1,015 Post-Graduate Level Words
The following is a 1,015-word list of post-graduate level literary and social science vocabulary words and definitions gathered from the writing of the greatest authors from around the world in those and related fields. The list does not include professional jargon. Selected words are rich with meaning and exceptionally expressive. Non-English words have been omitted, aside from those acceptably used in English conversation and writing.
If it is your wish, this list will enhance your capacity to receive and give these gifts of understanding that will bring a better future into focus.
Collate - examine and compare in order to verify authenticity or establish the origin or authorship of
Danse Macabre - a medieval dance in which a skeleton represents Death leading a procession of figures to their graves
Condone - forgive or disregard (a fault or offense)
Anathema - a person or thing detested or loathed
Elegy - a mournful poem, especially one lamenting the death of a person
Boisterous - noisy and full of energy, especially in a rough or uncontrolled way
Degenerate - become worse in quality or character
Presumptuous - excessively forward; presuming
Vitiate - reduce or weaken the quality or effectiveness of
Goad - prod or urge (someone) to action
Specious - superficially plausible, but actually wrong
Transphobia - a fear or hatred of transgender or non-binary individuals.
Realism - a literary and artistic movement that seeks to depict life as it is, rather than idealizing or romanticizing it
Forbear - abstain from doing or using something
Sumptuous - lavish and expensive
Reflexive - relating to the process of reflecting on or thinking about oneself and one's own experiences
Parity - the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities
Truncate - shorten (something) by cutting off the top or the end
Mitigate - make (something) less severe, serious, or painful
Irrefutable - incapable of being disputed or denied
Malingerer - a person who feigns illness to escape duty
Tenacious - holding fast; persistent
Converge - come together from different directions and meet at a point
Allusion - A reference to a person, place, or event from literature, history, or myth.
Forlorn - sad and lonely because abandoned or isolated
Adumbrate - describe or indicate something briefly or partially
Conciliatory - intended to placate or pacify
Efficacious - effective in producing a desired or intended result
False consciousness - a belief that is contrary to one's own economic or social interests
Stratum - a layer of rock or earth
Unwavering - steady and constant; not changing or fluctuating
Laud - praise highly
Edict - a formal or authoritative proclamation
Antithesis - the direct opposite of something
Idiosyncrasy - a characteristic peculiar to an individual
Clamor - a loud and persistent noise, especially of a crowd of people shouting
Ungainly - awkward and clumsy in movement or appearance
Plenitude - a state of abundance or fullness
Garrulous - excessively talkative, especially on trivial matters
Phenomenology - The study of subjective experience.
Gainsay - deny or contradict (something)
Cavil - make petty or unnecessary objections
Fracas - a noisy, violent public disturbance
Mischievous - causing mischief or trouble in a playful way
Encomium - a formal expression of praise
Metonymy - the use of a word to represent something else that is closely associated with it, such as using "crown" to refer to a monarch.
Flourish - to thrive or prosper
Anecdote - a short and amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person
Unwonted - unusual or unexpected
Lethargy - a state of being drowsy or sluggish
Imbue - inspire or influence deeply
Forensic - relating to or used in the investigation and establishment of facts or evidence in a court of law
Autocracy - a system of government by a single person with absolute power
Utopia - a fictional society characterized by perfect harmony, equality, and happiness.
Obtuse - lacking sharpness or quickness in understanding
Incorporeal - not having a physical body
Poststructuralism - a theoretical approach that challenges the idea of fixed meanings and the role of power in shaping knowledge and society.
Semiotics - The study of signs and symbols.
Abstemious - sparing or moderate in eating and drinking
Inane - lacking sense or significance
Exemplar - a person or thing that serves as an example or model
Sustainable - able to be maintained or preserved over a long period of time
Fetishism - the attribution of religious or spiritual powers to objects or practices
Paragon - a person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality
Postcolonial - relating to the political and cultural independence of a country or region previously controlled by colonialism.
Antipathy - a deep-seated feeling of dislike
Immutable - not able to be changed or altered
Palindrome - A word or phrase that reads the same forward and backward.
Sinecure - a job or position that requires little or no work but provides a salary or other benefits
Resonate - to have a strong emotional or personal significance or connection
Communist - An economic system in which the means of production are owned by the community as a whole and resources are distributed according to need.
Rabble - a disorganized or motley crowd of people
Blandish - use flattery or coaxing in order to persuade
Riveting - intensely interesting or engrossing
Emaciate - make (someone) extremely thin, especially as a result of illness or hardship
Iconoclasm - the action or practice of attacking or rejecting longstanding customs, institutions, or beliefs
Luminous - giving off light or glowing
Concatenate - link (things) together in a series or chain
Debilitate - weaken or destroy the strength or vitality of
Adjudicate - make a formal judgment on a disputed matter
Palpable - able to be touched or felt; tangible
Ideology - a set of beliefs or principles that guide actions or thinking
Tenebrous - dark and gloomy
Emulate - strive to equal or excel
Confluence - the place where two rivers flow together
Impudent - improperly forward or bold; insolent
Fatalistic - believing that everything is predetermined and inevitable, and therefore powerless to change
Rival - a person or thing competing with another for the same objective or for superiority in the same field of activity
Existentialism - A philosophy that emphasizes individual freedom and choice in the face of an uncertain and meaningless world.
Converse - communicate by speaking or writing
Perfunctory - done in a routine or superficial way, without care or interest
Lavish - giving or producing something in generous or abundant quantities
Bombinate - make a low, continuous humming or buzzing sound
Grisly - causing horror or disgust; gruesome
Conflate - combine or merge together
Plethora - a large or excessive amount of something
Neofascism - a form of far-right, authoritarian nationalism characterized by xenophobia, authoritarianism, and anti-Semitism.
Judicious - showing good judgment; sensible
Placid - calm and peaceful
Venerate - to respect or honor deeply
Inculcate - impress (an idea or habit) upon the mind through repetition or persistent urging
Ineffable - too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words
Discursive - tending to wander from the main point
Ponderous - slow, heavy, and awkward
Oration - a formal speech, especially one given on a ceremonial occasion
Credulity - a tendency to believe too readily; gullibility
Dearth - a scarcity or lack of something
Propagate - cause (something, especially an idea, belief, or practice) to spread or be transmitted
Bourgeoisie - the social class of the owners of capital and the means of production
Rhetoric - the art of effective or persuasive communication, especially through the use of language
Thwart - prevent (something) from happening or being achieved
Wince - flinch or shrink back with pain, shock, or embarrassment
Afrocentrism - a perspective that centers the experiences and history of people of African descent.
Intertextuality - the relationship between texts, including the way they influence and reference each other.
Laudable - deserving praise; praiseworthy
Retrospective - looking back on or dealing with past events
Cognate - having a common origin or connection
Mellifluous - (of a voice or words) sweetly or smoothly flowing
Phylogeny - the evolution and relationships of a group of organisms, often used in the study of evolution and taxonomy.
