Online English Vocabulary Flashcards for SAT 20 (Scholastic Assessment Test) Words

abound (verb) /əˈbaʊnd/
Definition: To exist or occur in large quantities or numbers.
Example Sentence: "The bustling city streets abound with pedestrians and vehicles."
Synonyms: brim; bristle; flourish; multiply; overflow; proliferate
Opposite Meaning: lack

abreast (adverb) /əˈbrɛst/
Definition: Two or more objects, people or concepts that are positioned side-by-side or advancing simultaneously.
Example Sentence: "The soldiers marched abreast in perfect formation."
Synonyms: alongside; beside; concomitant; concurrent; equal; level
Opposite Meaning: behind

acquiescence (noun) /ˌæk wiˈɛs əns/
Definition: The act of accepting or yielding to something without protest or resistance.
Example Sentence: "The company's acquiescence to the demands of the union workers prevented a strike."
Synonyms: acceptance; agreement; assent; compliance; concession; conformity
Opposite Meaning: resistance

agnosticism (noun) /ægˈnɒs təˌsɪz əm/
Definition: A philosophical or theological standpoint characterized by the belief that the existence or nature of a higher power or ultimate truth is unknown, unknowable, or inherently beyond human comprehension.
Example Sentence: "Agnosticism fosters an open-minded and skeptical approach to matters of faith and belief."
Synonyms: ambivalence; doubt; hesitancy; hesitation; incredulity; indecision
Opposite Meaning: certainty

allude (verb) /əˈl(j)uːd/
Definition: To make an indirect reference or suggestion to something without stating it directly.
Example Sentence: "The song's lyrics allude to a failed relationship."
Synonyms: hint; imply; indicate; infer; insinuate; intimate
Opposite Meaning: ignore

ambiguous (adjective) /amˈbɪɡjʊəs/
Definition: Open to multiple interpretations, unclear, or lacking a definite or precise meaning.
Example Sentence: "His statement was intentionally ambiguous to avoid taking a clear stance on the issue."
Synonyms: cryptic; equivocal; inconclusive; indefinite; indeterminate; puzzling
Opposite Meaning: clear

apogee (noun) /ˈapədʒiː/
Definition: The pinnacle or the highest point in the development, progress, or success of something,
Example Sentence: "The Renaissance is often seen as the apogee of European art and culture."
Synonyms: acme; apex; climax; crest; crown; culmination
Opposite Meaning: nadir

apolitical (adjective) /ˌeɪpəˈlɪtɪkəl/
Definition: Characterized by a lack of interest, involvement, or engagement in political matters, discussions, or affiliations.
Example Sentence: "She preferred to stay apolitical and not engage in political discussions."
Synonyms: impartial; indifferent; neutral; nonpartisan; objective; unaffiliated
Opposite Meaning: activist

apothegm (noun) /ˈæp əˌθɛm/
Definition: A concise, memorable, and insightful saying or maxim that conveys a profound or moral truth.
Example Sentence: "The wise elder often shared apothegms with the younger members of the community."
Synonyms: adage; aphorism; byword; dictum; epigram; maxim
Opposite Meaning: verbosity

baluster (noun) /ˈbæl ə stər/
Definition: A vertical or upright pillar or post, typically cylindrical or slightly tapered in shape.
Example Sentence: "The elegant staircase was adorned with intricately carved wooden balusters."
Synonyms: column; picket; pillar; post; rod; shaft
Opposite Meaning: flat surface

bilious (adjective) /ˈbɪlɪəs/
Definition: Characterized by irritability, ill humor, or a propensity to become easily agitated or angered.
Example Sentence: "The bilious tone of the letter made it clear the writer was angry."
Synonyms: angry; cantankerous; choleric; crabby; cross; grumpy
Opposite Meaning: amiable

bovine (adjective) /ˈbəʊvʌɪn/
Definition: Pertaining to or resembling cattle, particularly in terms of their characteristics, behavior, or appearance.
Example Sentence: "The farmer led his bovine herd to the milking station."
Synonyms: bland; cattle; cow; docile; dull; lumbering
Opposite Meaning: feline

