1. ACT Power Plus Vocabulary Lesson Nine

2. machination – (n.) an evil design or plan Once again, the superhero foiled the machinations of the evil scientist. Synonyms scheme plot

3. pejorative – (adj.) having a negative effect; insulting Lenny resigned after overhearing his coworkers’ pejorative remarks. Synonyms disparaging derogatory Antonyms complimentary

4. harbinger – (n.) an omen or sign To many, the black cat is a harbinger of bad luck. Synonyms warning portent

5. nubile – (adj.) suitable for marriage in age and physical development, referring to a female In six years, she grew from a skinny twelve- year-old to a nubile young woman.

6. sapient – (adj.) wise; full of knowledge Everyone sought advice from the sapient monk who lived on the mountain. Synonyms sagacious Antonyms fatuous inane

7. chimerical – (adj.) imaginary; fantastic Little Tina had a chimerical notion that rabbits lived in trees. Synonyms absurd illusionary Antonyms practical

8. masochist – (n.) one who enjoys his or her own pain and suffering Sue accused her friend of being a masochist because he refused to go to the doctor despite his broken toes.

9. finesse – (n.) diplomacy; tact; artful management The diplomat had the finesse to deal with the troublesome nation. Synonyms skill cunning Antonyms tactlessness

10. heterogeneous – (adj.) different; dissimilar The platoon was a heterogeneous group of young men from various backgrounds. Synonyms diverse varied Antonyms homogeneous similar

11. eclectic – (adj.) choosing from various sources The eclectic furnishings were from different nations and historical periods. Synonyms selective Antonyms narrow

12. grandiose – (adj.) impressive; showy; magnificent The young couple could not afford the grandiose home, so they found a smaller house. Synonyms stately imposing Antonyms humble

13. raiment – (n.) clothing; garments The royal raiment of the princess is copied by the fashion industry for the department- store market. Synonyms overbearing arrogant masterful Antonyms servile submissive

14. blanch – (v.) to whiten; to make pale Sue’s face blanched when she saw the charred remains of her house.

15. hybrid – (n.) anything of mixed origin The hybrid roses had the best traits of two different species.

16. idiosyncrasy – (n.) a peculiar personality trait Hiding money in tin cans was only one of the old man’s idiosyncrasies. Synonyms eccentricity quirk