Vocabulary Words World Literature Week 11

Nondescript Betty’s friends were surprised by her quirky new outfit as she usually wears nondescript clothes.

Nondescript Definition: adj.—ordinary, not outstanding Synonym: unremarkable, dull, commonplace Antonym: special

Rescind During the recent gasoline crisis, many voters urged the Governor to rescind the sales tax on gas to provide consumers relief from high prices.

Rescind Definition: v.—to repeal, cancel Synonym: withdraw, annul, overturn Antonym: authorize

Abrasive Susan’s doctor warned her to avoid abrasive soap that would aggravate her sensitive skin.

Abrasive Synonym: rough, coarse, scratchy Antonym: smooth Definition: adj.—causing irritation, harsh Synonym: rough, coarse, scratchy Antonym: smooth

Complacent Mark was very careful to not become complacent about his good grades and he continued to study to maintain his high average.

Complacent Definition: adj.—self-satisfied; overly content Synonym: smug, self-righteous, Antonym: anxious

Fracas Jimmy thought the fracas on the ball field was caused by the frustration of the losing team.

Fracas Definition: n.—a noisy quarrel or brawl Synonym: fight, melee, argument, scuffle Antonym: calm

Raucous The substitute teacher had to send several students to the principal’s office after the raucous class refused to behave.

Raucous Definition: adj.—disorderly Synonym: wild, loud, boisterous, unruly Antonym: subdued

Reticent Our teacher discovered that Jay ‘s fear of stuttering was the reason he was so reticent in class.

Reticent Definition: adj.—not inclined to speak; reserved Synonym: discreet, quiet, silent, restrained Antonym: talkative

Vehement Roger Clemens has vehemently denied all allegations of steroid use and still lashes out at his accusers.

Vehement Definition: adj.—intense, forceful, powerful Synonym: fervent, passionate, heated Antonym: apathetic

Retribution The jury felt that life in prison was an appropriate retribution for the defendant’s crimes.

Retribution Definition: n.—punishment Synonym: revenge, payback, reprisal Antonym: reward

Pivotal Most political pundits believe that the key to the presidential election is winning in the pivotal state of Ohio.

Pivotal Definition: adj.—crucial; vitally important Synonym: essential, key, central Antonym: unimportant