careen (verb) /kəˈriːn/
Definition: To tilt, sway, or lurch to one side, typically in an uncontrolled manner.
Example Sentence: "Watch as the skateboarders careen down the hill with remarkable speed."
Synonyms: bend; incline; keel; lean; list; lurch
Opposite Meaning: stabilize

clergy (noun) /ˈklɜr dʒi/
Definition: A distinct group of individuals within a religious community who have received formal religious training and are authorized to perform religious ceremonies, lead worship services, provide spiritual guidance, and administer sacraments.
Example Sentence: "The bishop ordained three new members into the clergy."
Synonyms: bishops; clerics; imams; ministers; monks; nuns
Opposite Meaning: laypersons

compos-mentis (adjective) /ˌkɒmpɒs ˈmɛntɪs/
Definition: Mentally sound and capable of making rational decisions.
Example Sentence: "He was declared compos mentis and fit to stand trial."
Synonyms: balanced; coherent; healthy; levelheaded; lucid; normal
Opposite Meaning: irrational

conjuring (noun) /ˈkʌndʒərɪŋ/
Definition: The practice, art, or performance of using sleight of hand, illusion, or other forms of trickery to entertain, amaze, or deceive an audience.
Example Sentence: "We watched in awe as the illusionist executed his intricate conjuring routine."
Synonyms: enchantment; illusion; legerdemain; magic; necromancy; prestidigitation
Opposite Meaning: reality

contravention (noun) /ˌkɒn trəˈvɛn ʃən/
Definition: The act of violating or breaching a law, rule, regulation, agreement, or principle.
Example Sentence: "The company's actions were in direct contravention of environmental regulations."
Synonyms: breach; defiance; disobedience; flouting; infraction; infringement
Opposite Meaning: obedience

coppice (noun) /ˈkɒp ɪs/
Definition: A managed woodland or forest consisting of trees or shrubs that are regularly cut down to the base to encourage vigorous regrowth.
Example Sentence: "The woodcutter ventured into the coppice, ready to harvest timber for the upcoming winter."
Synonyms: boscage; brake; brush; brushwood; copse; forest
Opposite Meaning: plain

cornice (noun) /ˈkɔːnɪs/
Definition: The decorative molding that crowns the uppermost part of a building's exterior wall.
Example Sentence: "The historic mansion was adorned with an elaborate cornice that added to its grandeur."
Synonyms: adornment; border; eave; edging; embellishment; fascia
Opposite Meaning: base

corpse (noun) /kɔrps/
Definition: The lifeless body of a deceased human or animal.
Example Sentence: "The detective carefully examined the corpse for any clues that could help solve the murder case."
Synonyms: body; cadaver; carcass; dead; deceased; mortality
Opposite Meaning: living

coterie (noun) /ˈkəʊt(ə)ri/
Definition: A small, exclusive group of people who share a common interest, goal or activity.
Example Sentence: "The musician had a coterie of dedicated fans who followed him from city to city."
Synonyms: cabal; camp; circle; clique; community; crowd
Opposite Meaning: crowd

covetousness (noun) /ˈkʌv ɪ təs nɪs/
Definition: An intense desire or longing to possess or acquire something that belongs to someone else.
Example Sentence: "Her covetousness for designer clothing led her to accumulate excessive debt."
Synonyms: acquisitiveness; appetite; avarice; craving; desire; envy
Opposite Meaning: contentment

delinquent (adjective) /dɪˈlɪŋkw(ə)nt/
Definition: Failure to conform to accepted norms and standards, especially in the context of the law or social expectations.
Example Sentence: "The school has a program for delinquent students who need extra support."
Synonyms: anarchic; defiant; disobedient; errant; erring; insubordinate
Opposite Meaning: compliant

deviation (noun) /ˌdi viˈeɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act or instance of departing from a standard, norm, expectation, or established course or pattern.
Example Sentence: "The experiment showed a significant deviation from the expected results."
Synonyms: aberration; anomaly; departure; difference; digression; discrepancy
Opposite Meaning: conformity

