Online English Vocabulary Flashcards for High School 17 Words

acquire (verb) /əˈkwaɪər/
Definition: To obtain, gain, or procure something, typically through effort, action, or exchange.
Example Sentence: "He managed to acquire a rare collectible through an online auction."
Synonyms: achieve; attain; collect; earn; gain; gather
Opposite Meaning: lose

arrogance (noun) /ˈær ə gəns/
Definition: An exaggerated or inflated sense of self-importance or superiority.
Example Sentence: "His arrogance prevented him from accepting feedback or considering alternative viewpoints."
Synonyms: conceit; disdain; egotism; haughtiness; hubris; pomposity
Opposite Meaning: humility

attack (verb) /əˈtæk/
Definition: To initiate a hostile or aggressive action towards someone or something.
Example Sentence: "The hackers attempted to attack the company's computer network."
Synonyms: aggress; assail; assault; batter; blitz; bombard
Opposite Meaning: defend

attitude (noun) /ˈæt ɪˌtud/
Definition: A person's outlook, perspective, or disposition towards something or someone.
Example Sentence: "The athlete's determined attitude propelled them to achieve great success."
Synonyms: approach; belief; demeanor; disposition; mentality; mindset
Opposite Meaning: indifference

barrier (noun) /ˈbær i ər/
Definition: A physical, psychological, or conceptual obstruction that prevents or hinders progress, access, or communication.
Example Sentence: "The language barrier made it difficult for the tourist to ask for directions."
Synonyms: barricade; blockade; boundary; encumbrance; fence; hurdle
Opposite Meaning: passage

bunting (noun) /ˈbʌn tɪŋ/
Definition: A type of festive decoration commonly used in celebrations and special events.
Example Sentence: "The colorful bunting fluttered in the breeze, adding a festive touch to the outdoor party."
Synonyms: buntings; decorations; drapes; festoons; flags; flutters
Opposite Meaning: plainness

buxom (adjective) /ˈbʌks(ə)m/
Definition: Full-bodied and curvaceous, particularly in the area of the breasts.
Example Sentence: "The buxom woman drew many admiring glances as she walked down the street."
Synonyms: ample; busty; curvaceous; curvilinear; curvy; plump
Opposite Meaning: flat

cabana (noun) /kəˈbɑːnə/
Definition: A small, often rustic structure that is used for shelter or relaxation, particularly in outdoor settings.
Example Sentence: "We spent the afternoon lounging in the cabana, enjoying the ocean view."
Synonyms: bungalow; casita; chalet; cottage; gazebo; hut
Opposite Meaning: mansion

capitalism (noun) /ˈkæpɪtᵊlɪzᵊm/
Definition: An economic and political system characterized by private ownership of the means of production and the pursuit of profit.
Example Sentence: "In a capitalist system, private ownership is central to economic activities."
Synonyms: business; commerce; economy; individualism; laissez-faire; profit
Opposite Meaning: socialism

comprise (verb) /kəmˈpraɪz/
Definition: To consist of or include something as a part or component.
Example Sentence: "The anthology comprises short stories from various emerging writers."
Synonyms: contain; embody; embrace; enclose; encompass; include
Opposite Meaning: exclude

discharge (verb) /dɪsˈtʃɑrdʒ/
Definition: To release, emit, or expel something, such as a liquid, gas, or substance.
Example Sentence: "The doctor decided to discharge the patient after their condition improved."
Synonyms: dismiss; eject; emit; empty; expel; fire
Opposite Meaning: retain

disempower (verb) /ˌdɪs ɛmˈpaʊ ər/
Definition: To diminish or reduce someone's power, authority, or influence.
Example Sentence: "The legislation could potentially disempower local governments."
Synonyms: debilitate; deprive; devalue; disenfranchise; incapacitate; marginalize
Opposite Meaning: empower

doppelganger (noun) /ˈdɒp(ə)lˌɡaŋə/
Definition: A double or a look-alike of a person, often with supernatural connotations.
Example Sentence: "The actress was stunned to meet her doppelganger at the party."
Synonyms: apparition; clone; counterpart; double; duplicate; facsimile
Opposite Meaning: original

