Letter O

oaf - awkward person
obdurate - unyielding, hardhearted
obeisance - homage, deference
obelisk - tall column, monument
obese - fat
obfuscate - bewilder, muddle
obituary - eulogy
objective (adj.) - unbiased
objective (noun) - goal
objectivity - impartiality
oblation - offering, sacrifice
obligatory - required, compulsory
oblige - compel
obliging - accommodating, considerate
oblique - indirect
obliquity - perversity
obliterate - destroy
oblong - elliptical, oval
obloquy - slander
obscure - vague, unclear
obsequious - fawning, servile
obsequy - funeral ceremony
observant - watchful
obsolete - outdated
obstinate - stubborn
obstreperous - noisy, unruly
obtain - gain possession
obtrusive - forward, meddlesome
obtuse - stupid
obviate - make unnecessary
Occident - the West
occlude - block
occult - mystical, secret, relating to
the supernatural or witchcraft
octogenarian - person in her eighties
ocular - optic, visual
ode - poem
odious - despicable
odoriferous - pleasant odor
odyssey - journey
offal - inedible parts of a butchered
animal
offertory - church collection
officiate - supervise
officious - forward, obtrusive
offset - counterbalance
ogle - flirt
ogre - monster, demon
oleaginous - oily
oligarchy - aristocracy
olio - medley
ominous - threatening
omnibus - collection, compilation
omnipotent - all-powerful
omniscient - all-knowing
onerous - burdensome
onslaught - powerful attack
ontology - the study of the nature of
existence
onus - burden
opaque - nontransparent
operative - working
operetta - musical comedy
opiate - narcotic
opine - think, express an opinion
opportune - well-timed, appropriate
oppress - persecute
oppressive - burdensome
opprobrious - abusive, scornful
opprobrium - disgrace
oppugn - assail
opt - decide, choose
optimum - best condition
optional - elective
opulence - wealth
opus - literary work or musical
composition
oracle - prophet
oration - speech
orator - speaker
orb - sphere
orchestrate - organize
ordain - appoint
orderly - neat, arranged
ordinance - law
ordnance - artillery
orient - align, familiarize
orison - prayer
ornate - lavishly decorated
ornithology - study of birds
orthodox - conventional
oscillate - waver, swing
ossify - harden
ostensible - apparent, seeming
ostentatious - pretentious
ostracize - banish, shun
otherworldly - spiritual
otiose - idle
ouster - ejection
outmoded - out-of-date
outré - eccentric
outset - beginning
ovation - applause
overrule - disallow
overture - advance, proposal
overweening - arrogant, forward
overwhelm - overpower
overwrought - overworked, highstrung
ovum - egg, cell

