonconformist.
Example: “He was considered a maverick for his unconventional ideas.”
Mellifluous (adjective)
Sweet or musical; pleasant to hear.
Example: “Her mellifluous voice captivated the audience.”
Mercurial (adjective)
Subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind.
Example: “Her mercurial temperament made her unpredictable.”
Meticulous (adjective)
Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
Example: “She was meticulous in recording the data.”
Mitigate (verb)
To make less severe, serious, or painful.
Example: “They took steps to mitigate the risks involved.”
Mollify (verb)
To appease the anger or anxiety of someone.
Example: “He tried to mollify his critics with a sincere apology.”
Mundane (adjective)
Lacking interest or excitement; dull.
Example: “He longed to escape his mundane routine.”
Munificent (adjective)
Larger or more generous than is usual or necessary.
Example: “The philanthropist made a munificent donation.”
Myriad (noun)
A countless or extremely great number.
Example: “They faced a myriad of challenges.”
N
Nadir (noun)
The lowest point in the fortunes of a person or organization.
Example: “The company’s sales reached their nadir last year.”
Nascent (adjective)
Just coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potential.
Example: “The nascent company showed great promise.”
Nebulous (adjective)
Unclear, vague, or ill-defined; hazy.
Example: “Her ideas were still nebulous and not fully formed.”
Nefarious (adjective)
Wicked or criminal.
Example: “The nefarious activities of the organization were exposed.”
Nexus (noun)
A connection or series of connections linking two or more things.
Example: “The library serves as a nexus of knowledge and community.”
Nonchalant (adjective)
Feeling or appearing casually calm and relaxed; not displaying anxiety or enthusiasm.
Example: “She gave a nonchalant shrug and walked away.”
Nondescript (adjective)
Lacking distinctive or interesting features or characteristics.
Example: “He lived in a nondescript apartment building.”
Nonplussed (adjective)
Surprised and confused.
Example: “She was nonplussed by the unexpected question.”
Nostalgia (noun)
A sentimental longing for the past.
Example: “He was filled with nostalgia for his college days.”
Noxious (adjective)
Harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant.
Example: “The factory emitted noxious gases.”
Nuance (noun)
A subtle difference in meaning or opinion.
Example: “Understanding the nuances of the language is essential.”
O
Obdurate (adjective)
Stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action.
Example: “Despite the evidence, he remained obdurate.”
Obfuscate (verb)
To render obscure, unclear, or unintelligible.
Example: “The report was written in a way that obfuscated the main issues.”
Oblique (adjective)
Not explicit or direct in addressing a point.
Example: “He made an oblique reference to the past incident.”
Oblivious (adjective)
Not aware of or not concerned about what is happening around one.
Example: “She was oblivious to the commotion outside.”
Obsequious (adjective)
Obedient or attentive to an excessive or servile degree.
Example: “The waiter’s obsequious manner was off-putting.”
Obsolete (adjective)
No longer produced or used; out of date.
Example: “The company phased out the obsolete technology.”
Obstinate (adjective)
Stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or chosen course of action.
Example: “He remained obstinate despite the evidence against his theory.”
Obstreperous (adjective)
Noisy and difficult to control.
Example: “The obstreperous crowd demanded immediate answers.”
Omnipotent (adjective)
Having unlimited power; able to do anything.
Example: “In mythology, gods are often depicted as omnipotent beings.”
Opulent (adjective)
Ostentatiously rich and luxurious.
Example: “They lived in an opulent mansion.”
Ostensible (adjective)
Stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.
Example: “The ostensible reason for his absence was illness.”
Ostentatious (adjective)
Characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress.
Example: “They lived in an ostentatious mansion.”
Ostracize (verb)
To exclude someone from a society or group.
Example: “He was ostracized by the community for his actions.”
P
Palpable (adjective)
So intense as to seem almost tangible; perceptible.
Example: “There was a palpable sense of tension in the room.”
Panacea (noun)
A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases.
Example: “There is no panacea for the world’s problems.”
Paragon (noun)
A person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality.
Example: “She is a paragon of virtue.”
Pariah (noun)
An outcast.
Example: “After the scandal, he became a pariah in the community.”
Pedantic (adjective)
Excessively concerned with minor details or rules; overscrupulous.
Example: “His pedantic attention to detail sometimes slowed down the project.”
