Vocabulary Words American Literature Week #3

Abstain

Abstain Definition: v. – to refrain from doing Synonym: withhold, avoid, cease, prohibit Antonym: indulge, use

Boisterous

Boisterous Definition: adj. – noisy and lacking in restraint or discipline Synonym: riotous, vociferous, unruly Antonym: quiet, calm, restrained

Capitulate

Capitulate Definition: v. – to surrender under agreed conditions Synonym: succumb, secede, confer Antonym: defend, fight, overpower

Diligent

Diligent Definition: adj. – quietly and steadily persevering in detail Synonym: attentive, busy, steadfast, studious Antonym: lazy, negligent,

Exemplary

Exemplary Definition: adj. – worthy or imitation, serving as an example Synonym: representative, model, top-notch, best Antonym: inferior, worst

Hedonist

Hedonist Definition: n. – someone motivated by desires for sensual pleasures Synonym: glutton, libertine, thrill-seeker Antonym: Puritan

Inevitable

Inevitable Definition: adj. – incapable of being avoided or prevented Synonym: undeniable, inescapable, destined Antonym: avoidable, doubtful, unsure

Orator

Orator Definition: n. – a person who delivers a speech or “oration” Synonym: lecturer, speaker, announcer Antonym:

Prosaic

Prosaic Definition: adj. – not fanciful or imaginative; plain Synonym: simple, routine, lackluster, dull Antonym: creative, imaginative, vibrant

Rancorous

Rancorous Definition: adj. – showing deep-seated resentment Synonym: bitter, hateful, virulent, Antonym: content, pleasant, loving, nice