ACT 15 (American College Testing) Vocabulary – Online Spelling Bee

Spell: accord (verb) /əˈkɔːd/
Definition: To reach or grant an agreement or settlement between two or more parties.
Example Sentence: "Can we accord on a compromise for the budget?"
Word origin: The verb 'accord' has its origins in the Latin word 'accordare,' which consists of 'ad' (to) and 'cor' (heart).

Spell: acquit (verb) /əˈkwɪt/
Definition: To formally declare a person not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing in a court of law.
Example Sentence: "If the evidence is deemed unreliable, the judge may acquit him."
Word origin: The verb 'acquit' has its etymological roots in Latin, originating from the word 'acquitare,' which meant 'to set free' or 'to absolve.

Spell: adjacent (adjective) /əˈdʒeɪs(ə)nt/
Definition: Positioned next to or close to, typically sharing a common border, boundary, or proximity without any significant space or gap in between.
Example Sentence: "The adjacent room offers a stunning view of the mountains."
Word origin: The word 'adjacent' has its origins in the Latin language.

Spell: affection (noun) /əˈfɛk ʃən/
Definition: A warm and tender feeling of fondness, care, or love towards someone or something.
Example Sentence: "The child's affection for her grandparents was heartwarming."
Word origin: The noun 'affection' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: affirm (verb) /əˈfɜrm/
Definition: To assert, confirm, or declare something with confidence and conviction.
Example Sentence: "He'll affirm his allegiance to the team."
Word origin: The verb 'affirm' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: afflict (verb) /əˈflɪkt/
Definition: To cause pain, suffering, or distress to someone or something.
Example Sentence: "He fears that loneliness will afflict him in his old age."
Word origin: The verb 'afflict' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: agrestic (adjective) /əˈgrɛs tɪk/
Definition: Rural, rustic, or characteristic of the countryside or agricultural life.
Example Sentence: "Her artwork beautifully captured the agrestic essence of rural life."
Word origin: The adjective 'agrestic' has its roots in Latin, specifically from the Latin word 'agrestis,' which means 'pertaining to the fields' or 'rural.

Spell: amalgam (noun) /əˈmælɡəm/
Definition: A combination of two or more different things, often used to describe a mixture of metals.
Example Sentence: "Their friendship was an amalgam of trust and loyalty."
Word origin: The noun 'amalgam' has an intriguing etymological journey.

Spell: anathema (noun) /əˈnaθəmə/
Definition: Something or someone that is vehemently disliked or detested by an individual or group.
Example Sentence: "The concept of a social credit system is anathema to most people in the West."
Word origin: The noun 'anathema' has its etymological origins in Greek.

Spell: anodyne (adjective) /ˈanədʌɪn/
Definition: Soothing, bland, or inoffensive, often in a way that avoids causing discomfort, controversy, or strong reactions.
Example Sentence: "The doctor prescribed an anodyne cream to soothe my sore muscles."
Word origin: The adjective 'anodyne' has an etymology that traces its origins to the Greek word 'anōdynos,' which is a combination of 'an,' meaning 'without,' and 'odynē,' meaning 'pain' or 'distress.

Spell: asphyxia (noun) /æsˈfɪk si ə/
Definition: A condition in which the body is deprived of oxygen, leading to suffocation or even death.
Example Sentence: "The doctor explained the dangers of asphyxia in a choking incident."
Word origin: The noun 'asphyxia' has its etymological origins in ancient Greek.

Spell: avail (verb) /uh-veyl/
Definition: To make use of or take advantage of an opportunity or resource in order to achieve a specific purpose or benefit.
Example Sentence: "We need to avail ourselves of the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals."
Word origin: The verb 'avail' has its etymological origins in Old French and Latin.

Spell: avid (adjective) /ˈavɪd/
Definition: Describing a strong and enthusiastic eagerness or passion for something, often indicating a deep interest in a particular activity, hobby, or pursuit.
Example Sentence: "The avid bird watcher could identify dozens of species just by their call."
Word origin: The adjective 'avid' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: belated (adjective) /bɪˈleɪ tɪd/
Definition: Occurring, happening, or received later than expected, customary, or appropriate.
Example Sentence: "His belated realization of the project's importance led to a frantic rush to catch up."
Word origin: The adjective 'belated' is formed from the prefix 'be-' and the word 'lated.