Altruism - the belief in the importance of selflessly helping and serving others.
Mutable - likely to change; not fixed or permanent
Catharsis - the purging of emotions or feelings, often through artistic expression or tragedy.
Homonormativity - the acceptance and promotion of a narrow, mainstream version of LGBTQ+ identity that conforms to mainstream values and reinforces the dominant social hierarchy.
Resplendent - shining brightly; radiant
Coalesce - come together and form one mass or whole
Oblique - indirect or subtle
Debacle - a sudden and ignominious failure; a complete collapse
Hubris - excessive pride or self-confidence
Gesticulate - to use gestures or body language for emphasis in speaking or writing
Aporia - a difficulty or puzzle in understanding or explaining something
Lenient - mild and forgiving; not strict or severe
Pragmatic - practical rather than idealistic
Euphoria - a feeling of great happiness or well-being
Conjugal - relating to marriage or the relationship between a husband and wife
Monopoly - The exclusive control of a market by a single company or entity.
Superfluous - more than is needed, desired, or required
Skittish - easily frightened or agitated; nervous
Mettle - the quality of endurance and determination
Praxis - the application of theory to practice
Nettle - irritate or annoy
Gossamer - something very light, delicate, or insubstantial
Penury - extreme poverty; destitution
Parody - a humorous imitation of a work or style, often used to mock or satirize the original.
Arduous - requiring a lot of effort and hard work
Pandemic - prevalent over a whole country or the world
Vicissitude - a change or variation occurring in the course of something
Allure - attract or tempt by something desirable
Euphony - The pleasant sound of words or phrases when spoken or written.
Perpetrate - commit (a crime or wrongdoing)
Intrepid - fearless and brave
Protract - prolong or delay (something) unnecessarily
Ebullience - the quality of being full of excitement and enthusiasm
Transient - lasting only for a short time; temporary
Saunter - walk leisurely and with no apparent aim
Trepidation - a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that is going to happen
Concerto - A musical composition for a solo instrument accompanied by an orchestra.
Heinous - (of a crime) heinous; very wicked
Conspicuous - attracting attention, especially because of being unusual or notable
Hamper - prevent or restrict the progress or free movement of
Egregious - particularly bad or offensive
Malevolence - the desire to do harm to others
Resolve - come to a definite or earnest decision about
Desecrate - treat (something sacred) with violence, disrespect, or irreverence
Ingenuous - innocent and unsuspecting; candid
Incumbent - necessary for (someone) as a duty or responsibility
Mercurial - changeable or unpredictable in mood or behavior
Laconic - using very few words; terse
Pedantic - overly concerned with minute details or formalisms, especially in teaching
Plutocracy - a society governed by the wealthy
Hew - cut (something, especially wood or stone) with a tool such as an axe or chisel
Supplant - take the place of (something) by force or scheming
Stoic - accepting what happens without complaining or showing emotion
Pococurante - indifferent or unconcerned
Devolve - transfer or delegate (power or responsibility) to someone else
Benediction - a formal blessing, especially at the end of a religious service
Desuetude - a state of disuse or inactivity
Irony - a situation in which the outcome is the opposite of what was expected
Philistine - a person who is uncultured and has no interest in artistic or intellectual matters
Benign - kindly and gentle
Galvanize - stimulate (someone) into taking action
Subservient - submissive and obedient to someone
Bequeath - leave (something) to someone in one's will
Sonata - A musical composition for a solo instrument, usually a piano or violin.
Bonhomie - geniality; good-fellowship
Unfaltering - steady and determined; not wavering
Surplus value - the value produced by workers beyond what they are paid
Excoriate - criticize or reprimand severely
Undermine - weaken or weaken the effectiveness of (something)
Genteel - (of a person or their behavior) refined and well-mannered
Litotes - A figure of speech in which an affirmative is expressed by the negative of the contrary.
Cumbersome - large and heavy and therefore difficult to carry or use
Conciliate - bring (someone) to a state of agreement or harmony
Mawkish - sentimental in a feeble or sickly way; maudlin
Conundrum - a confusing and difficult problem or question
Theory of mind - the ability to understand that others have thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that differ from one's own
Contemptuous - showing or feeling disdain or contempt
Daunt - intimidate or discourage (someone)
Heteronormativity - the assumption that heterosexuality is the norm and that all people should conform to it.
Leery - suspicious or distrustful
Heterotopia - a place or space that exists outside of the normal order, often serving as a reflection or alternative to mainstream society.
Liaison - a connection or link between people or organizations
Detraction - the act of taking away the good reputation of someone or something; slander
Inure - accustom (someone) to something, especially something unpleasant
Droll - amusing in an odd or whimsical way
Orientalism - the depiction and portrayal of Asian and Middle Eastern cultures and people as exotic, backward, and inferior by Western societies.
Atheism - the belief that there is no God or higher power.
Enmity - hostility or animosity
Plaudit - a formal expression of praise
Perspicacious - having keen insight or understanding; mentally sharp
Aplomb - self-confidence or assurance, especially in difficult situations
Inimical - harmful or hostile
Avarice - excessive or insatiable desire for wealth or material gain
Extant - still in existence; surviving
Requite - repay or reward (something, especially a favor or service)
Logos - an appeal to logic or reason, often used to support an argument or claim.
Fortitude - strength of mind that enables a person to endure pain or adversity with courage
Effusive - expressing feelings or thoughts in a warm, emotional, or extravagant way
Malleable - able to be shaped or formed by hammering or pressing
Cauterize - burn or sear (a wound or tissue) with a hot iron or caustic agent, typically to stop bleeding or prevent infection
Alterity - the otherness or difference of something
Individuate - give individual form or character to
Itinerate - to travel from place to place, especially for work
Hyperbolic - using or characterized by exaggerated or extravagant language
Onerous - burdensome or oppressive
Aggrieve - cause (someone) to feel distressed or unhappy
Exigent - requiring immediate action or attention; pressing
Maelstrom - a powerful and chaotic situation
Obstinate - stubbornly refusing to change one's attitude or behavior
Narcissism - excessive or erotic interest in oneself and one's physical appearance
Concomitant - naturally accompanying or associated
Halcyon - calm and peaceful; idyllically happy and peaceful
Prescient - having knowledge of events before they take place; foresight
Enfranchise - grant the right to vote to
Deride - laugh at or make fun of (something or someone) contemptuously
Morose - sullen and ill-tempered
Mundane - of the world; earthly; not spiritual
Arrant - complete or thorough (used for emphasis)
Felicitous - well suited or appropriate; fortunate
Trite - lacking originality or freshness; overused and dull
Usurp - seize and hold (a position, especially a throne) by force or without legal right
Ubiquitous - present, appearing, or found everywhere
Aurora - a natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of streamers of reddish or greenish light in the sky, especially near the northern or southern magnetic pole
Wanton - reckless or malicious in disregard of the consequences
Cultural relativism - the idea that cultural practices and values should be understood and evaluated within the context of the culture in which they exist
Adulate - praise excessively or flatter
Dither - be indecisive or uncertain
Foment - stir up or incite (something, especially an undesirable feeling or situation)
Labile - prone to change or fluctuation
Nimble - quick and light in movement or action
Baleful - threatening or suggesting evil or harm
Expropriation - the act of taking something from someone without compensation
Jocular - humorous or joking
Synecdoche - the use of a part to represent the whole, such as using "wheels" to refer to a car.