Letter P

pachyderm - elephant
pacifist - one who opposes all violence
pacify - appease
pact - agreement
paean - a song of praise
pagan - heathen, ungodly
page - attendant
pageant - exhibition, show
pains - great effort, attention to detail
painstaking - taking great care, thorough
palatial - grand, splendid
palaver - babble, nonsense
Paleolithic - stone age
paleontologist - one who studies fossils
pall - to become dull or weary
palliate - assuage
pallid - pale, sallow
palpable - touchable
palpitate - beat, throb
palsy - paralysis
paltry - scarce
pan - criticize
panacea - cure-all
panache - flamboyance
pandemic - widespread, plague
pandemonium - din, commotion
pander - cater to people’s baser instincts
panegyric - praise
pang - short sharp pain
panoply - full suit of armor
panorama - vista
pant - gasp, puff
pantomime - mime
pantry - storeroom
papyrus - paper
parable - allegory
paradigm - a model
paragon - standard of excellence
parameter - limit
paramount - chief, foremost
paramour - lover
paranoid - obsessively suspicious, demented
paranormal - supernatural
parapet - rampart, defense
paraphernalia - equipment
paraphrase - restatement
parcel - package
parchment - paper
pare - peel
parenthetical - in parentheses
pariah - outcast
parish - fold, church
parity - equality
parlance - local speech
parlay - increase
parley - conference
parochial - provincial
parody - imitation, ridicule
parole - release
paroxysm - outburst, convulsion
parrot - mimic
parry - avert, ward off
parsimonious - stingy
parson - clergyman
partake - share, receive, consume
partial - incomplete
partiality - bias
parting - farewell, severance
partisan - supporter
partition - division
parvenu - newcomer, social climber
pasquinade - satire
passé - outmoded
passim - here and there
pastel - pale
pasteurize - disinfect
pastoral - rustic
patent - obvious
paternal - fatherly
pathetic - pitiful
pathogen - agent causing disease
pathogenic - causing disease
pathos - emotion
patrician - aristocrat
patrimony - inheritance
patronize - condescend
patronymic - a name formed form the name of a father
patter - walk lightly
paucity - scarcity
paunch - stomach
pauper - poor person
pavilion - tent
pawn (noun) - tool, stooge
pawn (verb) - pledge
pax - peace
peaked - wan, pale, haggard
peal - reverberation, outburst
peccadillo - a minor fault
peculate - embezzle
peculiar - unusual
peculiarity - characteristic
pedagogical - pertaining to teaching
pedagogue - dull, formal teacher
pedant - pedagogue
pedantic - bookish
peddle - sell
pedestrian - common
pedigree - genealogy
peerage - aristocracy
peevish - cranky
pejorative - insulting
pell-mell - in a confused manner
pellucid - transparent
pen - write
penance - atonement
penchant - inclination
pend - depend, hang
pending - not decided, awaiting
penitent - repentant
pensive - sad
penurious - stingy
penury - poverty
peon - common worker
per - se in itself
perceptive - discerning
percolate - ooze, permeate
perdition - damnation
peregrination - wandering
peremptory - dictatorial
perennial - enduring, lasting
perfectionist - purist, precisionist
perfidious - trencture
perforce - by necessity
perfunctory - careless
perigee - point nearest to the earth
perilous - dangerous
peripatetic - walking about
periphery - outer boundary
perish - die
perishable - decomposable
perjury - lying
permeate - spread throughout
permutation - reordering
pernicious - destructive, evil
peroration - conclusion
perpendicular - at right angles
perpetrate - commit
perpetual - continuous, everlasting
perpetuate - cause to continue
perpetuity - eternity
perplex - puzzle, bewilder
perquisite - reward, bonus
persecute - harass
persevere - persist, endure
persona - social facade
personable - charming, friendly
personage - official, dignitary
personify - embody, exemplify
personnel - employees
perspicacious - keen
perspicacity - discernment, keenness
persuasive - convincing
pert - flippant, bold
pertain - to relate
pertinacious - persevering
pertinent - relevant
perturbation - agitation
peruse - read carefully
pervade - permeate
pessimist - cynic, naysayer
pestilence - disease
petite - small
petition - a written request
petrify - calcify, shock
petrology - study of rocks
pettifogger - unscrupulous lawyer
petty - trivial, niggling
petulant - irritable, peevish
phantasm - apparition
phenomena - unusual natural events
philanthropic - charitable
philanthropist - altruist
philatelist - stamp collector
philippic - invective
Philistine - barbarian
philosophical - contemplative
phlegmatic - sluggish
phobia - fear
phoenix - rebirth
physic - laxative, cathartic
physique - frame, musculature
picaresque - roguish, adventurous
picayune - trifling
piecemeal - one at a time
pied - mottled, brindled
piety - devoutness
pilfer - steal
pillage - plunder
pillory - punish by ridicule
pine - languish, to long for someone or something
pinnacle - highest point
pious - devout, holy
piquant - tart-tasting, spicy
pique - sting, arouse interest
piscine - pertaining to fish
piteous - sorrowful, pathetic
pithy - concise
pitiable - miserable, wretched
pittance - alms, driblet
pittance - trifle
pivotal - crucial
pixilated - eccentric, possessed
placard - poster
placate - appease
placid - serene
plagiarize - pirate, counterfeit
plaintive - expressing sorrow
platitude - trite remark
platonic - nonsexual
plaudit - acclaim
pleasantry - banter, persiflage
plebeian - common, vulgar
plebiscite - referendum
plenary - full
plentiful - abundant
pleonasm - redundancy, verbosity
plethora - overabundance
pliable - flexible
pliant - supple, flexible
plight - sad situation
plucky - courageous
plumb - measure
plummet - sudden shart fall
plutocrat - wealthy person
plutonium - radioactive material
poach - steal
podgy - fat
podium - stand, rostrum
pogrom - massacre, mass murder
poignant - pungent, sharp, heartbreaking
polemic - a controversy
polity - methods of government
poltroon - dastard
polychromatic - many-colored