disposition (noun) /dɪspəˈzɪʃ(ə)n/
Definition: A person's natural attitude or tendency towards a particular thing, activity, or behavior.
Example Sentence: "The employee's cheerful disposition made them a joy to work with."
Synonyms: attitude; character; demeanor; inclination; mindset; mood
Opposite Meaning: aversion

dissension (noun) /dɪˈsɛn ʃən/
Definition: A state or act of disagreement, discord, or conflict among individuals or groups within a particular organization, community, or society.
Example Sentence: "The dissension among the team members hindered their ability to work together effectively."
Synonyms: conflict; contention; controversy; disagreement; discord; disharmony
Opposite Meaning: harmony

double-entendre (noun) /ˈdʌb əl ɑnˈtɑn drə/
Definition: A double meaning, often intentionally, where one interpretation is innocent or straightforward, and the other carries a more risqué, suggestive, or humorous connotation.
Example Sentence: "The advertisement relied on a subtle double entendre to create intrigue and capture the viewers' attention."
Synonyms: allusion; ambiguity; connotation; entendre; implication; innuendo
Opposite Meaning: clarity

embitter (verb) /ɛmˈbɪt ər/
Definition: To cause someone to feel bitter, resentful, or angry towards a person, situation, or event.
Example Sentence: "Constant failure and rejection can embitter even the most optimistic person."
Synonyms: aggravate; anger; antagonize; dishearten; envenom; infuriate
Opposite Meaning: please

equestrian (noun) /ɪˈkwɛstrɪən/
Definition: Anything relating to horseback riding, horse racing or horsemanship.
Example Sentence: "The equestrian park had a variety of trails for horseback riding."
Synonyms: cavalryman; equine; horseman; horsewoman; horsey; jockey
Opposite Meaning: pedestrian

glorification (noun) /ˌglɔr ə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act or process of elevating or praising someone or something to a higher status or level of admiration.
Example Sentence: "The advertising campaign relied on the glorification of luxury and exclusivity to attract customers."
Synonyms: adoration; apotheosis; elevation; exaltation; homage; idolization
Opposite Meaning: condemnation

idealization (noun) /aɪˌdi ə ləˈzeɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act or process of regarding someone or something as perfect, ideal, or without flaws.
Example Sentence: "His constant idealization of his partner blinded him to her flaws and prevented him from seeing the reality of the relationship."
Synonyms: adoration; apotheosis; deification; exaltation; glorification; glorifying
Opposite Meaning: disparagement

idolatry (noun) /ʌɪˈdɒlətri/
Definition: The worship, veneration, or excessive admiration of idols, images, or objects as if they were divine or possessed supernatural powers.
Example Sentence: "The idolatry of money is a common theme in modern society."
Synonyms: adoration; adulation; cult; deification; devotion; exaltation
Opposite Meaning: disdain

impervious (adjective) /ɪmˈpəːvɪəs/
Definition: Resistant or unaffected by external influences, forces, or factors.
Example Sentence: "The fortress was considered impervious to attack."
Synonyms: immune; impenetrable; impermeable; insusceptible; invulnerable; resistant
Opposite Meaning: susceptible

inconspicuous (adjective) /ˌɪnkənˈspɪkjʊəs/
Definition: Not easily noticeable or attracting little attention due to a discreet or unobtrusive nature.
Example Sentence: "He tried to be inconspicuous as he followed the suspect."
Synonyms: camouflaged; concealed; discreet; hidden; plain; unassuming
Opposite Meaning: conspicuous

indemnification (noun) /ɪnˌdɛm nə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act or process of compensating or protecting someone from loss, damage, or liability.
Example Sentence: "The insurance policy provided indemnification for medical expenses resulting from accidents."
Synonyms: amends; compensation; payback; recompense; recoupment; redress
Opposite Meaning: liability

