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Language specialists confirm that people with a good education, those who read more, and those who like to explore new things have a bigger and richer vocabulary. You might think this automatically means that using big words makes you intelligent. Well no, that’s not how it works. It often happens that people use big words to sound smart without even understanding what that word means. Needless to say, the effect is quite often the opposite. 

But besides knowing the meaning of words, you should also be aware of the appropriate situations to use them in. For one, even though the more common and the fancy word might have the same general meaning, a small nuance often makes them inapplicable in certain situations. On top of that, using high vocabulary words that belong in a textbook or a novel when you order a coffee or explain to a friend why you liked the movie you watched last night, sounds ridiculous, to say the least. Similarly, special words that are only understandable to people of a certain profession shouldn’t be forced into a conversation if you are not talking to your colleagues. They don’t make you sound smarter; they make you sound incomprehensible.  

That said, it absolutely does not mean that you should always stick to basic vocabulary. There are hundreds of beautiful words in English, same as in any other language, that can expand your vocabulary and make you an interesting and pleasant counterpart. Remember that the actual goal of every conversation is to find the perfect words to describe your thoughts and feelings, not to dazzle the person you are talking to with some long and arguably unnecessary words.

Below you will find a lot of interesting words with their definitions to help you expand your English vocabulary. How many of them did you already know? Make sure you use them responsibly and also tell us in the comments if there are any fancy words you especially enjoy.

#1

The meaning of effervescent Effervescent

Meaning: having the property of forming bubbles.

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Used in Schweppes ads as schweppervescent which for some reason annoys me more than it should

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    #2

    Aeonian

    Meaning: lasting for an immeasurably or indefinitely long period of time.

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    Belle Miles
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Now I miss buying my readers digest. But it only came out once a month and took 30 to 40 minutes to read, except my special pages that were the funnies and word challenge. Oh, it's really been a while.

    #3

    Pusillanimous

    Meaning: lacking courage and resolution.

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    #4

    Flabbergast

    Meaning: to overwhelm with shock, surprise, or wonder.

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    #5

    Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobic

    Meaning: someone with a fear of long words.

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    It's Izzy 🇺🇦 (They/Them)
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Doc, I think I have a fear of long words" "Yep, well, I think you might be Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobic" "aaaaaaaaaaaaaarghhhhhhhhh!!!!"

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    #6

    The meaning of floccinaucinihilipilification word Floccinaucinihilipilification

    Meaning: the act or habit of assessing something as worthless.

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    Kathy Rayborn
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I generally try and avoid words that require an additional breath to complete!

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    #7

    Eloquent

    Meaning: marked by forceful and fluent expression (having a way with words).

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    #8

    Zenith

    Meaning: the highest point.

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    #9

    Magnanimous

    Meaning: showing or suggesting a lofty, courageous, noble spirit.

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    #10

    The meaning of quintessential word Quintessential

    Meaning: the perfect example of something.

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    #11

    Erudite

    Meaning: having or showing knowledge that is gained by studying.

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    Agim Danga
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Might derive from old Albanian: ERA- wind, like dhe wind and DITA- meaning rhe Daylight.

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    #12

    Myriad

    Meaning: a great number / countless.

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    #13

    Repertoire

    Meaning: a person’s list of talents and skills; a list or supply of dramas, operas, pieces, or parts that a company or person is prepared to perform.

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    #14

    The meaning of transcendent word Transcendent

    Meaning: extending or lying beyond the limits of ordinary experience, being beyond comprehension.

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    #15

    Ebullience

    Meaning: the quality of lively or enthusiastic expression of thoughts or feelings.

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    #16

    Brobdingnagian

    Meaning: marked by tremendous size.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    From Gulliver's travels. Brobdingnag was the island of giants. Opposite is Liliputian, tiny in stature, after the most famous of the islands, Liliput.

    #17

    Discombobulate

    Meaning: to confuse (someone).

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    #18

    Themeaning of assiduity Assiduity

    Meaning: dedication, diligence and great focus.

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    #19

    Lateritious

    Meaning: brick-red in colour.

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    #20

    Obsequious

    Meaning: subservient (useful in an inferior capacity); marked by a fawning attentiveness.