Spurn - reject or refuse (something or someone) contemptuously
Imprecation - a curse or evil wish
Expurgate - censor (something, especially a book) by removing matter considered offensive, obscene, or politically unacceptable
Robust - strong and healthy; vigorous
Utilitarianism - a moral theory that holds that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility
Cisgender - a term used to describe someone whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Petulant - irritable or bad-tempered, especially over petty matters
Diatribe - a forceful and bitter verbal attack
Digress - wander from the main subject in speaking or writing; stray from the point
Flout - openly disregard (a rule, law, or convention)
Onomatopoeia - A word that imitates or suggests the sound it represents.
Binary - something made up of two parts or qualities
Cursory - done quickly and without attention to detail
Egotism - excessive or exaggerated self-importance
Pristine - in its original or unspoiled condition
Paucity - a small or insufficient quantity of something
Naive - lacking in experience, judgment, or information; gullible
Austere - severe or stern in appearance or manner
Assiduous - diligent and hard-working
Jejune - not interesting or worthwhile; insipid
Emancipate - set free from legal, social, or political restrictions
Emaciated - very thin, especially because of illness or starvation
Lumber - move heavily or clumsily
Anomaly - something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected
Consummate - perfect or complete in every respect; outstanding
Ballad - A poem or song that tells a story through simple, rhymed verse.
Synapse - a junction between two nerve cells, allowing for the transmission of electrical or chemical signals.
Insouciance - lack of concern or interest; nonchalance
Magnanimity - generosity and forbearance in forgiving
Voluble - tending to speak at great length; talkative
Onus - a burden or responsibility
Yokel - a person who is not sophisticated or well-informed, typically one living in a rural area
Assonance - The repetition of vowel sounds in successive words.
Commensurate - corresponding in size, extent, or duration
Quail - lose courage or hope; become afraid
Contemn - regard with contempt or disdain
Impinge - have an effect or impact on
Discernment - the ability to judge well
Disparage - speak of or treat with disrespect
Absolutism - the belief that one person or group has absolute control
Foresight - the ability to predict or the action of predicting what will happen or be needed in the future
Mores - the customs, manners, and morals of a society
Myriad - a very large number; an indefinitely large number
Banal - lacking originality or freshness; trite
Sclerotic - hardening or stiffening, especially of body tissue or an organization
Fractious - inclined to argue or complain; difficult to control or manage
Absurdism - the belief that the human condition is fundamentally absurd and meaningless, and that individuals must create their own meaning in life.
Cogent - (of an argument or case) clear, logical, and convincing
Harebrained - lacking good sense or judgment
Riposte - a quick, witty, or caustic reply
Dally - behave in a leisurely or flirtatious manner
Languor - a feeling of listlessness or weakness, often as a result of illness
Evince - show clearly; demonstrate
Autonomy - the power or right of a country or organization to govern itself
Quotidian - occurring every day; daily
Epic - A long narrative poem that tells the story of a heroic figure.
Latitude - the freedom to act or speak without interference or restriction
Craven - lacking courage; contemptibly fearful
Somber - dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy
Peculate - steal or embezzle (something, especially money placed in one's trust or belonging to an organization)
Intractable - difficult to control or deal with
Transcend - go beyond the limits of (something); surpass
Indeterminate - uncertain or indefinite
Omnipotent - all-powerful
Fervor - great intensity of feeling or conviction; zeal
Equanimity - calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations
Inveigh - speak or write about (something) with great hostility
Fatuous - foolish and lacking good sense
Augury - a sign or omen, especially a bird's behavior, predicting the future
Exacerbate - make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse
Deconstruction - A method of critical analysis that examines the underlying assumptions and meanings of texts.
Lumbering - moving slowly and heavily
Heed - pay careful attention to (something)
Egocentric - excessively self-centered or self-absorbed
Euphemism - A mild or indirect word or phrase used to replace a harsh or blunt term.
Diaspora - the dispersion of a group of people from their original homeland
Subjugate - bring under control, especially by military force
Ostensible - appearing as such, but not necessarily so
Homily - a sermon or moral lesson, typically one given as part of a church service
Supercilious - behaving or looking as though one thinks one is superior to others
Accretion - the process of gradually adding to or increasing something
Queer theory - an approach to studying gender and sexuality that challenges the idea of fixed identities and the binary of heterosexuality and homosexuality.
Insidious - proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects
Credence - belief in or acceptance of something as true
Incontrovertible - beyond doubt or dispute; indisputable
Ethnography - The study of human cultures and societies.
Superlative - of the highest quality or degree
Sordid - involving ignoble actions and motives; squalid
Grandiloquent - pompous or bombastic in language
Unctuous - insincerely or excessively smooth, suave, or smug
Dualism - the belief in the existence of two ultimate realities or principles, often good and evil or mind and matter.
Vilify - defame or speak evil of
Odious - arousing strong dislike or disgust
Covet - desire (something) eagerly; want possession of
Renounce - give up (a right, claim, or possession) formally or definitively
Truculent - ready and willing to fight; fierce
Prolix - using or containing too many words; tedious through excess of detail
Chiasmus - A figure of speech in which the second half of an expression is balanced or mirrored against the first.
Diffident - shy and lacking in confidence
Disparate - essentially different in kind; unrelated
Prehensile - able to grasp or hold something firmly
Ambivalence - the state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone
Nefarious - wicked or criminal
Capitalist - An economic system based on the private ownership of the means of production and the creation of profit.
Equivocate - use ambiguous or unclear language, especially to deceive or mislead
Pensive - deep in thought, often in a sad or concerned way
Proclivity - a strong inclination or tendency toward something
Unassailable - impossible to challenge or dispute
Pariah - an outcast
Insipid - lacking flavor or interest
Dexterous - skilled in using one's hands
Fulsome - excessively flattering or complimentary; insincere
Castigate - criticize severely
Consciousness - the state of being aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings
Infer - deduce or conclude (something) from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements
Melancholic - characterized by feelings of pessimism, inadequacy, and sadness
Totalization - the process of making something total or complete
Simile - A figure of speech that compares two unlike things using the words "like" or "as."
Consolidate - to bring together or unite into a single, more effective or coherent whole
Dystopia - a fictional society characterized by suffering, oppression, and a lack of freedom.