Penchant (noun)
A strong or habitual liking for something or tendency to do something.
Example: “He has a penchant for collecting rare books.”
Pensive (adjective)
Engaged in deep or serious thought.
Example: “She sat by the window with a pensive expression.”
Perfidious (adjective)
Deceitful and untrustworthy.
Example: “His perfidious actions destroyed their trust.”
Perfunctory (adjective)
Carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection.
Example: “She gave a perfunctory nod and continued on her way.”
Plausible (adjective)
Seeming reasonable or probable.
Example: “Her explanation was plausible.”
Pragmatic (adjective)
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically.
Example: “She took a pragmatic approach to problem-solving.”
Precocious (adjective)
Having developed certain abilities at an earlier age than usual.
Example: “The precocious child could read before she was four.”
Prolific (adjective)
Producing much fruit or foliage or many offspring; producing abundant works or results.
Example: “She was a prolific writer, publishing dozens of novels.”
Prudent (adjective)
Acting with or showing care for the future.
Example: “It’s prudent to save money for emergencies.”
Q
Quagmire (noun)
A difficult or precarious situation; a predicament.
Example: “They found themselves in a legal quagmire.”
Quandary (noun)
A state of perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation.
Example: “She was in a quandary about whether to accept the job.”
Quell (verb)
To put an end to (a rebellion or other disorder), typically by the use of force.
Example: “Authorities tried to quell the unrest.”
Querulous (adjective)
Complaining in a petulant or whining manner.
Example: “The querulous customer demanded a refund.”
Quiescent (adjective)
In a state or period of inactivity or dormancy.
Example: “The volcano has been quiescent for years.”
Quintessence (noun)
The most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
Example: “He was the quintessence of a gentleman.”
Quintessential (adjective)
Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
Example: “He is the quintessential gentleman.”
Quixotic (adjective)
Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical.
Example: “His quixotic quest for world peace was admirable but naive.”
R
Raconteur (noun)
A person skilled at telling stories or anecdotes.
Example: “The raconteur captivated the audience with his tales.”
Ramification (noun)
A consequence of an action or event, especially when complex or unwelcome.
Example: “They considered the legal ramifications before proceeding.”
Rancor (noun)
Bitterness or resentfulness.
Example: “There was no rancor in his heart after the dispute.”
Ravenous (adjective)
Extremely hungry.
Example: “After the hike, they were ravenous.”
Recalcitrant (adjective)
Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline.
Example: “The recalcitrant student refused to follow the rules.”
Reciprocity (noun)
The practice of exchanging things for mutual benefit.
Example: “International relations are based on reciprocity.”
Renaissance (noun)
A revival of or renewed interest in something.
Example: “The city experienced a cultural renaissance.”
Renege (verb)
To go back on a promise or contract.
Example: “He reneged on his agreement to repay the loan.”
Rescind (verb)
To revoke, cancel, or repeal a law, order, or agreement.
Example: “The company decided to rescind the policy after employee backlash.”
Resilient (adjective)
Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
Example: “The resilient community rebuilt after the disaster.”
Reticent (adjective)
Not revealing one’s thoughts or feelings readily.
Example: “She was reticent about her plans for the future.”
Reverence (noun)
Deep respect for someone or something.
Example: “They spoke of their teacher with reverence.”
Reverent (adjective)
Feeling or showing deep and solemn respect.
Example: “The audience was reverent during the ceremony.”
Reverie (noun)
A state of being pleasantly lost in one’s thoughts; a daydream.
Example: “He was jolted out of his reverie by the phone ringing.”
Ruminate (verb)
To think deeply about something.
Example: “She ruminated on the implications of the decision.”
S
Sacrosanct (adjective)
Regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with.
Example: “Freedom of speech is considered sacrosanct in a democracy.”
Sagacious (adjective)
Having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; wise.
Example: “Her sagacious advice was invaluable.”
Salient (adjective)
Most noticeable or important.
Example: “She summarized the salient points of the report.”
Sanguine (adjective)
Optimistic or positive, especially in a bad situation.
Example: “Despite the challenges, he remained sanguine about the outcome.”
Scrupulous (adjective)
Diligent, thorough, and attentive to details.
Example: “Her scrupulous research earned her accolades.”
Scrutinize (verb)
To examine or inspect closely and thoroughly.
Example: “She scrutinized the document for errors.”