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    #21

    Statuesque

    Meaning: resembling a statue especially in dignity, shapeliness, or stillness.

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    #23

    Amative

    Meaning: relating to or indicative of love.

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    #24

    Unparagoned

    Meaning: having no equal; matchless, incomparable.

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    #25

    Penultimate

    Meaning: next to the last thing.

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    Robert B
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I would like to submit for consideration: postpenultimate - the last thing

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    #26

    The meaning of fortnight Fortnight

    Meaning: a period of 14 days.

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    #27

    Ennui

    Meaning: a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction, boredom.

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    #28

    Rococo

    Meaning: an artistic style especially of the 18th century characterized by fanciful curved asymmetrical forms and elaborate ornamentation.

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    a panda who loves skz&txt
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Doesn't everybody learn about this at school? Renaissance, Mänierism, Baroque, Rococo we had to write so many tests about these 🤠

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    #29

    Maxim

    Meaning: a general truth, fundamental principle, or rule of conduct.

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    #31

    Evenfall

    Meaning: the beginning of evening, dusk.

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    #32

    Winebibber

    Meaning: a person who drinks too much wine.

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    #33

    Mellifluous

    Meaning: having a smooth rich flow; filled with something (such as honey) that sweetens.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Often used metaphorically to describe a sweet sound - "he had a mellifluous speaking voice"

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    #34

    The meaning of diminutive Diminutive

    Meaning: a word or name usually indicating small size.

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    #35

    Aplomb

    Meaning: complete and confident composure or self-assurance.

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    #36

    Pervicacious

    Meaning: very obstinate, unyielding, willful.

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    #37

    Obfuscate

    Meaning: to make obscure or unclear.

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    #38

    The meaning of circumlocution Circumlocution

    Meaning: the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea.

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    Wendy O'Shea
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or how to write a 2000 word essay when you only need 500 words to get all the information conveyed.

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    #39

    Extol

    Meaning: to give high praise.

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    #40

    Incisive

    Meaning: impressively direct and decisive (as in manner or presentation).

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    #41

    Latent

    Meaning: present and capable of emerging or developing but not now visible, obvious or active. In other words - there, but not there.

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    #42

    The meaning of immaculate Immaculate

    Meaning: having or containing no flaw or error.

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    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A large number of Catholic churches are named Our Lady of the Immaculate Heart

    #43

    Splendiferous

    Meaning: extraordinarily or showily impressive.

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    #44

    Aesthetic

    Meaning: pleasing in appearance, attractive.

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    #46

    The meaning of word canny Canny

    Meaning: clever, shrewd.

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    #47

    Perspicacious

    Meaning: of acute mental vision or discernment.

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    #48

    Prodigious

    Meaning: causing amazement or wonder.

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    #49

    Phenomenal

    Meaning: highly extraordinary, exceptional, remarkable.

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    #50

    The meaning of word ineffable Ineffable

    Meaning: incapable of being expressed in words.

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    #51

    Tenderness

    Meaning: a tender quality or condition, such as gentleness and affection.

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    #52

    Canoodle

    Meaning: to engage in amorous embracing, caressing, and kissing.

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    #53

    Selcouth

    Meaning: unusual, strange.

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    Atley Makar
    Community Member
    6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think this word is mainly used in positive context, or at least that has been my experience when encountering it. I would extend this perhaps to say 'unusual, yet remarkable.'

    #54

    The meaning of word orphic Orphic

    Meaning: mystic, oracular; fascinating, entrancing.

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    #55

    Malaise

    Meaning: physical discomfort or a general feeling of being under the weather.

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    #56

    Quiddity

    Meaning: whatever makes something the type that it is; the essence.

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    #57

    Cimmerian

    Meaning: very dark or gloomy.

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    #58

    The meaning of word orgulous Orgulous

    Meaning: proud.

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    #59

    Usufruct

    Meaning: the legal right of using and enjoying the fruits or profits of something belonging to another.

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    Belle Miles
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, I DO want to thank you all at Bored Panda for giving us all respite here against being overwhelmed by the news media even if we are pouting and/or ranting. It's really nice to laugh at this thread. We are all "Usufructing" from you now, We really do appreciate it all.