Diversion - the action of turning something aside from its course or intended use
Treacherous - likely to betray trust; treacherous
Pathology - the study of disease or abnormal conditions
Obsequious - overly eager to please or obey
Ignominious - deserving or causing public disgrace or shame
Gait - a person's manner of walking or moving
Aver - assert or confirm to be true
Apathetic - showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern
Conjecture - a supposition or guess based on incomplete information
Doxa - the dominant beliefs and opinions held by a society or group.
Entrenched - deeply established and difficult to change
Transcendent - going beyond the limits of ordinary experience or understanding
Meander - follow a winding course; wander aimlessly
Scruple - a moral principle or condition that inhibits action
Fecund - productive or fertile, especially in relation to producing offspring or new growth
Persnickety - fussy or fastidious, especially about trivial matters
Amorphous - having no definite form or distinct shape
Portend - be a sign or warning of (something, especially something future or ominous)
Gregarious - sociable and outgoing
Mimesis - the imitation of reality in art or literature
Meditate - think deeply or focus one's mind for a period of time, in silence or with the aid of chanting, for religious or spiritual purposes or as a method of relaxation
Deference - respect and consideration for someone or something
Ineluctable - inevitable and inescapable
Stanch - stop or check (a flow of liquid, especially blood)
Phlegmatic - calm and unemotional
Mannered - having a particular way of behaving or conducting oneself
Fervid - characterized by intense feeling; passionate
Malaise - a feeling of general discomfort or unease, often the first sign of an illness
Aspersion - a damaging or derogatory remark
Petrify - to turn to stone or become immobilized with fear
Hermeneutics - The study of the interpretation of texts.
Insolent - showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect
Perfidy - the action or quality of being traitorous
Prima facie - based on the first impression, before any further examination or evidence is considered
Interpellation - the process of being addressed or hailed as a particular subject or identity
Facetious - treating serious issues with inappropriate humor; flippant
Miserly - greedy and unwilling to spend money
Misanthrope - a person who dislikes humankind and avoids human society
Repine - feel or express discontent or resentment
Quandary - a state of uncertainty or perplexity
Extrospection - the act of looking outward or focusing on external objects or events
Esoteric - intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest
Dissemble - conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs
Discretion - the quality of being discreet; prudence
Recondite - difficult to understand; abstruse
Coquet - act in a way that is intended to be attractive to someone, especially in a way that is considered to be teasing or insincere
Bildungsroman - a type of novel that follows the psychological and moral development of its protagonist
Contumacious - stubbornly disobedient or rebellious
Heterodox - holding unorthodox opinions or beliefs, especially in relation to religion
Incognito - (of a person) having one's true identity concealed
Mien - a person's appearance, manner, or demeanor
Assuage - make (something) less severe or intense
Nonplussed - surprised and confused, especially because one cannot think of an appropriate or satisfactory response
Doggerel - poor or badly written poetry
Rescind - repeal or annul (a law, decision, or agreement)
Havoc - widespread destruction or devastation
Intimation - a hint or suggestion
Sparse - thinly scattered or distributed
Meliorate - make or become better
Succinct - concise and clearly expressed
Contingency - the state of being dependent on something that is uncertain or unpredictable
Restive - uneasy and unwilling to be controlled; restless
Foible - a minor weakness or failing in character
Kairos - a sense of timing or opportunity, often used to describe the right moment to take action.
Beguile - deceive or mislead (someone) with charming words or actions
Agnosticism - the belief that the existence of God or a higher power cannot be known or proven.
Vexation - the state of being annoyed or frustrated
Histrionic - excessively dramatic or emotional, especially in an exaggerated or self-conscious way
Credulous - ready to believe or trust too readily, especially without sufficient evidence
Emanation - the act of emanating, or the state of being emitted
Fickle - changeable in affections or loyalties
Irascible - easily angered; quick-tempered
Harangue - a long, angry speech of criticism or accusation
Redolent - having a strong pleasant smell
Precarious - not secure or certain; risky
Agency - The ability to act independently and make choices.
Waver - hesitate or be uncertain about
Herculean - requiring great strength or effort
Dilatory - tending to delay or procrastinate
Extol - praise highly
Puissant - powerful; strong
Opera - A musical drama in which the performers sing all the dialogue.
Wither - (of a plant) lose or cause to lose vitality and freshness; fade
Synthesis - The combining of various ideas or elements to form a whole.
Peripatetic - traveling from place to place, especially to work
Solipsism - the belief that one's own mind is the only thing that can be known to exist.
Stint - be thrifty; use sparingly
Tremulous - shaking or trembling slightly
Indeterminacy - the state of being uncertain or unpredictable
Recalcitrant - stubbornly resistant to authority or control
Harried - troubled and anxious; harassed
Serendipity - the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way
Diminution - the action of becoming or making something smaller or less
Temerity - reckless boldness; audacity
Innocuous - not harmful or offensive
Obdurate - resistant to persuasion or softening
Sanctimony - hypocritical and insincere behavior, especially when regarded as being devout or moralistic
Psychoanalysis - A theory and method of psychological treatment that seeks to understand the unconscious mind.
Coy - bashful or modest, especially in a playful or appealing way
Ruffle - cause (someone) to feel upset or annoyed
Anachronism - something or someone that is not in its correct historical or chronological time, especially a thing or person that belongs to an earlier time
Defray - pay (a cost or expense)
Salacious - relating to or tending to arouse sexual desire or interest
Salient - prominent or important
Demur - raise objections or show reluctance
Ethnocentrism - the belief in the superiority of one's own culture and the tendency to view other cultures through that lens.
Vituperative - using or containing harsh or abusive language
Proletariat - the working class, especially the industrial working class
Rococo - ornate and elaborate in design, typically using light colors and curved, ornamental shapes
Reverie - a state of being lost in thought
Striated - having thin, parallel bands or lines on the surface
Ethos - an appeal to credibility or authority, often used to establish the speaker's credibility or expertise on a topic.
Indigent - poor and in need of assistance
Replete - filled or well-supplied with something
Fervent - having or displaying great warmth or intensity of feeling
Ego-death - the experience of losing one's sense of self and individual identity, often through spiritual or psychedelic experiences.
Hypothesis - a supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation
Enervate - make (someone) feel physically or mentally exhausted
Churlish - rude and bad-mannered
Cognition - The mental processes of perception, memory, and thinking.
Artless - natural and unpretentious; lacking art or guile
Dilettante - a person who takes up an activity, especially in the arts, without serious intention or knowledge
Philanthropy - the desire to promote the welfare of others, especially through charitable activities
Reticent - not willing to speak freely or reveal one's thoughts or feelings
Impecunious - having little or no money
Synchronicity - the belief in the interconnectedness of events and the idea that they are happening at the same time.