polygamist - one who has many wives
ponder - muse, reflect
ponderous - heavy, bulky
pontiff - bishop
pontificate - to speak at length
pootroon - coward
porcine - pig-like
porous - permeable, spongy
porridge - stew
portend - signify, augur
portent - omen
portly - large
portmanteau - suitcase
posit - stipulate
posterior - rear, subsequent
posterity - future generations
posthaste - hastily
posthumous - after death
postulate - supposition, premise
potent - powerful
potentate - sovereign, king
potion - brew
potpourri - medley
potter - aimlessly busy
pragmatic - practical
prate - babble
prattle - chatter
preamble - introduction
precarious - dangerous, risky
precedent - an act that serves as an example
precept - principle, law
precinct - neighborhood
precipice - cliff
precipitate - cause
precipitous - steep
précis - summary
precise - accurate, detailed
preclude - prevent
precocious - more developed than is
expected at a particular age
preconception - prejudgment, prejudice
precursor - forerunner
predacious - plundering
predecessor - one who proceeds
predestine - foreordain
predicament - quandary
predicate - to base an opinion on something
predilection - inclination
predisposed - inclined
preeminent - supreme
preempt - commandeer
preen - groom
prefabricated - ready-built
prefect - magistrate
preference - choice
preferment - promotion
prelate - primate, bishop
preliminary - introductory
prelude - introduction
premeditate - plan in advance
premonition - warning
prenatal - before birth
preponderance - predominance
prepossessing - appealing, charming
preposterous - ridiculous
prerequisite - requirement
prerogative - right, privilege
presage - omen
prescribe - urge
presentable - acceptable, well-mannered
preside - direct, chair
pressing - urgent
prestidigitator - magician
prestige - reputation, renown
presume - assume, deduce
presumptuous - assuming, overconfident
presuppose - assume
pretense - affectation, excuse
pretentious - affected, inflated
preternatural - abnormal, supernatural
pretext - excuse
prevail - triumph
prevailing - common, current
prevalent - widespread
prevaricate - lie
prick - puncture
priggish - pedantic, affected
prim - formal, prudish
primal - first, beginning
primate - head, master
primogeniture - first-born child
primp - groom
princely - regal, generous
prismatic - many-colored, sparkling
pristine - pure, unspoiled
privation - hardship
privy - aware of private matters
probe - examine
probity - integrity
problematic - uncertain, difficult
proboscis - snout
procedure - method, process
proceeds - profit
proclaim - announce
proclivity - inclination
procreate - beget
proctor - supervise
procure - acquire
procurer - pander
prod - urge
prodigal - wasteful
prodigious - marvelous, enormous
prodigy - a person with extraordinary ability or talent
profane - blasphemous
profess - affirm, admit
proffer - bring forward for consideration
proficient - skillful
profiteer - extortionist
profligate - licentious, prodigal
profound - deep, knowledgeable
profusion - overabundance
progenitor - ancestor
progeny - children
prognosis - forecast
prognosticate - foretell
progressive - advancing, liberal
proletariat - working class
proliferate - increase rapidly
prolific - fruitful, productive
prolix - long-winded
prologue - introduction
prolong - lengthen in time
promenade - stroll, parade
promethean - inspirational
promiscuous - sexually indiscreet
promontory - headland, cape
prompt - induce
prompter - reminder
promulgate - publish, disseminate
prone - inclined, predisposed
propaganda - publicity, misinformation
propellant - rocket fuel
propensity - inclination
prophet - prognosticator
prophylactic - preventive
propinquity - nearness
propitiate - satisfy
propitious - auspicious, favorable
proponent - supporter, advocate
proportionate - commensurate
proposition - offer, proposal
propound - propose
proprietor - manager, owner
propriety - decorum
prosaic - uninspired, flat
proscenium - platform, rostrum
proscribe - prohibit
proselytize - recruit, convert
prosody - study of poetic structure
prospective - expected, imminent
prospectus - brochure
prostrate - supine
protagonist - main character in a story
protean - changing readily
protégé - ward, pupil
protocol - code of diplomatic etiquette
proton - particle
protract - prolong
protuberance - bulge
provender - food
proverb - maxim
proverbial - well-known
providence - foresight, divine protection
provident - having foresight, thrifty
providential - fortunate
province - bailiwick, district
provincial - intolerant, insular
provisional - temporary
proviso - stipulation
provisory - conditional
provocation - incitement
provocative - titillating
provoke - incite
prowess - strength, expertise
proximity - nearness
proxy - substitute, agent
prude - puritan
prudence - discretion, carefulness
prudent - cautious, using good judgment
prudish - puritanical
prurient - lewd
pseudo - false
pseudonym - alias
psychic - pertaining the psyche or mind
psychopath - madman
psychotic - demented
puberty - adolescence
puckish - impish, mischievous
puerile - childish
pugilism - boxing
pugnacious - combative
puissant - strong
pulchritude - beauty
pulp - paste, mush
pulpit - platform, priesthood
pulsate - throb
pulverize - crush
pun - wordplay
punctilious - meticulous
pundit - learned or politically astute person
pungent - sharp smell or taste
punitive - punishing
puny - weak, small
purblind - obtuse, stupid
purgative - cathartic, cleansing
purgatory - limbo, netherworld
purge - cleanse, remove
puritanical - prim
purlieus - environs, surroundings
purloin - steal
purport - claim to be
purported - rumored
purposefu -l determined
pursuant - following, according
purvey - deliver, provide
purview - range of understanding, field
pusillanimous - cowardly
putative - reputed
putrefy - decay
putsch - a sudden attempt to overthrow a government
pygmy - dwarf
pyrotechnics - fireworks
pyrrhic - a battle won with unacceptable losses