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

keepsake (noun) /ˈkipˌseɪk/
Definition: An item, object, or memento that holds sentimental value and is cherished for its connection to a person, event, or memory.
Example Sentence: "She held onto the necklace as a cherished keepsake from her grandmother."
Synonyms: heirloom; memento; memorial; memorialization; memory; momento
Opposite Meaning: trash

laissez-faire (noun) /ˌleɪseɪˈfɛː/
Definition: A policy or attitude of non-interference or minimal government intervention.
Example Sentence: "The laissez-faire attitude towards business has led to rapid economic growth."
Synonyms: indifference; individualism; laxity; minimalism; noninterference; nonintervention
Opposite Meaning: intervention

legless (adjective) /lɛɡlɪs/
Definition: Extremely intoxicated or drunk to the point of being unable to stand or walk properly.
Example Sentence: "The pub was full of rowdy patrons, many of whom ended up legless by the end of the evening."
Synonyms: blitzed; hammered; inebriated; intoxicated; plastered; sloshed
Opposite Meaning: sober

liability (noun) /ˌlaɪ əˈbɪl ɪ ti/
Definition: The legal and financial responsibility or obligation that an individual or entity holds for their actions or debts.
Example Sentence: "As a driver, you have a liability to follow traffic laws and ensure the safety of others."
Synonyms: accountability; burden; charge; commitment; debt; disadvantage
Opposite Meaning: asset

lubricate (verb) /ˈluːbrɪkeɪt/
Definition: To add a substance, often oil or grease, to reduce friction and facilitate smooth movement of mechanical parts or surfaces that rub against each other.
Example Sentence: "We lubricate the chains of the swing set to ensure safe operation."
Synonyms: anoint; coat; grease; hydrate; lard; lube
Opposite Meaning: stiffen

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

modesty (noun) /ˈmɒd ə sti/
Definition: The quality or state of having a humble and unassuming attitude towards one's achievements, abilities, or appearance.
Example Sentence: "She accepted the award with modesty, expressing gratitude to her team for their support."
Synonyms: decency; discretion; humbleness; humility; meekness; propriety
Opposite Meaning: arrogance

momentous (adjective) /məˈmɛntəs/
Definition: Of significant importance, marked by its far-reaching consequences or potential to bring about profound change.
Example Sentence: "The moon landing was a momentous achievement for humanity."
Synonyms: consequential; eventful; fateful; historic; meaningful; monumental
Opposite Meaning: trivial

nautical (adjective) /ˈnɔːtɪkl/
Definition: Relating to ships, sailing, or the sea.
Example Sentence: "The nautical charts were essential for navigation on the open sea."
Synonyms: aquatic; boating; marine; maritime; naval; oceanic
Opposite Meaning: inland

newel (noun) /ˈnu əl/
Definition: A central, supporting pillar or post found at the bottom or top of a staircase.
Example Sentence: "The spiral staircase had a decorative iron newel at its center."
Synonyms: baluster; column; picket; pillar; pole; post
Opposite Meaning: end

nostrum (noun) /ˈnɒstrəm/
Definition: A supposed cure or remedy for a particular problem, often one that is unproven or ineffective.
Example Sentence: "Many people fall prey to the allure of a quick-fix nostrum for weight loss."
Synonyms: catholicon; cure; drug; elixir; medicine; panacea
Opposite Meaning: problem

orbicular (adjective) /ɔːˈbɪkjʊlə/
Definition: Spherical or circular in shape.
Example Sentence: "The beach was adorned with smooth, orbicular stones."
Synonyms: annular; circular; cyclical; discoid; globular; round
Opposite Meaning: square

partisan (adjective) /ˈpɑːtɪzan/
Definition: Pertaining to a strong and unwavering allegiance or support for a specific political party, ideology, cause, or group.
Example Sentence: "The journalist's reporting was criticized for being overly partisan and lacking objectivity."
Synonyms: adherent; affiliated; biased; devoted; factional; fervent
Opposite Meaning: neutral

peddler (noun) /ˈpɛd lə/
Definition: An individual who engages in the act of selling or trading goods, typically by traveling from place to place rather than operating from a fixed location.
Example Sentence: "The old peddler's cart was filled with colorful fabrics and trinkets."
Synonyms: dealer; hawker; marketeer; merchant; purveyor; pusher
Opposite Meaning: purchaser

pro-rata (adverb) /prəʊ ˈrɑːtə/
Definition: To describe a method of allocating or distributing something based on a proportion or ratio.
Example Sentence: "The company distributed the profits pro rata among the shareholders."
Synonyms: allocated; apportioned; distributed; divided; fractionally; partly
Opposite Meaning: equally