Serendipity (noun)
The occurrence of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
Example: “Finding the lost ring was pure serendipity.”
Staunch (adjective)
Loyal and committed in attitude.
Example: “She was a staunch supporter of the cause.”
Substantiate (verb)
To provide evidence to support or prove the truth of.
Example: “They could not substantiate the allegations.”
Superfluous (adjective)
Unnecessary, especially through being more than enough.
Example: “She cleared out superfluous items from her closet.”
Surreptitious (adjective)
Kept secret, especially because it would not be approved of.
Example: “They carried out a surreptitious investigation.”
Sycophant (noun)
A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
Example: “The office was full of sycophants trying to impress the boss.”
Synergy (noun)
The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations or substances to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
Example: “The merger created a synergy that boosted profits.”
T
Tacit (adjective)
Understood or implied without being stated.
Example: “They had a tacit agreement to share the profits.”
Taciturn (adjective)
Reserved or uncommunicative in speech; saying little.
Example: “Despite his taciturn nature, he was well-respected.”
Tawdry (adjective)
Showy but cheap and of poor quality.
Example: “The market was filled with tawdry souvenirs.”
Tenacious (adjective)
Tending to keep a firm hold of something; persistent.
Example: “Her tenacious spirit helped her overcome obstacles.”
Tenacity (noun)
The quality of being tenacious; persistence.
Example: “His tenacity led him to complete the marathon.”
Tenuous (adjective)
Very weak or slight; insubstantial.
Example: “The connection between the two events was tenuous at best.”
Terse (adjective)
Sparing in the use of words; abrupt.
Example: “His terse reply indicated that he was annoyed.”
Transcend (verb)
To go beyond the range or limits of something abstract, typically a conceptual field or division.
Example: “Her performance transcended all expectations.”
Transient (adjective)
Lasting only for a short time; impermanent.
Example: “Their happiness was transient.”
Transitory (adjective)
Not permanent.
Example: “Their happiness was transitory.”
Trepidation (noun)
A feeling of fear or agitation about something that may happen.
Example: “He approached the stage with trepidation.”
Truculent (adjective)
Eager or quick to argue or fight; aggressively defiant.
Example: “His truculent attitude made negotiations difficult.”
Truncate (verb)
To shorten by cutting off.
Example: “The article was truncated for space.”
U
Ubiquitous (adjective)
Present, appearing, or found everywhere.
Example: “Internet access has become ubiquitous in modern society.”
Umbrage (noun)
Offense or annoyance.
Example: “She took umbrage at his remarks.”
Uncanny (adjective)
Strange or mysterious, especially in an unsettling way.
Example: “She had an uncanny ability to predict the weather.”
Unctuous (adjective)
Excessively flattering; oily.
Example: “His unctuous demeanor made her distrust him.”
Undulate (verb)
Move or go with a smooth up-and-down motion.
Example: “The fields of wheat undulated in the breeze.”
Unfathomable (adjective)
Incapable of being fully explored or understood.
Example: “The mysteries of the universe are unfathomable.”
Unfettered (adjective)
Released from restraint or inhibition.
Example: “She enjoyed unfettered access to the archives.”
Unilateral (adjective)
Performed by or affecting only one person, group, or country involved in a situation, without the agreement of others.
Example: “They made a unilateral decision to proceed.”
Untenable (adjective)
Not able to be maintained or defended against attack or objection.
Example: “The theory was untenable in light of new evidence.”
Usurp (verb)
To take a position of power illegally or by force.
Example: “He tried to usurp the throne.”
Utopia (noun)
An imagined place where everything is perfect.
Example: “They dreamed of creating a utopia free from conflict.”
Utopian (adjective)
Modeled on or aiming for a state in which everything is perfect; idealistic.
Example: “They dreamed of creating a utopian society.”
V
Vacillate (verb)
To waver between different opinions or actions; be indecisive.
Example: “She vacillated between studying law or medicine.”
Vacuous (adjective)
Having or showing a lack of thought or intelligence; mindless.
Example: “Her vacuous smile revealed her disinterest.”
Vapid (adjective)
Offering nothing that is stimulating or challenging; bland.
Example: “The conversation was vapid and uninspiring.”
Vehement (adjective)
Showing strong feeling; forceful, passionate, or intense.
Example: “She was a vehement advocate for animal rights.”
