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GRE Most used Vocabulary
1. Aberration – It’s a noun, derived from the Latin term “aberrare” which means “to wander away”. It’s used to denote a departure from what is normal, usual, or expected, typically an unwelcome one.
Detailed Explanation: If something is an aberration, it’s unusual and not typical. An action could be considered an aberration if it’s unexpected or deviates from the norm. It is often used in scientific, statistical, and social contexts.
Example: The sudden increase in temperature in the middle of winter was an aberration.
Funny Example: Wearing a Halloween costume to a Christmas party would be a clear aberration.
2. Belie – It’s a verb, stemming from the Old English term “beleogan”, which means “to deceive by lying”. It is used to describe the action of misrepresenting or disguising the true nature of something.
Detailed Explanation: When something belies something else, it shows or gives a false representation. A smile can belie sadness, a calm surface can belie turbulent depths, and a strong performance can belie underlying issues.
Example: Her trembling hands belied her calm voice.
Funny Example: His innocent face belied the fact that he had just hidden all the cookies.
3. Cacophony – This noun comes from the Greek words “kakos”, meaning “bad”, and “phone”, meaning “voice”. It refers to a harsh, discordant mixture of sounds.
Detailed Explanation: Cacophony is a term used to describe a loud, harsh mix of sounds that is unpleasant to listen to. It’s often used in literary contexts to convey discomfort or a chaotic environment.
Example: The cacophony of the busy city streets made it difficult to concentrate.
Funny Example: The cacophony created by my kids playing instruments for the first time was like a cat symphony gone horribly wrong.
4. Disparage – This verb has roots in the Latin word “disparare”, which means “to compare unequally”. It refers to the act of regarding or representing as being of little worth.
Detailed Explanation: When you disparage someone or something, you express a low opinion about them. It often implies a disrespectful or dismissive attitude.
Example: He never missed an opportunity to disparage his competitors.
Funny Example: My cat often looks at me in a way that disparages my life choices, especially when I’m opening another bag of chips.
5. Equivocate – It’s a verb, coming from the Latin “aequus” (equal) and “vocare” (call). It refers to the act of being deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or to avoid commitment.
Detailed Explanation: Equivocation is essentially dodging the question without lying. When someone equivocates, they’re being intentionally vague or ambiguous to mislead someone or avoid giving a direct answer.
Example: When asked about his plans for the holiday, he equivocated, as he didn’t want to reveal that he was going fishing.
Funny Example: When asked if she had eaten the last piece of cake, my little sister equivocated, saying, “Well, what really is the ‘last piece’?”
Remember, exposure and usage are key to truly integrating new vocabulary into your lexicon. So, try using these words in your daily conversation or writing practice.
6. Fastidious – This adjective is derived from the Latin “fastidium,” which means “loathing.” It is used to describe someone very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail.
Detailed Explanation: A fastidious person is meticulous, picky, and hard to please. They pay great attention to detail and want things to be just right.
Example: She was so fastidious about her diet that she would measure every meal down to the gram.
Funny Example: My dog is so fastidious that he won’t eat his food unless it’s arranged in a perfect circle in his bowl.
7. Gregarious – This adjective is from the Latin “gregarius,” which literally means “belonging to a flock.” It describes someone who is sociable and enjoys being in crowds.
Detailed Explanation: A gregarious person is friendly, outgoing, and enjoys being in social situations. Animals that live in groups, like some species of birds, can also be described as gregarious.
Example: Her gregarious nature made her the life of the party.
Funny Example: The gregarious penguin enjoyed sliding down the hill with his buddies more than eating fish.
8. Harangue – It’s a verb, and sometimes a noun, derived from Old French “harangue,” meaning “a public speech.” As a verb, it means to lecture (someone) at length in an aggressive and critical manner.
Detailed Explanation: When you harangue someone, you’re giving them a long, intense, and passionate tirade. It’s typically negative and feels like a verbal attack.
Example: The manager’s harangue about punctuality left the employees feeling berated.