Effrontery - presumptuous or impudent behavior; audacity
Harbinger - a person or thing that announces or signals the approach of something
Quixotic - extravagantly chivalrous or romantic; impractical
Levity - lightness of manner or speech, especially when inappropriate
Brevity - the quality of being brief or concise
Temporal - relating to worldly as opposed to spiritual affairs
Languish - (of a person or living thing) become weak or faint through illness, hunger, or unhappiness
Invective - strong criticism or abuse in speech or writing
Ennui - a feeling of listlessness or boredom, often accompanied by a feeling of dissatisfaction
Fidelitous - faithful and loyal
Structure - the organization or arrangement of something
Patriarchal - a social system in which men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.
Nebulous - unclear or vague
Implicit - implied rather than plainly expressed
Wistful - feeling or expressing a longing or yearning
Miser - a person who hoards wealth and spends as little money as possible
Tranquil - peaceful and calm
Anaphora - The repetition of the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences.
Fallacious - based on a mistake or incorrect reasoning
Positivism - the belief in the power of scientific evidence and the use of empirical data to understand the world.
Caustic - sarcastic or critical in a sharp or wounding way
Humanism - A philosophy that emphasizes the worth and dignity of the individual.
Iconoclastic - challenging or rejecting traditional ideas or institutions
Ignominy - public shame or disgrace
Linguistic determinism - the idea that language shapes the way we think and perceive the world.
Endemic - native to or restricted to a particular region or people
Flimsy - weak and insubstantial
Cozen - deceive or mislead someone, especially in order to gain an advantage
Cognitive dissonance - mental discomfort experienced when believing or doing something that goes against personal values or beliefs
Inert - unable to move or act
Castigation - severe criticism or punishment
Refractory - difficult to control or manage
Maraud - roam and attack in search of plunder
Pithy - concise and full of meaning
Lucid - easy to understand; clear and concise
Patriarchy - a social system in which men hold power and women are subjugated
Tepid - lukewarm in feeling or enthusiasm
Misogynist - a person who hates, dislikes, or mistrusts women
Expatiate - speak or write at length
Quiescent - in a state of inactivity or repose; at rest
Precipitate - cause (something, especially an event or situation) to happen suddenly or sooner than expected
Peccadillo - a minor sin or wrongdoing
Querulous - prone to complaining or arguing peevishly
Uphold - support or defend (something)
Mote - a small particle or speck, especially of dust
Alienation - the feeling of being disconnected or separated from others or society.
Egalitarian - believing in or promoting the principle of equality for all people
Ableism - discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities.
Infinitesimal - extremely small; immeasurably or immeasurably small
Volatile - tending to vary often or widely, especially in respect of mood or behavior
Ruddy - (especially of a person's face) having a healthy red color
Zealot - a person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, political, or other ideals
Ephemeral - lasting for a very short time; transitory
Implacable - unable to be placated or pacified
Virulent - (of a disease or poison) extremely severe or harmful in its effects
Taciturn - habitually untalkative; not inclined to speak
Acculturation - the process of adopting the cultural traits or social patterns of another group
Connoisseur - an expert judge in matters of taste, especially in the arts
Irresolute - hesitant or uncertain about what to do
Lassitude - a feeling of tiredness or lack of energy
Asyndeton - The omission of conjunctions between words, phrases, or clauses.
Desultory - lacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm; haphazard
Intersectionality - the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender and how they create overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage.
Habitus - the learned behaviors, attitudes, and dispositions of an individual, shaped by their social and cultural background.
Erudite - having or showing great knowledge acquired through reading and study
Bombastic - pompous or overblown in language
Discreet - careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, especially in order to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage
Impropriety - the quality or state of being improper or inappropriate
Malediction - a curse; a verbal formula believed to have the power to cause harm or damage
Sonder - the realization that each passerby is living a life as complex as one's own
Impetuous - acting or done quickly and without thought or care
Melange - a mixture or assortment of different things
Meticulous - extremely careful and precise
Pantheism - the belief that God is present in all things and is identical to the universe.
Transcendentalism - the belief in the existence of a higher reality beyond the material world, and the idea that individuals can access this reality through spiritual or intuitive means.
Enhance - make (something) better, more attractive, or more valuable
Atrophy - a wasting away or degeneration of a body part or tissue, especially through lack of use
Neoliberalism - an economic theory that advocates for free markets and minimal government intervention
Emendation - the action of correcting a text or piece of work
Bombination - a low, continuous humming or buzzing sound
Debauch - corrupt or pervert (someone) morally
Preclude - prevent (something) from happening or existing
Materialism - the belief that physical possessions and material wealth are the most important values in life
Panacea - a solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases
Anthropology - the study of human cultures and societies
Tacit - understood or implied without being stated directly
Scintilla - a small trace or spark of a particular quality or feeling
Disconsolate - feeling or showing great unhappiness or despair
Dissuade - persuade (someone) not to do something
Culpable - deserving blame; blameworthy
Neocolonialism - the continuation of economic, cultural, and political control of a country by outside powers in more subtle or indirect ways.
Forbearance - the act of tolerating something, especially the delaying of payment of a debt
Susceptible - likely or liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing
Torpor - a state of physical or mental inactivity
Eccentric - deviating from the recognized or customary character, practice, or habit
Guile - cunning or deceit
Unremitting - continuing without pause or interruption
Structuralism - a theory that focuses on the underlying structures in language, culture, and society
Dint - a depression or indentation made by a blow
Crabbed - bad-tempered and irritable
Inalienable - not capable of being taken away or denied
Flaccid - lacking firmness or stiffness; limp
Kinship - a relationship between people who are related to each other, especially within a family
Demagogue - a political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument
Nexus - a connection or link between people or things
Dialectical - A method of argument or discourse that involves the resolution of opposing views through discussion.
Timorous - showing or suffering from nervousness or fear
Agglutinate - unite or cause to unite into a single mass
Canon - a collection of literary works that are considered especially important or influential
Tamper - interfere with (something) in order to cause damage or make unauthorized alterations
Soporific - tending to cause sleep
Platitude - a remark or statement that is trite or unoriginal
Neoclassicism - a revival of classical aesthetic and artistic styles, particularly in literature and architecture.
Expatriate - to leave one's country to live abroad
Indomitable - not able to be overcome or subdued
Remonstrate - make a strong protest
Maladroit - lacking skill or ability
Adust - made or become dry by exposure to heat
Socialism - An economic system characterized by public ownership of the means of production and the distribution of wealth according to work.
Discern - perceive or recognize (something) with a degree of clarity
Communism - a political and economic theory that advocates for the abolition of private property and the creation of a classless society
Fathom - understand or explain (something) thoroughly
Languid - feeling or showing a lack of energy or enthusiasm
Dote - show excessive fondness for
Coax - persuade (someone) gradually or by flattery to do something
Extricate - free (someone or something) from a difficult or complicated situation
Meretricious - superficially attractive but of little value or integrity
Compunction - a feeling of deep regret, especially for having done something wrong
Empathy - the ability to understand and share the feelings of another
Deter - prevent or discourage (someone) from doing something
Fragment - a small, broken, or incomplete part of something
Stentorian - (of a person's voice) extremely loud and powerful
Narcolepsy - a condition characterized by an irresistible tendency to fall asleep
Class struggle - the conflict between different classes in society
Extraneous - not belonging to or connected with the subject being dealt with
Mausoleum - a large, impressive tomb
Lyric - A type of poetry that expresses the thoughts and feelings of the speaker.