railing (noun) /ˈreɪ lɪŋ/
Definition: A protective barrier or structure typically made of wood, metal, or other materials that is used as a safety measure or to enclose a specific area.
Example Sentence: "The rusty iron railing served as a barrier between the sidewalk and the busy street."
Synonyms: balustrade; banister; barricade; barrier; enclosure; fence
Opposite Meaning: opening

reconciliation (noun) /ˌrɛk ənˌsɪl iˈeɪ ʃən/
Definition: The act or process of restoring or reestablishing friendly and harmonious relationships between individuals or groups after a disagreement, conflict, or period of estrangement.
Example Sentence: "Many individuals find solace and closure through the process of reconciliation."
Synonyms: accord; agreement; amity; compromise; conciliation; harmony
Opposite Meaning: estrangement

remorseless (adjective) /rɪˈmɔrs lɪs/
Definition: Lacking any sense of remorse, regret, or guilt for their actions or the consequences they inflict upon others.
Example Sentence: "His remorseless ambition led him to trample over anyone in his path to success."
Synonyms: callous; cruel; heartless; inhumane; merciless; pitiless
Opposite Meaning: remorseful

rueful (adjective) /ˈruːfʊl/
Definition: Expressing regret or remorse for something someone has done or failed to do.
Example Sentence: "She gave a rueful apology for her mistake."
Synonyms: apologetic; contrite; melancholy; mournful; penitent; repentant
Opposite Meaning: unapologetic

rumbustious (adjective) /rʌmˈbʌstʃəs/
Definition: Noisy, boisterous, and full of unruly energy, excitement or commotion.
Example Sentence: "The party was filled with rumbustious energy and excitement."
Synonyms: clamorous; disorderly; lively; noisy; rambunctious; raucous
Opposite Meaning: calm

sardonic (adjective) /sɑːˈdɒnɪk/
Definition: Characterized by a mocking, cynical, or ironic sense of humor.
Example Sentence: "He wrote a sardonic review of the resteraunt after he found a hair in his starter."
Synonyms: acerbic; acrid; bitter; caustic; derisive; jeering
Opposite Meaning: affable

satiate (verb) /ˈseɪ ʃiˌeɪt/
Definition: To fully satisfy or fulfill one's appetite, desires, or needs.
Example Sentence: "She indulged in her favorite chocolate cake to satiate her sweet tooth."
Synonyms: satisfy; fulfill; quench; gratify; appease; sate
Opposite Meaning: deprive

saturated (adjective) /ˈsætʃ əˌreɪ tɪd/
Definition: Filled or soaked to its maximum capacity.
Example Sentence: "After the heavy rain, the ground became saturated with water."
Synonyms: brimming; complete; drenched; engorged; filled; full
Opposite Meaning: dry

saturnine (adjective) /ˈsatənʌɪn/
Definition: Characterized by a gloomy, moody, or melancholic disposition, often marked by a serious or stern demeanor.
Example Sentence: "The saturnine atmosphere of the city was largely due to the constant overcast weather."
Synonyms: austere; brooding; dour; downcast; glum; introspective
Opposite Meaning: cheerful

seismology (noun) /saɪzˈmɒl ə dʒi/
Definition: The scientific study of earthquakes and the behavior of seismic waves.
Example Sentence: "The seismology team analyzed the data to determine the magnitude of the earthquake."
Synonyms: geodesy; geodynamics; geophysics; geoscience; geoseismology; quakeology
Opposite Meaning: meteorology

solute (noun) /ˈsɒl yut/
Definition: A substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a homogeneous mixture called a solution.
Example Sentence: "Increasing the amount of solute in the solution resulted in a higher viscosity."
Synonyms: additive; chemical; component; compound; element; entity
Opposite Meaning: solvent

somnolent (adjective) /ˈsɑmnələnt/
Definition: Drowsiness, sleepiness, or a general feeling of lethargy and tiredness.
Example Sentence: "The somnolent atmosphere in the room was perfect for an afternoon nap."
Synonyms: dozy; dull; hypnotic; lethargic; narcotic; sedative
Opposite Meaning: alert

