1. Week 9 SAT Words

2. enigma (n): a mystery, hard to understand or explain
Death is the ultimate enigma; we will never understand its mysteries.

3. indifferent (adj): having no preference

4. candor (n): frankness, honesty
Nicole always prided herself on her absolute candor, which extended even to her break-up methods.

5. reticent (adj): restrained, uncommunicative

6. autonomy (n): self-rule, independence
Tibet has been arguing for its autonomy for years, but China insists that it is a part of the PRC.

7. ascetic (adj): without indulgence or luxuries
This Hindu man lives a very ascetic lifestyle, eschewing the accumulation of material wealth.

8. banal (adj): commonplace, dull
When asked to analyze themes of Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men,” it is important to stay away from banal observations.

9. ambiguous (adj): unclear, undecided
The ending of “Of Mice and Men” is ambiguous in terms of what exactly will happen to George.

10. ameliorate (v): to improve
Many aid organizations sent money, supplies and people to ameliorate the conditions in Haiti after the earthquake there.

11. atrophy (v): to waste away from lack of use
Don’t let your brain atrophy over the summer—continue reading and engaging your brain!