Letter Q

quack - charlatan
quadrennial - occurring every four years
quadrille - square dance
quadruped - four foot animal
quaff - drink
quagmire - difficult situation
quail - shrink, cower
quaint - old-fashioned, charming
qualified - limited
qualms - misgivings
quandary - dilemma
quantum - quantity, particle
quarantine - detention, confinement
quarry - prey, game
quarter - residence, district
quash - put down, suppress
quasi - seeming, almost
quaver - tremble
quay - wharf
queasy - squeamish
queer - odd
quell - suppress, allay
quench - extinguish, slake
querulous - complaining
questionnaire - survey, feedback
queue - line
quibble - bicker
quicken - revive, hasten
quiddity - essence, an unimportant or trifling distinction
quiescent - still, motionless
quietus - a cessation of activity
quill - feather, pen
quip - joke
quirk - eccentricity, a strange and unexpected turn of events
quiver - tremble
quixotic - impractical, romantic
quizzical - odd, questioning
quorum - the minimum number people who must be present to hold a meeting
quota - a share or proportion
quotidian - daily

Letter R

rabble - crowd
rabid - mad, furious
racketeer - gangster, swindler
raconteur - storyteller
radical - revolutionary
raffish - rowdy, dashing
rail - rant, harangue
raiment - clothing
rake - womanizer
rally - assemble
rambunctious - boisterous
ramification - consequence
rampage - run amuck
rampant - unbridled, raging
ramrod - rod
rancid - rotten
rancor - resentment
randy - vulgar
rankle - cause bitterness, resentment
rant - rage, scold
rapacious - grasping, avaricious
rapidity - speed
rapier - sword
rapine - plunder
rapport - affinity, empathy
rapprochement - reconciliation
rapture - bliss
rash - hasty, brash
rasp - scrape
ratify - approve
ration - allowance, portion
rationale - justification
ravage - plunder, ruin
ravish - captivate, charm
raze - destroy or level a building
realm - kingdom, domain
realpolitik - cynical interpretation of politics
reap - harvest
rebuff - reject, snub
rebuke - criticize, reprimand
rebus - picture puzzle
rebuttal - reply, counterargument
recalcitrant - stubbornly resisting the authority of another
recant - retract a previous statement
recapitulate - restate, summarize
recede - move back
receptacle - container
receptive - open to ideas
recidivism - habitual criminal activity
recipient - one who receives
reciprocal - mutual, return in kind
recital - performance, concert
recitation - recital, lesson
reclusive - solitary
recoil - flinch, retreat
recollect - remember
recompense - repay, compensate
reconcile - adjust, balance
recondite - mystical, profound
reconnaissance - surveillance
reconnoiter - to survey, to scout (especially for military purposes)
recount - recite
recoup - recover
recourse - appeal, resort
recreant - cowardly
recrimination - countercharge, retaliation
recruit - draftee
rectify - correct, to make right
recumbent - reclining
recuperation - recovery
recur - repeat, revert
redeem - buy back, justify, restore yourself to favor or to good opinion
redeemer - savior
redemption - salvation
redolent - fragrant
redoubt - fort
redoubtable - formidable, steadfast
redress - restitution, compensation
redundant - repetitious
reek - smell
reel - stagger, to lurch backward as though struck by a blow
referendum - vote
refined - purified, cultured
reflux - ebb
refraction - bending, deflection
refractory - obstinate, disobedient
refrain - abstain
refurbish - remodel, renovate
refute - disprove, contradict
regal - royal
regale - entertain
regalia - emblems
regime - a government
regiment - infantry unit
regrettable - lamentable, unfortunate
regurgitate - vomit, repeat
rehash - wearily discuss again
reign - rule, influence
rein - curb, restrain
reincarnation - rebirth
reiterate - repeat, say again
rejoice - celebrate
rejoinder - answer, retort
rejuvenate - make young again
relapse - recurrence (of illness)
relegate - assign to an inferior position
relent - soften, yield
relentless - unstoppable
relic - antique
relinquish - release, renounce
relish - savor
remedial - corrective
remiss - negligent
remit - forgive, send payment
remnant - residue, fragment
remonstrance - protest
remorse - guilt
remuneration - compensation
renaissance - rebirth
renascent - reborn
rend - to tear apart
render - deliver, provide
rendezvous - a meeting
rendition - version, interpretation
renege - break a promise
renounce - disown
renown - fame
rent - tear, rupture
reparation - amends, atonement
repartee - witty conversation
repatriate - to send back to the native land
repellent - causing aversion
repent - atone for
repercussion - consequence
repertoire - stock of works
repine - fret
replenish - refill
replete - complete
replica - copy
replicate - duplicate
repose - rest
reprehensible - blameworthy
repress - suppress
reprieve - temporary suspension
reprimand - rebuke
reprisal - retaliation
reprise - repetition
reproach - blame
reprobate - miscreant
reprove - rebuke
repudiate - disavow
repugnant - distasteful, revolting
repulse - repel
repulsive - repugnant
repute - status, reputation, esteem
reputed - supposed, presumed, alleged
requiem - rest, a mass for the dead
requisite - necessary
requisition - order, formal demand
requite - to return in kind
rescind - revoke
reserve - self-control
reside - dwell
residue - remaining part
resigned - accepting of a situation
resilience - ability to recover from an illness or a setback
resolute - determined
resolution - determination
resolve - determination
resonant - reverberating
resort - recourse
resound - echo
resourceful - inventive, skillful
respectively - in that order
respire - breathe
respite - rest, temporary delay
resplendent - shining, splendid
restitution - reparation, amends
restive - nervous, uneasy
resurgence - revival
resurrection - rebirth
resuscitate - revive
retain - keep
retainer - advance fee
retaliate - revenge
retch - vomit
reticent - reserved
retiring - modest, unassuming
retort - quick reply
retrench - cut back, economize
retribution - reprisal
retrieve - reclaim
retrograde - regress
retrospective - reminiscent, display
revamp - recast
reveille - bugle call
revel - frolic, take joy in
revelry - merrymaking
revenue - income
revere - honor
reverent - respectful
reverie - daydream
revert - return to a former state
revile - denounce, defame
revision - new version
revive - renew
revoke - repeal
revulsion - aversion
rhapsody - ecstasy
rhetoric - elocution, grandiloquence
rheumatism - inflammation
ribald - coarse, vulgar
rickety - shaky, ramshackle
ricochet - carom, rebound
rife - widespread, abundant
riffraff - dregs of society
rifle - search through and steal
rift - a split, an opening, disagreement
righteous - upright, moral
rigor - harshness, precise and exacting
rime - crust
riposte - counterthrust
risible - laughable
risqué - off-color, racy
rivet - engross
robust - vigorous
rogue - scoundrel
roister - bluster
romp - frolic
roseate - rosy, optimistic
roster - list of people
rostrum - podium
roué - libertine
rouse - awaken, provoke
rout - vanquish, cause to retreat
rubicund - ruddy complexion
ruck - the common herd
rudiment - beginning, kernel
rue - regret
ruffian - brutal person
ruminate - ponder
rummage - hunt, grope
runel - stream
ruse - trick
rustic - rural