duration (noun) /dʊˈreɪ ʃən/
Definition: The length or period of time that something lasts or continues.
Example Sentence: "The course's duration was three months, allowing for in-depth learning and practice."
Synonyms: extent; interval; length; period; run; span
Opposite Meaning: brevity

ecstatic (adjective) /ɛkˈstæt ɪk/
Definition: Extreme joy, delight, or overwhelming happiness.
Example Sentence: "She was ecstatic to hear that her favorite band was coming to town."
Synonyms: blissful; delighted; elated; enraptured; euphoric; exultant
Opposite Meaning: miserable

endow (verb) /ɪnˈdaʊ/
Definition: To provide something with a particular quality or attribute, usually a positive one.
Example Sentence: "Nature did endow him with a sense of humor to lighten up any situation."
Synonyms: bequeath; bless; enrich; equip; grant; imbue
Opposite Meaning: deprive

endowment (noun) /ɛnˈdaʊ mənt/
Definition: A substantial sum of money, property, or assets that are donated or bequeathed to an organization, institution, or individual for the purpose of providing ongoing financial support.
Example Sentence: "The generous endowment allowed the university to establish a new scholarship program."
Synonyms: benefaction; bequest; contribution; donation; fund; funding
Opposite Meaning: deprivation

ennoble (verb) /ɛnˈnoʊ bəl/
Definition: To elevate or dignify someone or something, typically by bestowing honor, prestige, or a higher social status.
Example Sentence: "The queen decided to ennoble the brave soldier for his acts of valor in battle."
Synonyms: aggrandize; dignify; distinguish; elevate; ennance; enrich
Opposite Meaning: demean

envy (noun) /ˈɛn vi/
Definition: A feeling of discontent, resentment, or longing aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements.
Example Sentence: "She felt a pang of envy as she watched her peers receive awards and accolades."
Synonyms: bitterness; covetousness; desire; discontent; grudge; jealousy
Opposite Meaning: contentment

ethereal (adjective) /ɪˈθɪərɪəl/
Definition: Light, airy, and delicate in a way that suggests it is not of this world.
Example Sentence: "The ethereal mist that enveloped the forest made it feel like a fairy tale."
Synonyms: dainty; fine; formless; ghostly; metaphysical; spiritual
Opposite Meaning: heavy

extent (noun) /ɪkˈstɛnt/
Definition: The degree, scope, or magnitude of something.
Example Sentence: "She wasn't aware of the full extent of his talents until she saw him perform."
Synonyms: amplitude; breadth; degree; dimension; level; magnitude
Opposite Meaning: insignificance

flammable (adjective) flammable
/ˈflaməbl/
Definition: A substance that is easily ignited and capable of catching fire or burning rapidly.
Example Sentence: "The chemical plant had to evacuate when a flammable gas leak was detected."
Synonyms: burnable; combustible; explosive; fiery; ignitable; incendiary
Opposite Meaning: nonflammable

genetic (adjective) /dʒɪnetɪk/
Definition: Relating to genes, which are the hereditary units that carry and transmit the genetic information in living organisms.
Example Sentence: "The child inherited his father's genetic traits, including his eye color and hair texture."
Synonyms: ancestral; biological; chromosomal; genetical; genomic; hereditary
Opposite Meaning: acquired

glorify (verb) /ˈɡlɔːrɪfʌɪ/
Definition: To praise or elevate something or someone to a higher status or level of importance.
Example Sentence: "The poem was designed to glorify nature's unparalleled beauty."
Synonyms: boost; celebrate; eulogize; exalt; extol; honor
Opposite Meaning: denigrate

grasp (verb) /græsp
Definition: To firmly hold or seize something with the hand or hands.
Example Sentence: "The young toddler's tiny fingers tried to grasp the colorful toy."
Synonyms: apprehend; assimilate; clasp; clutch; comprehend; fathom
Opposite Meaning: release

halfhearted (adjective) /ˈhæfˈhɑr tɪd/
Definition: Lacking enthusiasm, commitment, or sincere effort.
Example Sentence: "His halfhearted apology didn't convince anyone of his sincerity."
Synonyms: apathetic; careless; disinterested; indifferent; lackadaisical; lackluster
Opposite Meaning: enthusiastic