Spell: bemuse (verb) /bɪˈmyuz/
Definition: To cause someone to feel confused, puzzled, or bewildered.
Example Sentence: "Will this collection of strange artifacts bemuse our visitors?"
Word origin: The verb 'bemuse' has a somewhat perplexing etymology of its own.

Spell: blasphemy (noun) /ˈblasfəmi/
Definition: An act or statement that shows contempt or disrespect for a religious deity, belief, or sacred object.
Example Sentence: "The movie was accused of blasphemy by some members of the community."
Word origin: The noun 'blasphemy' has its etymological origins in Greek.

Spell: candid (adjective) /ˈkandɪd/
Definition: Open, honest, and straightforward in their expression, behavior, or communication.
Example Sentence: "He appreciated her candid assessment of the situation."
Word origin: The adjective 'candid' has its origins in the Latin word 'candidus,' which means 'white' or 'shining.

Spell: carriage (noun) /ˈkær ɪdʒ/
Definition: A vehicle designed for transporting people or goods.
Example Sentence: "We took a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the park."
Word origin: The noun 'carriage' has an etymology rooted in Old French and Latin.

Spell: chauvinist (noun) /ˈʃəʊvɪnɪst/
Definition: A person displaying excessive or prejudiced belief in the superiority or dominance of their own cause or group.
Example Sentence: "He was known for his chauvinist attitudes, which alienated many of his colleagues."
Word origin: The noun 'chauvinist' has an interesting etymology linked to the French Revolution.

Spell: confide (verb) /kənˈfʌɪd/
Definition: To share personal or private information or feelings with someone else in a trusting manner.
Example Sentence: "It can be difficult to find someone to confide in during difficult times."
Word origin: The verb 'confide' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: confident (adjective) /ˈkɒn fɪ dənt/
Definition: Feeling or showing self-assurance, poise, and belief in one's abilities.
Example Sentence: "Despite facing setbacks, he remained confident in his abilities, knowing that perseverance would lead him to success."
Word origin: The adjective 'confident' is rooted in the Latin word 'confidentem,' which is the present participle of 'confidere.

Spell: consort (noun) /ˈkɒn sɔrt/
Definition: A companion, partner, or spouse, particularly in the context of a reigning monarch.
Example Sentence: "The royal consort accompanied the monarch on their official visit."
Word origin: The noun 'consort' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'consors,' which combines 'con-' meaning 'with' or 'together' and 'sors' meaning 'lot' or 'share.

Spell: contempt (noun) /kənˈtɛm(p)t/
Definition: A feeling of strong disdain or disrespect for someone or something that is seen as being unworthy or inferior.
Example Sentence: "The judge showed contempt towards the defendant's actions."
Word origin: The noun 'contempt' has its etymological roots in Latin.

Spell: convention (noun) /kənˈvɛn ʃən/
Definition: A formal gathering or assembly of individuals who come together to discuss, organize, or engage in a shared interest, purpose, or profession.
Example Sentence: "The convention center was buzzing with activity as attendees gathered for the event."
Word origin: The noun 'convention' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'conventio,' which is derived from 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'venire' meaning 'to come.

Spell: crony (noun) /ˈkroʊ ni/
Definition: A close friend or associate, often with whom one has a long-standing relationship.
Example Sentence: "The mayor's crony was awarded a lucrative government contract without a competitive bidding process."
Word origin: The noun 'crony' has its etymological roots in Scottish dialect and possibly Gaelic influence.

Spell: crypt (noun) /krɪpt/
Definition: An underground chamber or vault, typically found beneath a religious building such as a church or cathedral.
Example Sentence: "The tour guide led the visitors through the dimly lit crypt, sharing stories of its history."
Word origin: The noun 'crypt' traces its etymological origins to the Latin word 'crypta,' which was borrowed from the Greek 'kryptē.