Letter S

Sabbath - day of rest
sabbatical - vacation
saber - sword
sabotage - treason, destruction
saccharine - sugary, overly sweet tone
sacerdotal - priestly
sack - pillage
sacrament - rite
sacred - cow idol, taboo
sacrilege - blasphemy
sacrosanct - sacred
saddle - encumber
sadist - one who takes pleasure in hurting others
safari - expedition
saga - story
sagacious - wise
sage - wise person
salacious - licentious
salient - prominent
saline - salty
sallow - sickly complected
sally - sortie, attack
salutary - good, wholesome
salutation - salute, greeting
salvation - redemption
salve - medicinal ointment
salvo - volley, gunfire
sanctify - consecrate
sanctimonious - self-righteous
sanction - approval
sanctuary - refuge
sang-froid - coolness under fire
sanguinary - gory, murderous
sanguine - cheerful
sans - without
sapid - interesting
sapient - wise
sarcophagus - stone coffin
scornful - scornful, sarcastic
sartorial - pertaining to clothes
satanic - pertaining to the Devil
satchel - bag
sate - satisfy fully
satiate - satisfy fully
satire - ridicule
saturate - soak
saturnine - gloomy
satyr - demigod, goat-man
saunter - stroll
savanna - grassland
savant - scholar
savoir-faire - tact, polish
savor - enjoy, relish
savory - appetizing
savvy - perceptive, shrewd
scabrous - difficult
scant - inadequate, meager
scapegoat - one who takes blame for others
scarify - criticize
scathe - injure, denounce
scepter - a rod, staff
scheme - plot, system, diagram
schism - rift
scintilla - speck
scintillate - sparkle
scion - offspring
scoff - jeer, dismiss
scone - biscuit
scorn - disdain, reject
scoundrel - unprincipled person
scour - clean by rubbing, search
scourge - affliction
scruples - misgivings
scrupulous - principled, fastidious
scrutinize - examine closely
scurf - dandruff
scurrilous - abusive, insulting
scurry - move quickly
scuttle - to sink (a ship)
scythe - long, curved blade
sear - burn
sebaceous - like fat
secede - withdraw
secluded - remote, isolated
seclusion - solitude
sectarian - denominational
secular - worldly, nonreligious
secure - make safe
sedation - state of calm
sedentary - stationary, inactive
sedition - treason, inciting rebellion
seduce - lure
sedulous - diligent
seedy - rundown, ramshackle
seemly - proper, attractive
seethe - fume, resent
seismic - pertaining to earthquakes
seismology - study of earthquakes
self-effacing - modest
semantics - study of word meanings
semblance - likeness
seminal - fundamental, decisive
semper - fidelis always loyal
senescence - old age
senescent - aging
seniority - privilege due to length of service
sensational - outstanding, startling
sensible - wise, prudent
sensory - relating to the senses
sensualist - epicure
sensuous - appealing to the senses,
enjoying - luxury
sententious - concise
sentient - conscious
sentinel - watchman
sepulcher - tomb
sequacious - dependent
sequel - continuation, epilogue
sequester - segregate
seraphic - angelic
serendipity - a knack for making fortunate discoveries
serene - peaceful
serpentine - winding and twisting
serried - saw-toothed
serum - vaccine
servile - slavish
servitude - forced labor
sessile - permanently attached
session - meeting
settee - seat, sofa
sever - cut in two
severance - division
shallot - onion
sham - pretense, imposter
shambles - disorder, mess
shard - sharp fragment of glass
sheen - luster
sheepish - shy, embarrassed
shibboleth - password
shirk - evade (work)
sliver - fragment, shaving
shoal - reef
shoring - supporting
shortcomings - personal deficiencies
shrew - virago
shrewd - clever, cunning
shrill - high-pitched
shun - avoid, spurn
shunt - turn aside
shyster - unethical lawyer
sibilant - a hissing sound
sibling - brother or sister
sickle - semicircular blade
sidereal - pertaining to the stars
sidle - move sideways, slither
siege - blockade
sierra - mountain range
sieve - strainer
signatory - signer
signet - a seal
silhouette - outline, profile
silo - storage tower
simian - monkey
simile - figure of speech
simper - smile, smirk
simulacrum - vague likeness
sinecure - position with little responsibility
sinewy - fibrous, stringy
singe - burn just the surface of something
singly - one by one, individually
singular - unique, extraordinary
sinister - evil, malicious
sinistral - left-handed
siphon - extract, tap
sire - forefather, to beget
siren - temptress
site - location
skeptical - doubtful
skinflint - miser
skirmish - a small battle
skittish - excitable, wary, jumpy
skulk - sneak about
skullduggery - trickery
slake - quench
slander - defame
slate - list of candidate
slaver - drivel, fawn
slay - kill
sleight - dexterity, skill
slew - an abundance
slither - slide, slink
slogan - motto
sloth - laziness
slovenly - sloppy
smattering - superficial knowledge
smelt - refine metal
smirk - smug look
smite - strike, afflict
smock - apron
snare - trap
snide - sarcastic, spiteful
snippet - morsel, small piece
snivel - whine, sniff
snub - ignore, slight
snuff - extinguish
sobriety - composed, abstinent, sober
sobriquet - nickname
socialite - one who is prominent in society
sociology - study of society
