English 9 Vocabulary Lesson 20 The Roots –SCRIBE– and –SCRIPT–

Vocabulary List 1) Ascribe 2) Circumscribe 3) Inscribe 4) Nondescript 5) Prescribe 6) Proscribe 7) Scripture 8) Subscribe 9) Subscript 10) Transcribe

Ascribe (trans. verb) a) To regard as caused by; assign; attribute EX. The committee ascribed poor attendance at the lecture to the lack of advertising.

Circumscribe (trans. verb) a) To draw a line around; encircle b) To confine within or as if within bounds; limit or restrict c) To construct or be constructed around a geometrical figure so as to touch as many points as possible EX. The outdoor running track circumscribed an area of grass and weeds.

Inscribe (trans. verb) a) To write, print, carve, or engrave words or letters on a surface b) To sign or write a brief message in or on a book or picture when giving it as a gift; dedicate to someone c) To enter a name on a list or in a register; enroll d) To draw within a figure so as to touch in as many places as possible EX. The sculptors inscribed their names on the base of the monument.

Nondescript (adjective) a) Lacking in distinctive or interesting qualities and therefore difficult to describe; dull; drab EX. The lost dog was a nondescript color and breed.

Prescribe (trans. verb) a) To order or recommend the use of a remedy or treatment b) To set down as a rule or guide; dictate c) To state or indicate specifically; specify EX. The coach prescribed ice packs for Joe’s bruised ankle.

Proscribe (trans. verb) a) To prohibit; forbid as harmful or unlawful b) To denounce or condemn EX. A notice posted on the lifeguard’s stand at the beach proscribed surfing.

Scripture (noun) a) A sacred writing book b) A statement regarded as authoritative EX. The ancient scripture had been carefully preserved.

Subscribe (intrans. verb) a) To contract to receive and pay in advance for something, such as a magazine, concert tickets, etc. b) To agree or approve EX. George subscribes to a monthly book club.

Subscript (noun) a) A distinguishing symbol, such as a letter or numeral, written below and to the right of a letter or number, as in a mathematical expression or chemical formula EX. Monica’s equations were incorrect because she had forgotten to include the necessary subscripts.

Transcribe (trans. verb) a) To make a written or typewritten copy of, as from notes b) To adapt or arrange a musical composition for a voice or instrument other than the original EX. Russ transcribed the minutes of the club meeting.