Spell: cryptograph (noun) /ˈkrɪptəʊˌɡræf/
Definition: A device or method used for encrypting or encoding messages to ensure confidentiality and security during communication.
Example Sentence: "The museum displayed an ancient cryptograph device used by ancient civilizations."
Word origin: The noun 'cryptograph' can be dissected into two distinct components, each with its own etymological origin.

Spell: cynic (noun) /ˈsɪn ɪk/
Definition: An individual who habitually exhibits a skeptical or pessimistic attitude towards the motives, integrity, or sincerity of others.
Example Sentence: "Sarah's cynical nature made her question the sincerity of every compliment she received."
Word origin: The noun 'cynic' has its etymological origins in the ancient Greek word 'kynikos,' which pertained to the philosophical school of Cynicism.

Spell: deceit (noun) /dɪˈsit/
Definition: The act or quality of intentionally misleading or deceiving others through dishonesty, falsehoods, or trickery.
Example Sentence: "The politician's deceit was exposed when the scandal broke."
Word origin: The noun 'deceit' has its etymological roots in Old English and Old French.

Spell: defer (verb) /dɪˈfɜr/
Definition: To delay or postpone something, often by choice or as a matter of respect or courtesy to another person's wishes, authority, or priority.
Example Sentence: "The committee chose to defer the decision until they had more information."
Word origin: The verb 'defer' has its roots in Latin, originating from the word 'deferre.

Spell: demean (verb) /dɪˈmin/
Definition: To behave in a way that shows a lack of respect for oneself or others, or to reduce the dignity or standing of someone or something.
Example Sentence: "Such comments can demean a person's self-esteem."
Word origin: The verb 'demean' can be traced back to the Middle English term 'demenen,' which emerged from the Old French word 'demener.

Spell: discord (noun) /ˈdɪskɔːd/
Definition: Lack of agreement or harmony between people, things, or ideas.
Example Sentence: "Within the tight-knit community, the sudden discord between neighbors came as a shock to everyone involved."
Word origin: The noun 'discord' has its origins in the Latin word 'discordia,' which is a combination of 'dis-' (meaning 'apart') and 'cor,' (meaning 'heart').

Spell: dishevel (verb) /dɪˈʃɛvl/
Definition: To make someone or something appear untidy, disordered, or disarranged, particularly concerning their appearance or condition.
Example Sentence: "She decided to dishevel the papers on the desk for the scene."
Word origin: The verb 'dishevel' has its roots in the Old French word 'descheveler,' which means 'to disarrange the hair.

Spell: dishonor (noun) /dɪsˈɒn ər/
Definition: The loss or violation of one's honor, integrity, or reputation.
Example Sentence: "Cheating on the exam was an act of dishonor that resulted in severe consequences."
Word origin: The noun 'dishonor' has its etymological roots in Middle English and Old French.

Spell: dodder (verb) /ˈdɑdər/
Definition: To move or walk in a shaky or unsteady way, often due to old age, physical weakness, or illness.
Example Sentence: "After a long day at work, I often dodder home, utterly exhausted."
Word origin: The verb 'dodder' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'dodderen,' which meant 'to tremble' or 'to shake.

Spell: dwell (verb) /dwɛl/
Definition: To reside or live in a particular place for an extended period of time.
Example Sentence: "She has a tendency to dwell on negative thoughts and emotions."
Word origin: The verb 'dwell' has its etymological origins in Old English.

Spell: empower (verb) /ɛmˈpaʊ ər/
Definition: To grant or bestow power, authority, or autonomy to individuals or groups.
Example Sentence: "We should empower children to express their emotions freely."
Word origin: The verb 'empower' derives from the combination of two Old French words: 'en,' meaning 'in,' and 'pouair,' meaning 'to be able' or 'to have power.

Spell: encompass (verb) /ɪnˈkʌmpəs/
Definition: To surround, encircle, or include something completely within a particular scope, area, or range.
Example Sentence: "His vision for the project is to encompass innovative design and functionality."
Word origin: The verb 'encompass' has its roots in Old French and Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'encumpasser,' which combines 'en-' (in) and 'compasser' (to circle or go around).