sodality - companionship
sodden - soaked
sojourn - trip, stopover
solace - consolation, comfort
solder - fuse, weld
solecism - ungrammatical construction
solemn - serious, somber
solemnity - seriousness
solicit - request
solicitous - considerate, concerned
soliloquy - monologue
solstice - furthest point
soluble - dissolvable
solvent - financially sound
somatic - pertaining to the body
somber - gloomy, solemn
somnambulist - sleepwalker
somnolent - sleepy
sonnet - short poem
sonorous - resonant, majestic
sop - morsel, compensation, offering
sophistry - specious reasoning
soporific - sleep inducing
soprano - high female voice
sordid - foul, ignoble
sorority - sisterhood
soubrette - actress, ingenue
souse - a drunk
sovereign - monarch
spar - fight
spasmodic - intermittent, fitful
spate - sudden outpouring
spawn - produce
specimen - sample
specious - false but plausible reasoning
spectacle - public display
spectral - ghostly
spectrum - range, gamut
speculate - conjecture
speleologist - one who studies caves
spew - eject
spindle - shaft
spindly - tall and thin
spinster - old maid
spire - pinnacle
spirited - lively
spirituous - alcohol, intoxicating
spite - malice, grudge
spittle - spit
splay - spread apart
spleen - resentment, wrath
splenetic - peevish
splurge - indulge
spontaneous - extemporaneous
sporadic - occurring irregularly
sportive - playful
spry - nimble
spume - foam, froth
spurious - false, counterfeit
spurn - to reject a person with scorn
squalid - filthy
squall - rain storm
squander - waste
squelch - crush, stifle
stagnant - stale, motionless
staid - demure, sedate
stalwart - pillar, strong, loyal
stamina - vigor, endurance
stanch - loyal
stanchion - prop, foundation
stanza - division of a poem
stark - desolate
startle - surprise
stately - impressive, noble
static - inactive, immobile
statue - regulation
staunch - loyal
stave - ward off
steadfast - loyal
stealth - secrecy, covertness
steeped - soaked, infused
stenography - shorthand
stentorian - loud or declamatory in tone
sterling - high quality
stern - strict
stevedore - longshoreman
stifle - suppress
stigma - mark of disgrace
stiletto - dagger
stilted - formal, stiff
stimulate - excite
stint - limit, assignment
stipend - payment
stipulate - specify, arrange
stodgy - stuffy, pompous
stoic - indifferent to pain or pleasure
stoke - prod, fuel
stole - long scarf
stolid - impassive
stout - stocky
strait - distress
stratagem - trick, military tactic
stratify - form into layers
stratum - layer
striate - to mark with stripes
stricture - censure, restriction
strife - conflict
striking - impressive, attractive
stringent - severe, strict
strive - endeavor
studious - diligent
stultify - inhibit, enfeeble
stunted - arrested development
stupefy - deaden, dumfound
stupendous - astounding
stupor - lethargy
stylize - formalize, artificial artistic style
stymie - hinder, thwart
suave - smooth, charming
sub - rosa in secret
subcutaneous - beneath the skin
subdue - conquer
subjugate - suppress
sublet - subcontract
sublimate - to redirect forbidden impulses (usually sexual) into socially accepted activities
sublime - lofty, excellent
sublunary - earthly
submit - yield, acquiesce
subordinate - lower in rank
subsequent - succeeding, following
subservient - servile, submissive
subside - diminish
subsidiary - subordinate
subsidize - financial assistance
substantiate - verify
substantive - substantial
subterfuge - cunning, ruse
subterranean - underground
subvert - undermine
succor - help, comfort
succulent - juicy, delicious
succumb - yield, submit
suffice - adequate
suffrage - vote
suffuse - pervade, permeate
suggestive - thought-provoking, risqué
sullen - sulky, sour
sully - stain
sultry - sweltering
summon - call for, arraign
sumptuous - opulent, luscious
sunder - split
sundry - various
superb - excellent
supercilious - arrogant
supererogatory - wanton, superfluous
superfluous - overabundant
superimpose - cover, place on top of
superintend - supervise
superlative - superior
supernumerary - subordinate
supersede - supplant
supervene - ensue, follow
supervise - oversee
supine - lying on the back
supplant - replace
supplication - prayer
suppress - subdue
surfeit - overabundance
surly - rude, crass
surmise - to guess
surmount - overcome
surname - family name
surpass - exceed, excel
surreal - dreamlike
surreptitious - secretive
surrogate - substitute
surveillance - close watch
susceptible - vulnerable
suspend - stop temporarily
sustenance - food
susurrant - whispering
suture - surgical stitch
svelte - slender
swank - fashionable
swarthy - dark (as in complexion)
swatch - strip of fabric
sweltering - hot
swivel - a pivot
sybarite - pleasure-seeker
sycophant - flatterer, flunky
syllabicate - divide into syllables
syllabus - schedule
sylph - a slim, graceful girl
sylvan - rustic
symbiotic - cooperative, working in close association
symmetry - harmony, congruence
symposium - panel (discussion)
symptomatic - indicative
synagogue - temple
syndicate - cartel
syndrome - set of symptoms
synod - council
synopsis - brief summary
synthesis - combination
systole - heart contraction