immobile (adjective) /ɪˈmoʊ bəl/
Definition: Incapable of movement or unable to be moved easily.
Example Sentence: "The abandoned ship lay immobile in the harbor, covered in rust and seaweed."
Synonyms: dormant; fixed; inert; motionless; rooted; stable
Opposite Meaning: movable

immodest (adjective) /ɪˈmɒdɪst/
Definition: Lacking humility or modesty, often in an inappropriate or excessive way.
Example Sentence: "Her immodest dress was deemed inappropriate for the formal event."
Synonyms: arrogant; boastful; brazen; conceited; egotistical; flamboyant
Opposite Meaning: modest

impermanent (adjective) /ɪmˈpɜr mə nənt/
Definition: Temporary, transitory, or not lasting indefinitely.
Example Sentence: "The beauty of a sunset is fleeting and impermanent, reminding us to cherish the moment."
Synonyms: changing; ephemeral; evanescent; fleeting; fugitive; momentary
Opposite Meaning: permanent

incendiarism (noun) /ɪnˈsɛn di əˌrɪz əm/
Definition: The act or offense of intentionally starting fires, particularly with malicious or criminal intent.
Example Sentence: "The investigators discovered evidence of incendiarism at the scene of the fire."
Synonyms: arson; burning; combustion; conflagration; flaming; ignition
Opposite Meaning: fire-fighting

incision (noun) /ɪnˈsɪʒ ən/
Definition: A cut or surgical wound made on the body's surface or within a body structure during a medical procedure.
Example Sentence: "The doctor used a scalpel to create a precise incision for the biopsy procedure."
Synonyms: break; cut; division; gash; incisura; laceration
Opposite Meaning: closure

incorporate (verb) /ɪnˈkɔr pəˌreɪt/
Definition: To combine or integrate something into a larger whole or system.
Example Sentence: "The musician decided to incorporate elements of jazz and rock into the composition."
Synonyms: absorb; assimilate; blend; combine; embody; fuse
Opposite Meaning: separate

indiscriminately (adverb) /ˌɪn dɪˈskrɪm ə nɪt li/
Definition: To do something without careful consideration, judgment, or discrimination.
Example Sentence: "The artist splashed paint indiscriminately across the canvas, creating a messy abstract painting."
Synonyms: aimlessly; arbitrarily; blindly; carelessly; casually; chaotically
Opposite Meaning: selectively

indoctrination (noun) /ɪnˌdɒk trəˈneɪ ʃən/
Definition: The process of imparting beliefs, ideas, or values to individuals, often in a systematic and persuasive manner, with the intention of shaping their thoughts and behaviors in accordance with a specific ideology or doctrine.
Example Sentence: "The cult used intense indoctrination tactics to isolate and manipulate its members."
Synonyms: brainwashing; conditioning; grooming; implantation; influence; instruction
Opposite Meaning: enlightenment

indulge (verb) /ɪnˈdʌldʒ/
Definition: To allow oneself or others to have or experience something enjoyable or satisfying, often without limits or restraint.
Example Sentence: "It's important to indulge in hobbies and activities that bring us joy and fulfillment."
Synonyms: delight; favor; fulfil; gratify; humor; luxuriate
Opposite Meaning: abstain

infertile (adjective) /ɪnˈfɜr tl/
Definition: Unable to produce or support the growth of offspring, crops, or reproductive processes.
Example Sentence: "The farmer struggled with infertile land, leading to a decline in agricultural productivity."
Synonyms: barren; fruitless; impotent; nonfertile; nonproductive; sterile
Opposite Meaning: fertile

inflammatory (adjective) /ɪnˈflæm əˌtɔr i/
Definition: Intended or likely to arouse strong emotions, particularly anger, hostility, or outrage.
Example Sentence: "The article contained several inflammatory statements designed to provoke readers."
Synonyms: agitating; confrontational; contentious; divisive; incendiary; inflaming
Opposite Meaning: calming

inlet (noun) /ˈɪn lɛt/
Definition: A narrow body of water, channel, or passage that connects a larger body of water, such as a sea, lake, or river, with a smaller area or landmass.
Example Sentence: "The fishing boat entered the inlet to seek shelter from the storm."
Synonyms: bay; channel; cove; creek; estuary; fjord
Opposite Meaning: outlet