    #60

    Auspicious

    Meaning: showing or suggesting that future success is likely.

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    #61

    Ubiquitous

    Meaning: existing or being everywhere at the same time; constantly encountered.

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    #62

    The meaning of word confluence Confluence

    Meaning: used when discussing a meeting of minds, a group of ideas, or a coming together of diverse people for a gathering.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or generally any point where things come together; a confluence of rivers.

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    #63

    Granular

    Meaning: finely detailed. Can also help describe a meticulous level of detail in your own work, thinking, or planning.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Literally, made up of grains. In medicine, part of the healing process when the wound begins to stitch itself back together.

    #64

    Pithy

    Meaning: having substance and point, being brief, but very efficient.

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    #65

    Bespoke

    Meaning: custom-made.

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    #66

    The meaning of word resplendent Resplendent

    Meaning: shining brilliantly, characterized by a glowing splendor.

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    #67

    Diatribe

    Meaning: nasty (and usually lengthy) tirade, whether spoken or written.

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    #68

    Vitriolic

    Meaning: bitterly harsh language or criticism.

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    #69

    Bloviate

    Meaning: to speak or write in a showy, grandiose way.

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    #70

    The meaning of word fastidious Fastidious

    Meaning: showing or demanding excessive delicacy or care.

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    #71

    Sycophant

    Meaning: a self-seeking flatterer.

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    #72

    Sesquipedalian

    Meaning: loving of long words.

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    Paddling Panda
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love how this word is significantly shorter than the word for "fear of long words".

    #73

    Boondoggle

    Meaning: work that you do just so that you look busy, but it isn't actually useful.

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    #74

    The meaning of word alacrity Alacrity

    Meaning: lively, cheerful and eager behavior.

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    #75

    Amiable

    Meaning: friendly, sociable, and generally agreeable.

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    Atley Makar
    Community Member
    6 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Interestingly, 'amicable' is only one letter off, yet means the same.

    #76

    Candor

    Meaning: free from prejudice or malice, honest, sincere.

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    #77

    Deferential

    Meaning: showing or expressing respect and high regard due a superior or an elder.

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    #78

    The meaning of word gregarious Gregarious

    Meaning: tending to associate with others of one's kind, social.

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    #79

    Insular

    Meaning: characteristic of an isolated people; an island unto itself.

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    #80

    Intrepid

    Meaning: characterized by resolute fearlessness, fortitude, and endurance.

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    #81

    Meticulous

    Meaning: marked by precise attention to every detail.

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    #82

    The meaning of word panacea Panacea

    Meaning: a remedy for all ills or difficulties.

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    #83

    Pellucid

    Meaning: easily, clearly understandable.

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    #84

    Predilection

    Meaning: an established preference or bias.

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    #85

    Repudiate

    Meaning: to reject or refuse to recognize as valid.

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    #86

    The meaning of word salient Salient

    Meaning: something that stands out and is obvious.

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    #87

    Substantiate

    Meaning: to give facts to support a claim.

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    #88

    Surfeit

    Meaning: the quality of overabundance.

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    #89

    Taciturn

    Meaning: temperamentally disinclined (unwilling because of mild dislike or disapproval) to talk.

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    #90

    The meaning of word stupendous Stupendous

    Meaning: causing astonishment or wonder, marvelous.

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    #91

    Ravishing

    Meaning: unusually attractive, pleasing, or striking.

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    #92

    Exquisite

    Meaning: pleasing through beauty, fitness, or perfection.

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    #93

    Enlightened

    Meaning: freed from ignorance and misinformation.

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    #94

    The meaning of word ingenious Ingenious

    Meaning: having or showing an unusual aptitude for discovering, inventing, or contriving.

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    #95

    Adulation

    Meaning: extreme or excessive admiration or flattery.

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    #96

    Amorous

    Meaning: the act of being in love.

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    #97

    Canonize

    Meaning: to treat as illustrious, preeminent, or sacred.

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    #98

    The meaning of word endearment Endearment

    Meaning: a word or an act (such as a caress) expressing affection.