Letter T

tabernacle - temple
table - postpone
tableau - scene, backdrop
taboo - prohibition
tabulate - arrange
tacit - understood without being spoken
taciturn - untalkative
tactful - sensitive
tactics - strategy
tactile - tangible
taint - pollute
talion - punishment
tally - count
talon - claw
tandem - two or more things together
tang - strong taste
tangential - peripheral
tangible - touchable
tantalize - tease
tantamount - equivalent
taper - candle
tariff - tax on imported or exported goods
tarn - small lake
tarnish - taint
tarry - linger
taurine - bull-like
taut - tight
tautological - repetitious
tawdry - gaudy
technology - body of knowledge
tedious - boring, tiring
teem - swarm, abound
temerity - boldness
temperate - moderate
tempest - storm
tempestuous - agitated
tempo - speed
temporal - pertaining to time
tempt - entice
tenable - defensible, valid
tenacious - persistent
tendentious - biased
tenement - decaying apartment building
tenet - doctrine
tensile - stretchable
tentative - provisional
tenuous - thin, insubstantial
tenure - status given after a period of time
tepid - lukewarm
terminal - final
terminology - nomenclature
ternary - triple
terpsichorean - related to dance
terrain - the feature of land
terrapin - turtle
terrestrial - earthly
terse - concise
testament - covenant
testy - petulant
tether - tie down
theatrics - histrionics
theologian - one who studies religion
thesaurus - book of synonyms
thesis - proposition, topic
thespian - actor
thews - muscles
thorny - difficult
thrall - slave
threadbare - tattered
thrive - prosper
throes - anguish
throng - crowd
throttle - choke
thwart - to foil
tiara - crown
tidings - news, information
tiff - fight
timbre - tonal quality, resonance
timorous - fearful, timid
tincture - trace, vestige, tint
tinsel - tawdriness
tirade - scolding speech
titan - accomplished person
titanic - huge
titer - laugh nervously
tithe - donate one-tenth
titian - auburn
titillate - arouse
titular - in name only, figurehead
toady - fawner, sycophant
tocsin - alarm bell, signal
toil - drudgery
tome - large book
tonal - pertaining to sound
topography - science of map making
torment - harass
torpid - lethargic, inactive
torrid - scorching, passionate
torsion - twisting
torus - doughnut shaped object
totter - stagger
touchstone - standard
tousled - disheveled
tout - praise, brag
toxicologist - one who studies poisons
tractable - docile, manageable
traduce - slander
tranquilize - calm, anesthetize
transcribe - write a copy
transfigure - transform, exalt
transfix - impale
transfuse - insert, infuse
transgression - trespass, offense
transient - fleeting, temporary
transitory - fleeting
translucent - clear, lucid
transpire - happen
transpose - interchange
trauma - injury
travail - work, drudgery
traverse - cross
travesty - caricature, farce
treatise - book, dissertation
trek - journey
trenchant - incisive, penetrating
trepidation - fear
triad - group of three
tribunal - court
tributary - river
trite - commonplace, insincere
troglodyte - cave dweller
trollop - harlot
troublous - disturbed
trounce - thrash
troupe - group of actors
truckle - yield
truculent fierce, savage
trudge - march, slog
truism - self-evident truth
truncate - shorten
truncheon - club
tryst - meeting, rendezvous
tumbler - drinking glass
tumefy - swell
tumult - commotion
turbid - muddy, clouded
turgid - swollen
turpitude - depravity
tussle - fight
tussock - cluster of glass
tutelage - guardianship
twain - two
twinge - pain
tyrannical - dictatorial
tyranny - oppression
tyro - beginner