Spell: era (noun) /ˈɪər ə/
Definition: A distinct period of time characterized by specific events, developments, or cultural traits.
Example Sentence: "The Roaring Twenties was an era of prosperity, cultural dynamism, and social change."
Word origin: The noun 'era' has its origins in Latin, deriving from the Latin word 'aera,' which means 'counters' or 'calculations.

Spell: exalt (verb) /ɪgˈzɔlt/
Definition: To elevate, praise, or honor someone or something highly.
Example Sentence: "His achievements exalt his name among the scientists in his field."
Word origin: The verb 'exalt' finds its origins in the Latin word 'exaltare.

Spell: furor (noun) /ˈfyʊər ɔr/
Definition: A state of intense excitement, uproar, or public outcry generated by a particular event, issue, or controversy.
Example Sentence: "The article about the celebrity's behavior created a furor in the media."
Word origin: The noun 'furor' has its origins in Latin, where it was originally spelled as 'furor' or 'furo.

Spell: gall (noun) /gɔl/
Definition: Bold or impudent behavior, displaying audacity or impertinence.
Example Sentence: "His constant bragging and arrogance displayed an incredible amount of gall."
Word origin: The noun 'gall,' in the sense of displaying audacity or impertinence, has an intriguing etymology.

Spell: indefinite (adjective) /ɪnˈdɛf ə nɪt/
Definition: Lacking a specific or precise limit, duration, or definition.
Example Sentence: "She had an indefinite feeling of unease, unable to pinpoint its source."
Word origin: The adjective 'indefinite' has its roots in Latin, starting with the prefix 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'definitus,' the past participle of 'definire.

Spell: indict (verb) /ɪnˈdʌɪt/
Definition: To formally accuse someone of committing a crime or wrongdoing through a legal process, typically initiated by a grand jury or a prosecutor.
Example Sentence: "The prosecutor decided to indict the alleged embezzler."
Word origin: The verb 'indict' has a notable etymology rooted in Latin.

Spell: inert (adjective) /ɪˈnəːt/
Definition: Lacking in energy or action, often associated with the absence of movement or change.
Example Sentence: "The rock was inert and did not react to any of the tests."
Word origin: The adjective 'inert' has its etymological origins in Latin.

Spell: infidel (noun) /ˈɪnfɪˌdɛl/
Definition: A person who does not believe in a particular religion or set of religious beliefs.
Example Sentence: "In some societies, being labeled an infidel can lead to persecution."
Word origin: The noun 'infidel' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'infidelis,' which is a combination of 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'fidelis,' meaning 'faithful' or 'believing.

Spell: insurrection (noun) /ˌɪnsəˈrɛkʃ(ə)n/
Definition: A rebellion or uprising against a government or an authority.
Example Sentence: "Insurrection became the tool of choice for the oppressed masses."
Word origin: The noun 'insurrection' has its etymological origins in Latin.

Spell: listless (adjective) /ˈlɪs(t)ləs/
Definition: Characterized by a lack of energy, enthusiasm, or interest in one's surroundings or activities.
Example Sentence: "The hot weather made her feel listless and sluggish."
Word origin: The adjective 'listless' finds its origins in the Middle English word 'list,' which meant 'pleasure' or 'desire.

Spell: neoliberal (noun) /ˌniːə(ʊ)ˈlɪb(ə)rəl/
Definition: An advocate or supporter of free-market capitalism, deregulation, and reduction in government spending.
Example Sentence: "The neoliberal agenda emphasizes free markets and limited government intervention."
Word origin: The noun 'neoliberal' has its etymological roots in the term 'liberal,' but with a distinct modern twist.

Spell: overt (adjective) /ə(ʊ)ˈvəːt/
Definition: Easily observable, apparent, or openly displayed without concealment or hidden intentions.
Example Sentence: "The company's overt commitment to diversity was evident in their hiring practices."
Word origin: The adjective 'overt' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin.