Indolent - inclined to do nothing; lazy
Finesse - skill, delicacy, or subtlety in handling a situation
Avuncular - relating to or resembling an uncle, especially in kindness or generosity
Extrapolate - estimate or infer (something) from known facts or evidence
Quaff - drink (something, especially an alcoholic drink) heartily
Dissonance - a lack of harmony or agreement
Dissimulate - conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs behind a false appearance
Cordial - warm and friendly
Satiate - satisfy (a desire or an appetite) fully
Solidarity - A feeling of unity and support among a group of people.
Enumerate - mention (a number of things) one by one
Atone - make amends for (a wrong or offense)
Interlocutor - a person who takes part in a conversation or dialogue
Anagnorisis - the moment of recognition or realization in a story or play, often leading to a turning point or resolution.
Imperturbable - not easily agitated or disturbed
Dilate - become or cause to become wider or more open
Gnosticism - the belief in the existence of hidden knowledge that can be accessed through spiritual or esoteric means.
Dapper - smart and neat in appearance
Deign - do something that one considers beneath one's dignity
Penchant - a strong or habitual liking for something
Risible - causing laughter or amusement
Dubious - having doubts or reservations
Audacity - daring or boldness
Decorous - behaving or conducted in a manner that is socially proper and conforms to good taste
Gourmand - a person who takes great pleasure in eating and drinking
Savvy - practical knowledge and understanding of a particular subject or situation
Intransigent - refusing to compromise or change one's position
Harrowing - causing great distress or suffering
Aggregate - a whole made up of individual parts
Vacillate - fluctuate indecisively between one course of action or opinion and another
Empirical - based on, concerned with, or verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic
Pareidolia - the perception of patterns or meaning where none exists, often leading to the perception of illusions or hallucinations.
Ostentatious - showy in a vulgar or pretentious way, designed to impress or attract notice
Eclecticism - the practice of selecting ideas or works from a range of sources, especially in art or literature
Postmodernism - a movement in art, literature, and philosophy that challenges the traditional values and narratives of modernism and highlights the role of power and subjectivity in shaping reality.
Cower - shrink back in fear or submission
Itinerant - traveling from place to place, especially to work or perform
Nihilism - the belief that all values are baseless and that nothing can be known or communicated
Incongruous - not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects of something
Dowdy - shabby and unfashionable in appearance
Denouement - the final resolution of the main complication in a literary work
Dank - unpleasantly damp or musty
Cautious - careful and circumspect; not reckless
Lament - express sorrow or mourn for
Vindicate - clear (someone) of blame or suspicion
Engender - cause or give rise to
Capitalism - an economic and political system based on the private ownership of the means of production and the creation of goods and services for profit
Auspicious - likely to bring success or good fortune
Serrated - having a row of sharp or jagged edges
Bellicose - eager or quick to go to war; aggressive
Ethereal - extremely delicate and light in a way that seems not to be of this world
Profligate - wildly extravagant or wasteful
Plumb - determine the depth of (something) by using a plumb line
Cerebral - relating to the brain or the intellect
Laudatory - expressing praise or admiration
Subversion - The act of undermining or opposing established authority or norms.
Evaluative - relating to the process of determining the value or worth of something
Maverick - an independent or individualistic person who does not conform to a group
Subjectivity - the state of being subjective, or based on personal opinions or feelings
Baroque - elaborate and ornate in design, decoration, or style
Staunch - firmly committed and loyal
Malevolent - having or showing a wish to do evil to others
Imperative - absolutely necessary or urgent
Rapprochement - the reestablishment of friendly relations
Gauche - lacking social polish or grace
Drastic - extreme and sudden
Scintillate - sparkle or flash with small bursts of light
Keynote - a central or primary rule, principle, or theme
Condescending - showing or implying a patronizingly superior attitude
Allegory - a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one
Paean - a song or hymn of praise or thanksgiving
Transmute - change or alter in form, appearance, or nature
Dauntless - fearless and determined
Irrevocable - not able to be reversed or called back
Sonnet - A 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and structure.
Catechize - teach or instruct systematically, especially in the principles of a religion
Debunk - expose the falseness or hollowness of (a myth, idea, or belief)
Sagacious - having or showing good judgment; wise
Pedagogue - a teacher of children, especially in a primary or secondary school
Imperialism - the policy or practice of extending the control of a nation over other countries
Propensity - a natural inclination or tendency
Carapace - a hard protective outer covering, especially of an animal
Disabuse - set right (a mistaken belief)
Artifice - cunning or deceitful skill
Pervade - spread throughout (something)
Iconoclast - a person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or institutions
Mystify - confuse or bewilder (someone)
Neologism - a newly coined word or phrase, or a new meaning for an existing word
Sporadic - occurring at irregular intervals; not constant or continuous
Pervasive - present or noticeable throughout
Pathos - a quality that evokes pity or sadness
Feckless - irresponsible and unreliable
Nascent - just coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potential
Precipitous - steep and abrupt
Diverse - different in character or content; varied
Prelude - an introduction or opening to a larger work or event
Sanguine - optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation
Vex - cause trouble or annoyance to; bother
Counterfactual - a hypothetical situation that contradicts the facts
Inflict - impose something unpleasant on
Contingent - dependent on something else
Legible - (of writing or print) easy to read
Proscribe - forbid (something) by law or command
Discourse - the exchange of ideas and opinions through conversation or writing
Obviate - remove (a need or difficulty)
Liminality - the state of being in-between, often referring to the threshold between two different phases or experiences.
Ludicrous - ridiculous or absurd
Curmudgeon - a bad-tempered or surly person
Yoke - a device used to link together two animals, such as oxen, for pulling
Zephyr - a gentle breeze
Opine - express an opinion
Preemptive - intended to prevent something, especially trouble or attack, from occurring
Cosset - treat with excessive indulgence or care
Ontological - relating to the nature of being or existence
Egoism - the belief that one's own interests should be the primary concern in life.