Letter U

ubiquitous - omnipresent, pervasive
ulterior - hidden, covert
ultimatum - demand
ululate - howl, wail
umbrage - resentment
unabashed - shameless, brazen
unabated - ceaseless
unaffected - natural, sincere
unanimity - agreement
unassuming - modest
unavailing - useless, futile
unawares - suddenly, unexpectedly
unbecoming - unfitting
unbridled - unrestrained
uncanny - mysterious, inexplicable
unconscionable - unscrupulous
uncouth - uncultured, crude
unctuous - insincere
undermine - weaken
underpin - support
underscore - emphasize
understudy - a stand-in
underworld - criminal world
underwrite - agree to finance, guarantee
undue - unjust, excessive
undulate - surge, fluctuate
unduly - excessive
unequivocal - unambiguous,categorical
unexceptionable - beyond criticism
unfailing - steadfast, unfaltering
unfathomable - puzzling, incomprehensible
unflagging - untiring, unrelenting
unflappable - not easily upset
unfrock - discharge
unfurl - open up, spread out
ungainly - awkward
uniformity - sameness
unilateral - action taken by only one party
unimpeachable - exemplary
unison - together
unkempt - disheveled
unmitigated - complete, harsh
unmoved - firm, steadfast
unprecedented - without previous occurrence
unremitting - relentless
unsavory - distasteful, offensive
unscathed - unhurt
unseat - displace
unseemly - unbecoming, improper
unstinting - generous
unsullied - spotless, pure
unsung - neglected, not receiving just recognition
untenable - cannot be achieved
untoward - perverse, unseemly
unwarranted - unjustified
unwieldy - awkward
unwitting - unintentional
upshot - result
urbane - refined, worldly
ursine - bear-like
usurp - seize, to appropriate
usury - lending money at high rates
utilitarian - pragmatic, useful
utopia - paradise
utter - complete
uxorious - a doting husband

Letter V

vacillate - waver
vacuous - inane, empty
vagary - whim
vain - unsuccessful
vainglorious - conceited
valediction - farewell speech
valiant - brave
validate - affirm, authenticate
valor - bravery
vanguard - leading position
vanquish - conquer
vapid - vacuous, insipid
variance - discrepancy
vassal - subject, subordinate
vaunt - brag
vehement - adamant
venal - mercenary, for the sake of money
vendetta - grudge, feud
veneer - false front, facade
venerable - revered
venial - excusable
venom - poison, spite
venture - risk, speculate
venturesome - bold, risky
venue - location
veracity - truthfulness
veranda - porch
verbatim - word for word, literal
verbose - wordy
verdant - green, lush
verdict - decision, judgment
vernacular - common speech
vertigo - dizziness
vestige - trace, remnant
veto - reject
vex - annoy
viable - capable of surviving, feasible
viaduct - waterway
viand - food
vicious - evil, cruel
vicissitude - changing fortunes
victuals - food
vie - compete
vigil - watch, sentry duty
vigilant - on guard
vignette - scene
vigor - vitality
vilify - defame, malign
vindicate - free from blame
vindictive - revengeful
virile - manly, strong
virtuoso - highly skilled artist
virulent - deadly, poisonous, infectious
visage - facial expression
viscid - thick, gummy
visitation - a formal visit
vital - necessary
vitiate - spoil, ruin
vitreous - glassy
vitriolic - scathing
vituperative - abusive, critical language
vivacious - lively, high-spirited
vivid - lifelike, clear
vivisection - experimentation on animals, dissection
vocation - occupation
vociferous - adamant, clamoring
vogue - fashion, chic
volant - agile
volatile - unstable, precarious
volition - free will
voluble - talkative
voluminous - bulky, extensive
voracious - hungry
votary - fan, aficionado
vouchsafe - confer, bestow
vulgarity - obscen
vulnerable - susceptible
vulpine - fox-like, cunning

Letter W

wager - bet
waggish - playful
waive - forego
wallow- indulge
wan - pale, pallid, listless
wane - dissipate, wither
want - need, poverty, lack of
wanton - lewd, abandoned, gratuitous
warrant - justification
wary - guarded, cautious
wastrel - spendthrift
waylay - ambush, accost
wean - remove from nursing, break a habit
weir - dam
welter - confusion, hodgepodge
wheedle - to coax with flattery
whet - stimulate
whiffle - vacillate
whimsical - capricious, playful
wield - exercise control
willful - deliberate, wanton
wily - shrewd, crafty
wince - cringe
windfall - bonus, boon
winnow - separate
winsome - charmingly innocent
wistful - sad yearning, melancholy
wither - shrivel
wizened - shriveled
woe - anguish, despair
wont - custom, habit
woo - court, seek favor
wraith - ghost
wrath - anger, fury
wreak - to inflict something violent
wrest - snatch
wretched - miserable
writ - summons, court order
writhe - contort, thrash about
wry - twisted, ironic sense of humor

Letter X

xenophillic - attraction to strangers
xenophobia - fear of foreigners
xylophone - musical percussion instrument

Letter Y

yarn - story, tale
yearn - desire strongly
yen - desire, yearning
yore - long ago
Young - Turks reformers

Letter Z

zeal - earnestness, passion
zealot - fanatic
zenith - summit
zephyr - gentle breeze