Funny Example: My grandmother would often harangue me about the dangers of stepping on cracks in the sidewalk.
9. Ineffable – This adjective comes from Latin “ineffabilis,” meaning “that cannot be expressed in words.” It is used to describe something too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words.
Detailed Explanation: If something is ineffable, it’s so wonderful, terrible, or strange that you can’t describe it with words.
Example: The view of the Grand Canyon was so breathtaking, it was simply ineffable.
Funny Example: The taste of the mystery meat in the cafeteria was ineffable, and not in a good way.
10. Juxtapose – This verb comes from Latin “juxta,” which means “next to,” and “pose,” which means “place or put.” It is used to place or deal with close together for contrasting effect.
Detailed Explanation: When you juxtapose two things, you’re placing them together or comparing them to highlight their differences.
Example: The documentary juxtaposes the lives of the richest and poorest families in the city.
Funny Example: When you juxtapose my cooking with a professional chef’s, it’s like comparing a child’s doodle to the Mona Lisa.
11. Laconic – This adjective is derived from the term “Lakonikos”, which refers to the Spartan region Laconia known for its citizens’ brief speech. It describes someone who uses very few words.
Detailed Explanation: A laconic person is someone who speaks or writes in a concise and succinct manner, often to the point of seeming rude or mysterious.
Example: His laconic reply suggested he was not interested in small talk.
Funny Example: The laconic cat merely blinked when asked who knocked over the plant, as if to say, “Do I look like I have time for your inquiries?”
12. Munificent – This adjective comes from the Latin “munificent-“, meaning “generous”. It describes someone very generous or a gift or sum of money larger or more generous than is usual or necessary.
Detailed Explanation: A munificent person gives more than is necessary or expected. This term is often used to describe grand and generous gifts or acts of charity.
Example: The munificent donation from the philanthropist enabled the construction of the new library.
Funny Example: My friend was so munificent with her snacks, you’d think she was trying to feed a small army instead of a study group.
13. Nefarious – This adjective is derived from the Latin “nefarious”, which means “wicked”. It describes an action or activity that is wicked or criminal.
Detailed Explanation: If something or someone is described as nefarious, it means they are known for being wicked, evil, or criminal in nature.
Example: The nefarious activities of the gang were brought to light during the trial.
Funny Example: My kitten has a nefarious plan to unroll all the toilet paper in the house, one bathroom at a time.
14. Obdurate – This adjective is from Latin “obduratus”, meaning “hardened”. It describes someone stubbornly refusing to change their opinion or course of action.
Detailed Explanation: When you’re obdurate, you’re incredibly stubborn and unmoving in your decisions or views. No matter what others say, you refuse to change your stance.
Example: Despite the pleas of his advisers, the president remained obdurate on his decision.
Funny Example: My obdurate dog insists on walking on the left side, even if that means pulling me into bushes.
15. Pulchritudinous – This adjective comes from the Latin “pulchritudo”, meaning “beauty”. It refers to physical beauty, especially a woman’s.
Detailed Explanation: If you describe someone as pulchritudinous, you’re saying they have great physical beauty and attractiveness. Despite its meaning, it’s not always taken as a compliment due to its cumbersome sound.
Example: The pulchritudinous actress was admired by many.
Funny Example: The pulchritudinous parrot preened, clearly aware of his stunning array of colorful feathers.
16. Querulous – This adjective is derived from the Latin “querulus”, which means “full of complaints”. It describes someone who complains a lot or in a petulant or whining manner.
Detailed Explanation: A querulous person is someone who’s prone to complaining or whining. It’s often used to describe the tone of someone’s voice when they’re being particularly grumpy.
Example: The querulous passenger didn’t stop complaining about the flight delay.
Funny Example: My querulous parrot won’t stop squawking about the brand of his birdseed, acting like a feathery food critic.
17. Reproach – This verb comes from the Old French “reprocher,” which means “to blame.” It refers to the expression of disapproval or disappointment.