Granulate - to form into grains or small particles
Wily - clever or cunning, especially in a deceptive way
Ominous - suggesting that something bad is likely to happen
Bifurcate - to divide into two branches or parts
Dour - gloomy, sullen, and obstinate
Oligarchy - a small group of people having control of a country, organization, or institution
Upbraid - criticize (someone) severely
Copious - abundant in quantity
Apocryphal - of doubtful authenticity, although widely circulated as being true
Fraught - filled with or likely to result in (something undesirable)
Neophyte - a beginner or novice in a particular sphere or activity
Compendium - a brief, comprehensive summary of a larger work
Persiflage - light and frivolous talk or writing
Modicum - a small quantity of a particular thing, especially something considered desirable or valuable
Culmination - the highest or most extreme point of something
Filibuster - attempt to block or delay legislation by making long speeches or otherwise obstructing proceedings
Orthogonal - perpendicular or at right angles
Opprobrium - strong public criticism or disapproval
Crave - have an intense desire for
Jettison - throw (something) overboard from a ship or aircraft in order to lighten the load
Phenomenon - a fact, occurrence, or circumstance that is observed or noticed
Paradox - a statement or situation that appears to be self-contradictory or absurd, but may actually be true
Unconscionable - not guided by conscience; unscrupulous
Mendacious - lying or dishonest
Subaltern - a social group that is socially, politically, and economically inferior
Universalism - the belief that certain values, principles, or practices are applicable to all people.
Tautology - the stating of something in different words, especially in a way that adds nothing new
Interminable - seeming to have no end; endless
Cadence - a rhythmic rise and fall in the sound of a person's voice, especially when speaking
Flux - a state of constant change, movement, or alteration
Raze - level (a building or town) to the ground
Immanent - existing or occurring within the mind or consciousness
Predilection - a tendency to favor something; a preference
Emanate - to come out from a source
Indefatigable - incapable of being tired out; tireless
Eclectic - deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources
Efficacy - the ability to produce a desired or intended result
Squander - waste or spend (something, especially money or time) extravagantly or carelessly
Avow - declare or admit openly
Misconstrue - interpret (something) in a wrong or mistaken way
Elucidate - make (something) clear or easier to understand
Monoculture - the dominance of a single cultural perspective or ideology over a society or group.
Asperity - harshness or severity
Calumny - the making of false and defamatory statements about someone
Aggrandize - make (something) appear greater or more important than it is
Congenial - pleasant and likable
Fascism - a political ideology that advocates for authoritarian rule, national pride, and militarism
Unmitigated - not softened or moderated in intensity
Antagonism - active hostility or opposition
Desiccate - preserve (something) by removing the moisture from it
Alleluia - an exclamation of praise to God, used especially in Christian worship
Ouroboros - an ancient symbol of a serpent or dragon eating its own tail, representing the cyclical nature of life and death.
Dissent - the holding or expressing of opinions at variance with those commonly or officially held
Dialectic - a method of argument that involves the synthesis of opposing viewpoints
Acquiesce - accept something reluctantly but without protest
Ostracize - exclude (someone) from a society or group
Effulgence - the state of being bright and radiant
Defenestration - the act of throwing someone or something out of a window
Impregnable - impossible to conquer or defeat
Boorish - rude and insensitive
Atomize - break or cause to break into very small pieces or parts
Solicitous - showing care and concern; attentive
Normative - relating to standards or norms
Molt - shed (feathers, skin, or hair) naturally
Chicanery - the use of trickery to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose
Lacerate - tear or wound (something) in a rough or irregular way
Askew - out of alignment or position
Neoconservatism - a political ideology that advocates for a strong national defense, interventionist foreign policy, and limited government intervention in social and economic affairs.
Perfidious - treacherous and faithless
Tinsel - showy but valueless or insubstantial material
Diverge - (of a road, route, or line) separate or branch off in a different direction
Fevered - having a high fever
Emancipation - the process of being freed from legal, social, or political restrictions
Extemporaneous - performed or spoken without preparation
Convivial - friendly, lively, and enjoyable, especially in relation to socializing and partying
Defenestrate - throw (someone or something) out of a window
Proliferate - increase rapidly in number; multiply
Carnal - relating to physical pleasure or appetite, especially sexual desire
Inchoate - just beginning to be developed or formed; not fully formed or realized
Cachet - a seal on a document, especially one signifying official approval
Ontogeny - the development and evolution of an individual organism.
Oxymoron - A phrase that combines two seemingly contradictory terms.
Bounteous - generous or liberal in giving
Jubilant - full of joy and pride
Strident - loud and harsh; discordant
Ebullient - full of energy and enthusiasm
Blight - damage or destroy (something, especially a plant)
Alliteration - The repetition of the same sound at the beginning of successive words.
Stalwart - strong and dependable; loyal and steadfast
Amalgamate - combine or merge to form a single entity
Aesthetics - The study of beauty and art.
Imperious - having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy
Congruous - in agreement or harmony
Enigma - a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand
Anomie - social instability caused by a breakdown of values and norms
Reification - the process of treating an abstract concept as if it were a concrete thing
Officious - excessively eager to help or offer one's services
Nostalgia - a longing for something from the past
Propitiate - make (someone) less angry or hostile
Expiate - make amends or reparation for (a wrong or sin)
Coruscate - sparkle or shine brightly
Permeate - penetrate or spread throughout (something)
Stolid - showing little emotion or animation; impassive
Commodification - the process of turning something into a commodity
Placate - calm or soothe (someone)
Contiguous - sharing a border or touching at a point
Winsome - charming and attractive
Pretentious - attempting to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, culture, or knowledge than is actually possessed
Epistemology - The study of knowledge and belief.
Debauchery - excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures
Feminism - The belief in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes.
Aesthetic - relating to the appreciation of beauty or good taste
Pastiche - a work of art, literature, music, or architecture that imitates the style of previous works
Contrition - deep regret or remorse for a wrong or sin
Inconsequential - not important or significant
Sublime - of very great excellence or beauty
Squelch - suppress or extinguish (something) completely
Voluminous - having a large volume or amount; large or extensive
Monism - the belief in the unity of all things and the idea that there is only one ultimate reality.
Collusion - secret or illegal cooperation or conspiracy, especially in order to deceive or cheat others
Misogyny - a hatred or prejudice against women.
Morass - a complex or confusing situation
Seine - a large fishing net with a long, narrow bag that is suspended from a long, sturdy cord and supported by floats
Miasma - a polluted or foul-smelling atmosphere
Tittle-tattle - idle or frivolous conversation or gossip
Deluge - a sudden, overwhelming flood
Solvent - able to meet financial obligations
Homogenize - make uniform in composition
Theism - the belief in the existence of a personal, omniscient, and omnipotent God.
Sass - back talk; cheek
Repudiate - reject the validity or authority of
Malinger - pretend to be ill in order to avoid work or other responsibilities
Sycophant - a person who tries to win favor by flattering powerful people
Ontology - The study of being or existence.