inordinate (adjective) /ɪˈnɔːdɪnət/
Definition: Excessive, immoderate, or beyond what is considered reasonable or normal in quantity, size, degree, or extent.
Example Sentence: "We waited an inordinate amount of time for a table at the restaurant."
Synonyms: disproportionate; excessive; exorbitant; extravagant; extreme; imbalanced
Opposite Meaning: moderate

intimidating (adjective) /ɪnˈtɪm ɪˌdeɪ tɪŋ/
Definition: Evoking feelings of fear, apprehension, or unease.
Example Sentence: "His towering presence and piercing gaze were intimidating to many."
Synonyms: bullying; chilling; daunting; dismaying; fearsome; formidable
Opposite Meaning: comforting

irresolute (adjective) /ɪˈrɛz əˌlut/
Definition: Lacking firmness, determination, or the ability to make decisive choices.
Example Sentence: "She seemed irresolute about whether to accept the job offer."
Synonyms: ambivalent; dithering; doubtful; faltering; hesitant; indecisive
Opposite Meaning: determined

justice (noun) /ˈdʒʌs tɪs/
Definition: The principles of fairness, righteousness, and impartiality in the realm of law and moral conduct.
Example Sentence: "The scales of justice symbolize the balance between right and wrong."
Synonyms: equity; fairness; impartiality; integrity; justness; lawfulness
Opposite Meaning: injustice

kelvin (noun) /ˈkɛlvɪn/
Definition: The standard unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI).
Example Sentence: "Absolute zero is defined as 0 Kelvin."
Synonyms: degree; gauge; gradation; increment; indicator; level
Opposite Meaning: fahrenheit

loathsome (adjective) /ˈloʊð səm/
Definition: Extremely repulsive, disgusting, or detestable.
Example Sentence: "The loathsome stench of the sewage filled the entire neighborhood."
Synonyms: abhorrent; contemptible; despicable; detestable; disgusting; nauseating
Opposite Meaning: delightful

master (verb) /ˈmæs tər/
Definition: To acquire a comprehensive understanding, proficiency, or control over a particular skill, subject, or domain.
Example Sentence: "She practiced diligently to master the piano piece for the recital."
Synonyms: achieve; acquire; attain; command; comprehend; conquer
Opposite Meaning: fail

misinterpretation (noun) /ˌmɪsɪnˌtɜːprəˈteɪʃᵊn/
Definition: The act or process of understanding or comprehending something incorrectly or inaccurately.
Example Sentence: "The translator was careful to avoid any misinterpretation of the speaker's comments."
Synonyms: confusion; distortion; error; misapprehension; miscalculation; miscomprehension
Opposite Meaning: understanding

mistrustfully (adverb) /ˌmɪsˈtrʌstfʊli/
Definition: Performed with a sense of suspicion, skepticism, or lack of trust.
Example Sentence: "She glanced mistrustfully at the stranger standing in the corner."
Synonyms: apprehensively; cynically; doubtfully; dubiously; guardedly; questioningly
Opposite Meaning: trustfully

monotony (noun) /məˈnɒt n i/
Definition: A state or quality of being dull, repetitive, and lacking in variety or excitement.
Example Sentence: "She sought to break the monotony of her routine by trying out new hobbies."
Synonyms: boredom; drudgery; dullness; mundanity; predictability; repetitiveness
Opposite Meaning: variety

mutual (adjective) /mjuːtʃuəl/
Definition: Shared or experienced by two or more individuals or groups.
Example Sentence: "The couple made a mutual decision to end their relationship amicably."
Synonyms: bilateral; collective; common; cooperative; corresponding; interactive
Opposite Meaning: exclusive

muzzle (verb) /ˈmʌz əl/
Definition: To place a device or covering over the mouth or snout of an animal or person, typically to prevent them from biting, barking, or speaking.
Example Sentence: "The new legislation is said to muzzle the press by imposing stringent regulations."
Synonyms: curb; gag; hush; muffle; quiet; restrain
Opposite Meaning: unbind