Venerable (adjective)
Accorded a great deal of respect, especially because of age, wisdom, or character.
Example: “The venerable professor was admired by all.”
Venerate (verb)
To regard with great respect; revere.
Example: “They venerate their cultural traditions.”
Veracity (noun)
Conformity to facts; accuracy; truthfulness.
Example: “They questioned the veracity of his claims.”
Verbose (adjective)
Using or expressed in more words than are needed.
Example: “His verbose speech lost the audience’s attention.”
Vestige (noun)
A trace of something that is disappearing or no longer exists.
Example: “The ruins are the last vestiges of an ancient civilization.”
Vex (verb)
To make someone feel annoyed or frustrated.
Example: “The constant delays began to vex the passengers.”
Vicarious (adjective)
Experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of another person.
Example: “He lived vicariously through his son’s achievements.”
Vicissitude (noun)
A change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant.
Example: “They remained friends through the vicissitudes of life.”
Vindicate (verb)
To clear of blame or suspicion.
Example: “New evidence vindicated the accused.”
Vociferous (adjective)
Expressing or characterized by vehement opinions; loud and forceful.
Example: “The vociferous crowd demanded answers.”
Voracious (adjective)
Wanting or devouring great quantities of food; having a very eager approach to an activity.
Example: “She was a voracious reader.”
W
Wane (verb)
To decrease in size, extent, or degree; to dwindle.
Example: “Interest in the project began to wane after initial excitement.”
Wary (adjective)
Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.
Example: “She was wary of strangers.”
Whimsical (adjective)
Playfully quaint or fanciful, especially in an appealing way.
Example: “The whimsical illustrations delighted the children.”
Wily (adjective)
Skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully.
Example: “The wily fox evaded capture.”
Winsome (adjective)
Attractive or appealing in appearance or character.
Example: “Her winsome smile charmed everyone she met.”
Wistful (adjective)
Having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.
Example: “She gave a wistful smile as she looked at the old photos.”
Wry (adjective)
Using or expressing dry, especially mocking, humor.
Example: “He gave a wry comment about the situation.”
X
Xenial (adjective)
Relating to hospitality between host and guest; friendly.
Example: “Their xenial customs made visitors feel welcome.”
Xenolith (noun)
A piece of rock within an igneous rock that is not derived from the original magma.
Example: “Geologists studied the xenoliths to understand the Earth’s crust.”
Xenophile (noun)
An individual attracted to foreign peoples, cultures, or customs.
Example: “As a xenophile, she loved traveling to new countries.”
Xenophobia (noun)
Dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries.
Example: “The organization works to combat xenophobia.”
Xenophobic (adjective)
Having a dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries.
Example: “Xenophobic attitudes harm societal cohesion.”
Xeric (adjective)
Characterized by or adapted to a dry environment.
Example: “Cacti thrive in xeric conditions.”
Y
Yearn (verb)
To have an intense feeling of longing for something.
Example: “She yearned to see the world.”
Yearning (noun)
A feeling of intense longing for something.
Example: “He felt a yearning to return to his hometown.”
Yen (noun)
A longing or yearning.
Example: “He had a yen for adventure.”
Yield (verb)
To produce or provide; to give way under pressure.
Example: “The farm yields enough crops to feed the family.”
Yielding (adjective)
Inclined to give way to pressure, arguments, or influence.
Example: “Her yielding nature made her a favorite among her peers.”
Yoke (verb)
To join together; to couple or connect.
Example: “They yoked the oxen to the plow.”
Yore (noun)
Time long past.
Example: “Legends of yore tell of heroes and dragons.”
Z
Zany (adjective)
Amusingly unconventional and idiosyncratic.
Example: “His zany antics made everyone laugh.”
Zeal (noun)
Great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective.
Example: “He approached his new job with zeal.”
Zealot (noun)
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their ideals.
Example: “The zealot refused to consider alternative viewpoints.”
Zealous (adjective)
Having or showing zeal; passionate.
Example: “He was zealous in his pursuit of justice.”
Zenith (noun)
The time at which something is most powerful or successful.
Example: “At the zenith of his career, he decided to retire.”
Zephyr (noun)
A soft gentle breeze.
Example: “A zephyr cooled them on the warm afternoon.”
Zest (noun)
Great enthusiasm and energy.
Example: “She tackled the project with zest.”