(v) To corrupt, make worse by the addition of something of lesser value. Example: Hospitals take strict precautions to assure that nothing ______________ the blood supply. Synonyms: contaminate, pollute, sully Antonyms: purify, purge

(adj.) able to use both hands equally well; very skillful; deceitful, hypocritical. Example: Occasionally a teacher will come across a child who shows __________ abilities. Synonyms: versatile Antonyms: clumsy, all thumbs

(v) to make larger, increase. Synonyms: enlarge, supplement, amplify Antonyms: decrease, diminish

Deprived of; made unhappy through a loss. Example: Individuals who live to be very old may eventually find themselves _______ of friends and family. Synonyms: bereaved Antonyms: replete; well-provided The girl is bereft of her senses! (She’s lost her good sense.)

(v) To position or arrange; to utilize; to form up Example: A bugle call is a signal used to ____________ troops for inspection. Synonyms: station, organize

(adj) stern, unyielding, gloomy, ill-humored Example: Dicken’s Mr. Gradgrind in the novel Hard Times is an example of a character with a ___________ and sullen disposition. Synonyms: harsh, bleak, forbidding Antonyms: cheery, inviting

To stare with open mouth; to open the mouth; to open wide Example: First-time visitors to Niagara Falls can be expected to __________ at the fantastic sight.

(v) to utter taunting words; (n) an expression of scorn Example: The recruits rushed into battle so that no one could _________ at them for cowardice. Example 2: Voters may reject a candidate who resorts to personal __________ instead of discussing the issues. Synonyms: ridicule, mock, insult, jeer Antonyms: compliment, praise

(n) an external appearance, cover, mask Example: The thieves gained entry to the home by presenting themselves in the _________ of police officers. Synonyms: costume, semblance, pretense