nab (verb) /næb/
Definition: To capture, seize, or apprehend someone or something, typically in a sudden or unexpected manner.
Example Sentence: "The police officer managed to nab the thief after a high-speed chase."
Synonyms: acquire; apprehend; capture; catch; detain; ensnare
Opposite Meaning: release

necropsy (noun) /ˈnɛk rɒp si/
Definition: A postmortem examination or autopsy performed on an animal, particularly non-human creatures.
Example Sentence: "The zoo requested a necropsy on the deceased lion to investigate its unexpected demise."
Synonyms: analysis; autopsy; dissection; evaluation; examination; inspection
Opposite Meaning: concealment

notwithstanding (preposition) /ˌnɒt wɪðˈstæn dɪŋ/
Definition: Indicating an exception or contrast to a previous statement or condition.
Example Sentence: "He remained confident, notwithstanding the negative feedback he received."
Synonyms: although; anyway; despite; however; nevertheless; nonetheless
Opposite Meaning: because of

numbskull (noun) /ˈnʌmˌskʌl/
Definition: A person who is considered foolish, stupid, or lacking intelligence.
Example Sentence: "He's a numbskull for investing all his money in that obviously fraudulent scheme."
Synonyms: blockhead; bonehead; buffoon; dimwit; dolt; dunce
Opposite Meaning: genius

occupy (verb) /ˈɒk yəˌpaɪ/
Definition: To take control, possession, or ownership of a place, area, or space.
Example Sentence: "The students occupy the classroom during school hours."
Synonyms: control; dominate; engage; ensconce; fill; inhabit
Opposite Meaning: vacate

optics (noun) /ˈɒp tɪks/
Definition: The way in which an event or course of action is perceived by the public.
Example Sentence: "The CEO's resignation had terrible optics for the company's stock prices."
Synonyms: appearance; image; impression; outlook; perception; perspective
Opposite Meaning: disregard

paraphernalia (noun) /ˌparəfəˈneɪlɪə/
Definition: A collection of equipment, tools, or other items used for a particular purpose or activity.
Example Sentence: "The trade show booth was adorned with promotional paraphernalia."
Synonyms: apparatus; appurtenances; belongings; equipage; gear; impedimenta
Opposite Meaning: absence

penetrate (verb) /ˈpɛnɪtreɪt/
Definition: To enter or pass through a physical or metaphorical barrier, obstacle, or surface.
Example Sentence: "The burglar was able to penetrate the building's security system undetected."
Synonyms: access; bore; breach; enter; impale; infiltrate
Opposite Meaning: repel

piecemeal (adverb) /ˈpiːsmiːl/
Definition: Done or happening in a gradual or incremental manner, involving the completion of individual parts or tasks one at a time, rather than all at once.
Example Sentence: "The employee's workload was assigned piecemeal, with tasks given out as they arose."
Synonyms: fragmented; incremental; intermittent; interrupted; partially; phased
Opposite Meaning: whole

plague (verb) /pleɪɡ/
Definition: To cause trouble, annoyance, or distress to someone or something, usually persistently or continuously.
Example Sentence: "The company's financial problems continue to plague them."
Synonyms: badger; bother; harass; harry; hassle; haunt
Opposite Meaning: soothe

plea (noun) /pli/
Definition: An earnest and emotional request or appeal made by an individual to another person, authority, or entity.
Example Sentence: "The defendant made a heartfelt plea for leniency during the sentencing hearing."
Synonyms: appeal; application; cry; entreaty; imploration; invocation
Opposite Meaning: command

potpourri (noun) /ˌpoʊ pʊˈri/
Definition: A mixture or collection of diverse elements, often used in reference to a blend of various fragrant substances.
Example Sentence: "The concert was a potpourri of classical, jazz, and contemporary music."
Synonyms: array; assortment; blend; collection; combination; conglomeration
Opposite Meaning: uniformity

practitioner (noun) /prækˈtɪʃ ə nər/
Definition: An individual who engages in a specific profession, occupation, or field of expertise, applying their skills, knowledge, and experience to provide services or perform activities within that domain.
Example Sentence: "The healthcare practitioner diligently assessed the patient's symptoms and provided a precise diagnosis."
Synonyms: adviser; caregiver; clinician; consultant; expert; healer
Opposite Meaning: amateur