Spell: penitent (adjective) /ˈpɛn ɪ tənt/
Definition: Deep regret or remorse for one's actions or wrongdoing.
Example Sentence: "The penitent student approached the teacher to confess his plagiarism and ask for forgiveness."
Word origin: The adjective 'penitent' has its etymological roots in Latin and carries a history deeply connected to religious and moral concepts.

Spell: peril (noun) /ˈpɛrəl/
Definition: A situation or condition that is characterized by danger, risk, or potential harm.
Example Sentence: "The driver was unaware of the peril of texting while driving."
Word origin: The noun 'peril' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin.

Spell: phonic (adjective) /ˈfɒn ɪk/
Definition: Relating to sound, particularly the production, transmission, or perception of sound.
Example Sentence: "The phonics textbook provided a systematic approach to teaching phonic principles."
Word origin: The adjective 'phonic' has its etymological roots in the Greek word 'phōnē,' which means 'sound' or 'voice.

Spell: predispose (verb) /ˌpriːdɪˈspəʊz/
Definition: To make someone more likely or inclined to have a particular feeling, condition, or tendency.
Example Sentence: "The constant exposure to secondhand smoke can predispose people to respiratory problems."
Word origin: The verb 'predispose' has its etymology rooted in Latin.

Spell: pseudo (adjective) /ˈsjuːdəʊ/
Definition: Not genuine or authentic, but rather a copy, imitation, or counterfeit.
Example Sentence: "The organization was a pseudo-charity, with little of its funds going to actual charitable causes."
Word origin: The adjective 'pseudo' finds its etymological origins in Greek.

Spell: pyromania (noun) /ˌpaɪ rəˈmeɪ ni ə/
Definition: A psychological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable and persistent urge to set fires.
Example Sentence: "Pyromania is a serious mental disorder that requires professional treatment."
Word origin: The noun 'pyromania' has its etymological roots in Greek.

Spell: relent (verb) /rɪˈlɛnt/
Definition: To yield, give in, or become less strict, severe, or determined in one's stance or attitude.
Example Sentence: "She refused to relent in her pursuit of excellence."
Word origin: The verb 'relent' has its origins in the Old English word 'relentan,' which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root '*rlintan,' meaning 'to melt' or 'to dissolve.

Spell: remnant (noun) /ˈrɛmnənt/
Definition: A small remaining part or fragment of something that was once whole or larger.
Example Sentence: "She found a remnant of fabric in the sewing kit."
Word origin: The noun 'remnant' has its roots in Old French and Latin.

Spell: repent (verb) /rɪˈpɛnt/
Definition: To feel remorse or regret for past actions, words, or thoughts, and to make a conscious effort to change one's ways.
Example Sentence: "After the argument, he began to repent his hurtful words."
Word origin: The verb 'repent' finds its etymological roots in the Latin word 'repentare,' which means 'to feel remorse' or 'to regret.

Spell: replica (noun) /ˈrɛp lɪ kə/
Definition: A close or exact copy or reproduction of an object, artwork, or structure.
Example Sentence: "He proudly showcased his collection of sports memorabilia, which included a replica of the Super Bowl trophy."
Word origin: The noun 'replica' has its roots in the Latin language, specifically from the word 'replicare,' which means 'to fold back' or 'to repeat.

Spell: revere (verb) /rɪˈvɪər/
Definition: To deeply admire, respect, and hold someone or something in high esteem.
Example Sentence: "In ancient times, societies used to revere the sun as a god."
Word origin: The noun 'reverberation' has its origins in Latin and is rooted in the word 'reverberatio,' which was derived from 'reverberare.

Spell: rhetoric (noun) /ˈrɛtərɪk/
Definition: The art and study of persuasive communication, including the use of language, gestures, and other techniques to influence an audience.
Example Sentence: "Her mastery of rhetoric made her a compelling public speaker."
Word origin: The noun 'rhetoric' finds its origins in ancient Greece, specifically from the word 'rhētorikē,' which means 'the art of persuasive speaking or writing.

