vocabulary words american literature

Vocabulary WordsAmerican Literature

Week #10

Pragmatic

PragmaticDefinition: (adj) concerned with practical matters

Synonym: realistic, logical, rational

Antonym: impractical, naïve

Pretentious

PretentiousDefinition: (adj) making a claim to

importance or distinction

Synonym: showy, pompous, exaggerated

Antonym: down-to-earth, sensible

Querulous

Querulous Definition: (adj) habitually complaining Synonym: critical, fussy, negative

Antonym: easy-going, calm

Reclusive

ReclusiveDefinition: (adj) withdrawn from society;

seeking solitude

Synonym: isolated, secluded, anti-social

Antonym: friendly, out-going

Renovation

Renovation Definition: (n) the act improving by

renewing and restoring

Synonym: make-over, repair

Antonym: damage, decline, worsening

Spontaneous

SpontaneousDefinition: (adj) happening or arising

without apparent cause

Synonym: impulsive, spur-of-the-moment

Antonym: planned, intentional, deliberate

Superfluous

Superfluous Definition: (adj) serving no useful purpose;

extra; unneeded

Synonym: unnecessary, excessive

Antonym: essential

Tenacious

TenaciousDefinition: (adj) holding fast or tending to

hold fast

Synonym: stubborn, persistent, determined

Antonym: weak, unsure, indecisive

Volition

VolitionDefinition: (n) act of willing or choosing

Synonym: wish, choice, decision

Antonym: intimidation, coercion, force

Voracious

VoraciousDefinition: (adj) having a huge appetite

Synonym: hungry, greedy, ravenous

Antonym: satisfied, full, satiated