recumbent (adjective) /rɪˈkʌmb(ə)nt/
Definition: In a reclining or lying-down position, often referring to a person or object that is resting horizontally or at a gentle incline.
Example Sentence: "The recumbent position of the patient was a sign of severe exhaustion."
Synonyms: flat; horizontal; leaning; level; prone; prostrate
Opposite Meaning: upright

specialist (noun) /ˈspɛʃ ə lɪst/
Definition: An individual who has expert knowledge, skills, or training in a particular field or area of expertise.
Example Sentence: "The patient was referred to a cardiac specialist for further evaluation of their heart condition."
Synonyms: adept; authority; connoisseur; consultant; expert; guru
Opposite Meaning: generalist

stockpile (noun) /ˈstɒkˌpaɪl/
Definition: A large accumulation or reserve of goods, materials, or resources that are kept for future use or as a contingency.
Example Sentence: "The survivalist had a stockpile of canned food and water in their basement."
Synonyms: accumulation; backlog; cache; collection; heap; hoard
Opposite Meaning: deplete

stoop (verb) /stup/
Definition: To bend one's body forward and downward, often by curving the back and shoulders.
Example Sentence: "She refused to stoop to their level by engaging in petty gossip."
Synonyms: bend; bow; crouch; descend; duck; hunch
Opposite Meaning: straighten

submarine (adjective) /ˌsʌb məˈrin/
Definition: Relating to or characteristic of a submarine or the underwater environment.
Example Sentence: "The submarine expedition discovered a new species of deep-sea fish."
Synonyms: belowground; subaquatic; subaqueous; submerged; submersed; submersible
Opposite Meaning: above-ground

temerity (noun) /tɪˈmɛrɪti/
Definition: A reckless or bold disregard for danger or social conventions, often accompanied by a lack of caution or prudence.
Example Sentence: "The thief had the temerity to rob a bank in broad daylight."
Synonyms: audacity; boldness; brass; cheek; chutzpah; foolhardiness
Opposite Meaning: caution

uncharacteristic (adjective) /ˌʌnkærɪktəˈrɪstɪk/
Definition: Not typical, usual, or consistent with a person's or thing's established behavior, qualities, or patterns.
Example Sentence: "It was uncharacteristic of the usually punctual employee to arrive late for work."
Synonyms: aberrant; abnormal; atypical; deviant; irregular; odd
Opposite Meaning: typical

unnatural (adjective) /ʌnˈnætʃ ər əl/
Definition: Deviating from what is considered normal, usual, or expected in the natural world.
Example Sentence: "The politician's behavior during the debate seemed forced and unnatural."
Synonyms: aberrant; abnormal; anomalous; artificial; atypical; bizarre
Opposite Meaning: natural

vindication (noun) /ˌvɪn dɪˈkeɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act of clearing someone's name, reputation, or proving their innocence after being falsely accused or criticized.
Example Sentence: "After years of false accusations, his vindication came when the true culprit was caught."
Synonyms: absolution; acquittal; approval; confirmation; corroboration; exoneration
Opposite Meaning: condemnation

virtual (adjective) /ˈvɜr tʃu əl/
Definition: Existing or operating in a simulated, computer-generated, or digital environment rather than in the physical or tangible realm.
Example Sentence: "The virtual tour allowed prospective buyers to explore the property without being physically present."
Synonyms: artificial; computerized; cyber; digital; electronic; online
Opposite Meaning: real

vulnerable (adjective) /ˈvʌln(ə)rəbl/
Definition: Open to harm, attack, or damage, either physically or emotionally.
Example Sentence: "The company was vulnerable to a cyber attack because of weak security measures."
Synonyms: assailable; defenseless; exposed; prone; sensitive; susceptible
Opposite Meaning: protected

whale (verb) /weɪl, ʰweɪl/
Definition: To strike or thrash repeatedly and forcefully.
Example Sentence: "Angrily, she would whale the mattress to get rid of the dust."
Synonyms: assail; batter; beat; buffet; hammer; lash
Opposite Meaning: protect