subconscious (noun) /ˌsʌbˈkɒnʃəs/
Definition: The part of the mind that is responsible for processing information that is not currently in conscious awareness.
Example Sentence: "Our subconscious thoughts and desires can emerge in our dreams."
Synonyms: automatic; conditioned; hidden; instinctive; involuntary; latent
Opposite Meaning: conscious

subjective (adjective) /səbˈdʒɛktɪv/
Definition: Based on personal opinions, feelings, or beliefs, rather than on facts or evidence.
Example Sentence: "His opinion was subjective, based on his own personal experiences."
Synonyms: biased; emotional; impressionistic; individual; instinctive; intuitive
Opposite Meaning: objective

suffuse (verb) /səˈfjuːz/
Definition: To spread or diffuse something throughout a space or an object, typically referring to the gradual and even distribution of a substance, emotion, or quality.
Example Sentence: "Sunlight began to suffuse the room, chasing away the shadows."
Synonyms: bathe; cover; fill; flood; imbue; infuse
Opposite Meaning: drain

superficial (adjective) /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl/
Definition: Shallow, lacking in depth, or concerned only with surface appearances rather than deeper qualities or meanings.
Example Sentence: "The movie's plot was criticized for its superficial treatment of important social issues."
Synonyms: cosmetic; depthless; empty; facile; frivolous; limited
Opposite Meaning: profound

syphon (noun) /ˈsaɪfən/
Definition: A tube or pipe used to transfer liquids from one container to another by means of atmospheric pressure and gravity.
Example Sentence: "The mechanic used a syphon to remove the old oil from the car's engine."
Synonyms: channel; conduit; duct; funnel; hose; pipe
Opposite Meaning: source

tessellate (verb) /ˈtɛsəleɪt/
Definition: To cover a surface with a repeated pattern of geometric shapes that fit together perfectly without any gaps or overlaps.
Example Sentence: "The puzzle pieces tessellate to form a complete picture."
Synonyms: arrange; interlock; intersperse; interweave; mesh; mosaic
Opposite Meaning: disarrange

tranquilize (verb) /ˈtræŋ kwəˌlaɪz/
Definition: To induce a state of calmness, relaxation, or sedation in someone or something.
Example Sentence: "The vet needed to tranquilize the agitated tiger before moving it to a new enclosure."
Synonyms: appease; calm; compose; lull; pacify; quiet
Opposite Meaning: agitate

unmitigated (adjective) /ʌnˈmɪtɪɡeɪtɪd/
Definition: Complete, absolute, or without any qualifications or limitations.
Example Sentence: "The company's unmitigated commitment to quality led to its rapid growth in the market."
Synonyms: arrant; outright; pure; sheer; thorough; total
Opposite Meaning: mitigated

upscale (adjective) /ˈʌpˈskeɪl/
Definition: Associated with higher quality, luxury, or a higher social class.
Example Sentence: "The upscale boutique offered a selection of designer clothing and accessories."
Synonyms: chic; deluxe; elegant; exclusive; fancy; luxurious
Opposite Meaning: low-end

vicinity (noun) /vəˈsɪnəti/
Definition: The area or region that surrounds a particular place or location.
Example Sentence: "There are several restaurants in the vicinity of the hotel."
Synonyms: environs; immediacy; locality; neighborhood; propinquity; proximity
Opposite Meaning: distance

volucrine (adjective) /ˈvɒljʊˌkraɪn/
Definition: Relating to or resembling a bird or birds in nature.
Example Sentence: "The artist captured the volucrine beauty of the eagle in his stunning painting."
Synonyms: aerial; airborne; avian; birdlike; breezy; ethereal
Opposite Meaning: mammalian

whimsical (adjective) /ˈwɪmzɪkl/
Definition: Fanciful, playful, and characterized by an element of capricious or unpredictable charm.
Example Sentence: "The artist's work was known for its whimsical, imaginative style."
Synonyms: capricious; fanciful; mercurial; peculiar; playful; quaint
Opposite Meaning: predictable