Capricious - inclined to change one's mind impulsively; fickle
Peruse - to read or study carefully
Recapitulate - summarize the main points of (something)
Misogynistic - hating, disliking, or mistrusting women
Preempt - prevent (something) from happening by taking action beforehand
Evocative - tending to suggest or evoke an idea, feeling, or memory
Cryptic - having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure
Penultimate - next to the last
Exculpate - clear (someone) of blame or guilt
Presage - be a sign or warning of (something, especially something future or unpleasant)
Troglodyte - a person who lives in a cave or a habitation of a similar kind
Wangle - obtain or achieve (something) by using cunning or deception
Pellucid - transparently clear; easy to understand
Latent - present or potential but not yet developed or manifest
Diffidence - lack of self-confidence; shyness
Blandishment - a flattering or pleasing remark or action, used to persuade someone to do something
Parsimony - extreme unwillingness to spend money or use resources
Staid - serious and sensible; not prone to change or excitement
Inveterate - long-established and unlikely to change
Virtuosity - great skill or proficiency in a particular activity or field
Benevolent - kindly and charitable
Cajole - coax or persuade (someone) to do something by flattery or temptation
Mollify - soothe or pacify (someone)
Exalt - raise in rank, status, or honor
Hegemony - the dominance of one group over others
Infelicitous - not appropriate or well-suited to the circumstances
Noxious - harmful or poisonous
Pluralism - the belief in the existence of multiple ultimate realities or truths.
Postcolonialism - The study of the cultural, political, and economic effects of colonialism.
Hyperreality - the phenomenon of the representation of reality being more influential and dominant than the actual reality itself.
Heteronormative - relating to a set of norms that assumes that all people are heterosexual
Axiomatic - self-evident or universally accepted
Unwieldy - difficult to use or handle because of size, shape, or weight
Cicatrix - a scar left after a wound or sore has healed
Theodicy - the attempt to reconcile the existence of suffering and evil with the belief in a benevolent and all-powerful God.
Deprecate - express strong disapproval of; deplore
Corroborate - confirm or give support to (a statement, theory, or finding)
Classical liberalism - a political philosophy that emphasizes individual liberty, free markets, and limited government
Evanescent - tending to disappear like vapor; fleeting
Oust - remove (someone) forcibly from a position or place
Denounce - speak out against; criticize or condemn openly
Implicate - involve (someone) in a crime or situation, especially as an accomplice
Enamored - deeply attracted or infatuated with
Conscientization - the process of becoming aware of social and political injustice and oppression
Discomfit - cause (someone) to feel embarrassed or confused
Disinterested - not influenced by personal feelings or interests; unbiased
Pique - a feeling of resentment or indignation
Cosmopolitan - sophisticated and worldly, especially as a result of international travel or exposure to foreign cultures
Cultural imperialism - the spread and imposition of a dominant culture or ideology onto other societies.
Byzantine - relating to the ancient city of Byzantium or the Byzantine Empire; complex or intricate
Waft - be carried lightly through the air
Augment - make (something) larger or greater in amount
Consonance - The repetition of consonant sounds in successive words.
Fluctuate - vary irregularly, especially between two limits
Diaphanous - very thin and delicate, especially so as to allow light to pass through
Raconteur - a person skilled in telling anecdotes and stories
Metaphor - A figure of speech that compares two unlike things using the verb "to be."
Tout - promote or publicize (something) vigorously
Delineate - describe or portray (something) precisely
Syncretism - the blending or merging of different beliefs or practices, often resulting in a new, hybrid form of religion.
Polysemy - the quality of having multiple meanings or interpretations.
Anodyne - something that soothes or relieves pain
Pusillanimous - lacking courage or determination; timid
Contrite - remorseful and repentant for one's actions
Nation-state - a sovereign state with defined borders and a government that controls the territory and people within it
Emollient - having a softening or soothing effect, especially on the skin
Zenith - the time at which something is most powerful or successful; the peak
Exemplify - serve as a typical or excellent example of
Gambol - play or frolic in a lively or carefree way
Exonerate - clear (someone) of blame or suspicion
Magnanimous - generous and forgiving, especially towards an opponent or a rival
Paradigm - a model or pattern, especially an ideal one
Hyperbole - an exaggeration or overstatement, especially for emphasis or effect
Divulge - reveal (something private or secret)
Convoluted - complicated and difficult to follow or understand
Hegemonic - relating to dominance or control
Stark - severe or bare in appearance or outline
Frivolous - not having any serious purpose or value; trivial
White supremacy - the belief in the superiority of the white race and the systematic oppression of people of color.
Tarry - remain or stay in a place longer than intended, especially because of delay
Inveigle - persuade (someone) to do something by means of deception or flattery
Enormity - the quality or state of being very great, especially in scale or degree
Eschatology - the study of the end of the world or the ultimate fate of humanity.
Democracy - A system of government in which power is held by the people through elected representatives.
Totalitarianism - a form of government in which the state has complete control over all aspects of society
Solitude - the state of being alone; isolation
Legitimation - the process of giving something legitimacy or authority
Reprieve - a temporary delay or suspension, especially of punishment
Canard - a baseless, false, or unfounded report or story
Loathe - feel intense dislike for or disgust at
Spurious - not genuine or authentic, often deliberately so
Garrulity - the quality of being garrulous; talkativeness
Skulduggery - underhanded or unscrupulous behavior
Dirge - a song or hymn of grief or lamentation, especially for the dead
Accolade - an award or honor
Gay/queer theory - an approach to studying gender and sexuality that challenges the idea of fixed identities and the binary of heterosexuality and homosexuality.
Sarcasm - the use of irony or mockery to convey contempt or ridicule.
Attenuate - make (something) weaker or thinner
Provident - providing carefully for the future; thrifty
Surfeit - an excessive amount of something
Polemic - a strong verbal or written attack on someone or something
Teleology - The study of purpose or design.
Satire - The use of humor, irony, or exaggeration to expose or criticize social or political issues.
Nepotism - the practice among those with power or influence of favoring relatives or friends
Symphony - A long musical composition for an orchestra, typically in four movements.
Monolithic - massive and imposing in size or scale; solid and uniform
Legerdemain - the use of clever or skilful deception, especially in the performance of magic tricks
Rhyme - The repetition of the same sound at the end of successive words.
Moot - debatable or open to discussion; not settled or resolved
Incorporate - combine or unite (something) with something else so as to form a whole
Grieve - feel great sadness or distress about (something)
Exorbitant - greatly exceeding what is usual or necessary
Globalization - the process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of the world's economies, cultures, and populations.
Cornucopia - an abundance or abundance of something
Fret - worry or be anxious
Torpid - sluggish or inactive
Masticate - chew (food)
Loquacious - tending to talk a great deal
Intemperate - lacking moderation or self-control
Fawn - seek favor or attention by flattery or obsequious behavior
Bevy - a large group of people, especially women or birds
Subsume - include (something) within something else; incorporate
Poignancy - a quality that evokes a keen sense of sadness or regret
Prevaricate - speak or act in an evasive way, especially to mislead or avoid telling the truth
Structural violence - the systematic ways in which a social structure or political system harms or disadvantages a particular group of people.
Fastidious - meticulous and attentive to detail
Denigrate - criticize or speak badly of (someone or something)
Beleaguer - harass or threaten persistently
Deism - the belief in a higher power or creator that is not involved in the daily affairs of the world.
Marxism - a political and economic theory that emphasizes class struggle and the need for revolution to bring about change