Spell: rudiment (noun) /ˈru də mənt/
Definition: The basic or fundamental elements or principles of a subject or skill.
Example Sentence: "Music theory begins with the rudiment of sheet music."
Word origin: The noun 'rudiment' originates from the Latin word 'rudimentum,' which meant 'a beginning' or 'first experience.

Spell: scintilla (noun) /sɪnˈtɪlə/
Definition: A tiny trace or spark of something, often used in reference to a small amount of a quality or characteristic.
Example Sentence: "His argument lacked even a scintilla of credible evidence."
Word origin: The noun 'scintilla' has a captivating etymology that can be traced back to Latin.

Spell: skimp (verb) /skɪmp/
Definition: To provide or use an insufficient amount of something, usually in an attempt to save time, money, or effort.
Example Sentence: "She maintained a sober demeanor during the crisis."
Word origin: The verb 'skimp' has uncertain etymological origins, but it likely emerged in the 19th century as American slang.

Spell: spat (noun) /spæt/
Definition: A brief, often minor, quarrel or argument between two or more individuals.
Example Sentence: "The meeting turned chaotic when a heated spat erupted between two colleagues."
Word origin: The noun 'spat' has its origins in the early 19th century.

Spell: thrifty (adjective) /ˈθrɪfti/
Definition: Having a prudent and economical approach to managing resources, expenses, and finances.
Example Sentence: "Thrifty individuals budget meticulously and avoid overspending."
Word origin: The adjective 'thrifty' has its etymological roots in Middle English and Old Norse.

Spell: tot (noun) /tɒt/
Definition: A small child, typically a toddler or young child.
Example Sentence: "She carefully poured a small tot of whiskey into her glass."
Word origin: The noun 'tot,' when used to refer to a small child, is an informal term that likely originated as a diminutive form of the word 'totty' or 'tottle.

Spell: totalitarian (adjective) /ˌtəʊtalɪˈtɛːrɪən/
Definition: Relating to a system of government that is centralized and dictatorial and requires complete subservience to the state.
Example Sentence: "Totalitarian governments exert absolute control over citizens."
Word origin: The adjective 'totalitarian' has its etymological roots in the word 'total.

Spell: uncanny (adjective) /ʌnˈkani/
Definition: Strange, mysterious, or unsettling in a way that is difficult to explain.
Example Sentence: "The resemblance between the twins was uncanny, making it difficult to tell them apart."
Word origin: The adjective 'uncanny' has its etymological roots in Old English.

Spell: vent (verb) /vɛnt/
Definition: To express or release one's emotions, thoughts, or frustrations, usually in a forceful or impassioned manner.
Example Sentence: "Through poetry, silent souls vent, unearthing voices bold and profound."
Word origin: The verb 'vent' has its origins in Latin and Old French.

Spell: vestibule (noun) /ˈvɛstɪbjuːl/
Definition: A small entrance area or a passage leading to the main part of a building.
Example Sentence: "We waited in the vestibule for our turn to enter the grand ballroom."
Word origin: The noun 'vestibule' comes from the Latin word 'vestibulum,' which originally referred to the entrance court of a Roman house or the area between the street and the main house.

Spell: vigil (noun) /ˈvɪdʒ(ɪ)l/
Definition: A period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, most often to keep watch, pray, or to make a protest.
Example Sentence: "The night sky was adorned with stars during their outdoor vigil."
Word origin: The noun 'vigil' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'vigilia,' which is derived from 'vigil,' the present participle of 'vigilare,' meaning 'to watch' or 'to stay awake.

Spell: vitriol (noun) /ˈvɪtrɪəl/
Definition: A harsh or bitter criticism or hostility, often expressed in a very cruel or abusive way.
Example Sentence: "Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for vitriol and online harassment."
Word origin: The noun 'vitriol' has an etymology rooted in both chemistry and metaphorical language.

Spell: zealot (noun) /ˈzɛlət/
Definition: A person who is extremely enthusiastic and dedicated to a particular cause or idea.
Example Sentence: "His brother was a political zealot, constantly arguing about government policies."
Word origin: The noun 'zealot' has its etymological origins in ancient Judea.