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    #99

    Halcyon

    Meaning: characterized by happiness, great success, and prosperity.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Most commonly encountered in the phrase "halcyon days", meaning a lost golden age.

    #100

    Coruscate

    Meaning: to be brilliant or showy in technique or style.

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    #101

    Bellwether

    Meaning: one that takes the lead or initiative, trendsetter.

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    #102

    The meaning of word acumen Acumen

    Meaning: keenness and depth of perception, discernment, or discrimination especially in practical matters.

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    #103

    Gasconade

    Meaning: to brag or boast.

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    Kathy Rayborn
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Basic conversation should avoid a cacophony of gratuitous words so that speakers may have equitable rapport.

    #104

    Idiosyncratic

    Meaning: traits that belong to a person’s character.

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    #105

    Umbrage

    Meaning: displeasure, resentment, or anger.

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    #106

    The meaning of word nefarious Nefarious

    Meaning: flagrantly wicked or criminal.

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    #107

    Parlance

    Meaning: formal debate or parley.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also just a synonym of speech. That's how it's used in common parlance.

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    #108

    Despondent

    Meaning: feeling or showing extreme discouragement, dejection (lowness of spirits), or depression.

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    #109

    Lucid

    Meaning: comes from the Latin adjective lucidus (shining), a more fancy word to define a person for his intelligent thinking, capability of being understood or comprehended.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Clarity, especially in thought: "despite encroaching Alzheimer's, she had lucid periods"

    #110

    The meaning of word abate Abate

    Meaning: to decrease in force or intensity.

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    #111

    Facetiously

    Meaning: joking or jesting, often inappropriately.

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    #112

    Aptitude

    Meaning: talent or natural ability.

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    #113

    Debase

    Meaning: to lower in status, esteem, quality, or character.

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    #114

    The meaning of word diligent Diligent

    Meaning: characterized by steady, earnest, and energetic effort.

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    #115

    Elucidate

    Meaning: to explain very clearly.

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    #116

    Ephemeral

    Meaning: lasting a very short time.

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    #117

    Lithe

    Meaning: easily bent or flexed.

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    #118

    The meaning of word modicum Modicum

    Meaning: a small portion; a limited quantity.

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    #119

    Nuance

    Meaning: a very subtle difference.

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    #120

    Penchant

    Meaning: a strong and continued inclination.

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    #121

    Perusal

    Meaning: studying with the intent to memorize.

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    #122

    The meaning of word plethora Plethora

    Meaning: an abundance or extreme excess.

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    #123

    Staid

    Meaning: marked by settled sedateness and often prim self-restraint.

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    #124

    Studious

    Meaning: character trait involving diligent study.

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    #125

    Righteous

    Meaning: acting in accord with divine or moral law, free from guilt or sin.

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    #126

    The meaning of word alluring Alluring

    Meaning: having a strongly attractive or enticing quality.

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    #127

    Astute

    Meaning: having or showing shrewdness and an ability to notice and understand things clearly, mentally sharp.

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    #128

    Perceptive

    Meaning: characterized by sympathetic understanding or insight.

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    #129

    Comprehend

    Meaning: to grasp the nature, significance, or meaning of.

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    #130

    The meaning of word sensational Sensational

    Meaning: exceedingly or unexpectedly excellent or great.

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    #131

    Wondrous

    Meaning: that is to be marveled at, extraordinary.

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    #132

    Devotion

    Meaning: earnest attachment to a cause, person, etc.

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    #133

    Reverence

    Meaning: honor or respect felt or shown, especially profound adoring awed respect.

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    #134

    The meaning of word inflatuated Infatuated

    Meaning: filled with or marked by a foolish or extravagant love or admiration.

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    #135

    Besottedness

    Meaning: blindly or utterly infatuated.

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    Vix Spiderthrust
    Community Member
    2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Besotted means blindly infatuated. Besottedness is the condition of being blindly infatuated.

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    #136

    Scintillating

    Meaning: brilliantly lively, stimulating, or witty.

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    #137

    Cacophony

    Meaning: a loud, obnoxious blend of sounds.

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    #138

    The meaning of word equitable Equitable

    Meaning: a fair division between all parties.

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