Detailed Explanation: When you reproach someone, you express disappointment or disapproval of their actions. It’s often used when someone needs to meet expectations or behave appropriately.
Example: She blamed her team for not meeting the project deadline.
Funny Example: My dog reproached me with such a disappointed look when I pretended to throw the ball but didn’t.
18. Stolid – This adjective is from Latin “solidus”, which means “unmovable.” It describes a calm, dependable person who shows little emotion or animation.
Detailed Explanation: Stolid people don’t easily show their emotions or reactions. This can be an advantage in stressful situations, but can also make them seem dull or unresponsive.
Example: Despite the chaos around him, the fireman remained stolid and focused on his task.
Funny Example: No matter how many times I play peek-a-boo with my stolid cat, she stares at me like I’m the one who needs to see a vet.
19. Truculent – This adjective comes from the Latin “truculentus”, meaning “fierce”. It describes a person eager or quick to argue or fight, aggressively defiant.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is truculent, they’re quick to argue and can be aggressively defiant. This word is often used to describe someone who’s harsh, brutal, or confrontational.
Example: The truculent child was always talking back to his teachers.
Funny Example: The truculent squirrel on our campus picks fights with the university students over their lunches.
20. Ubiquitous – This adjective is derived from the Latin “ubique”, meaning “everywhere”. It describes something that appears everywhere or is very common.
Detailed Explanation: If something is ubiquitous, it’s found everywhere. Nowadays, it’s often used to describe widespread things, especially things that are common in a particular time period or place.
Example: Nowadays, smartphones are ubiquitous, everyone seems to have one.
Funny Example: My friend’s selfies are so ubiquitous online that I’m starting to recognize her duck face in my dreams.
21. Vex – This verb comes from Latin “vexare,” which means “to shake, jolt or annoy.” It describes making someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters.
Detailed Explanation: When you vex someone, you’re annoying them or causing them to feel frustrated. It’s often used when the cause of the frustration is seen as trivial or minor, but it can be used in more serious contexts as well.
Example: The constant noise from the construction site vexed the office workers.
Funny Example: My cat has a vexing habit of sitting on my laptop exactly when I need to work.
22. Whimsical – This adjective is derived from “whim,” which implies a sudden desire or change of mind. It describes playfully quaint or fanciful behavior or humor.
Detailed Explanation: If something is whimsical, it’s playful, fun, and unpredictable. It’s often used to describe things that are quirky and cute, and it has a positive connotation.
Example: The artist’s whimsical drawings always brought a smile to my face.
Funny Example: My aunt is so whimsical that she once used a watering can as a purse because she thought it was quirky.
23. Xenophobic – This adjective comes from the Greek words “xenos” (foreign) and “phobia” (fear). It describes someone who has an intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is xenophobic, they fear or dislike people from countries or cultures that are not their own. It’s often used in discussions about prejudice and discrimination.
Example: The politician’s xenophobic statements caused an outcry among the immigrant communities.
Funny Example: My xenophobic goldfish always hides behind the rock whenever I bring home a new plant for his tank.
24. Yield – This verb is from Old English “gieldan,” meaning “to pay, repay.” It refers to producing or providing (a natural, agricultural, or industrial product).
Detailed Explanation: When you yield something, you’re producing or providing it. It can also mean to give way to arguments, demands, or pressure.
Example: The apple trees yielded an impressive harvest this year.
Funny Example: I yield to my cat’s relentless demands for treats under extreme pressure.
25. Zealous – This adjective is derived from the Greek “zelos” meaning “zeal”. It describes someone having or showing zeal i.e., great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is zealous, they’re full of zeal. In other words, they have a lot of passion, enthusiasm, and energy for something they believe in.
Example: He’s a zealous supporter of animal rights.
Funny Example: My zealous pursuit of the perfect slice of pizza led me to try every pizzeria in town.
I hope these explanations and examples help you better understand and
26. Abstain – This verb comes from Latin “abstineō,” meaning “I withhold.” It refers to the deliberate avoidance of doing or consuming something by choice.
Detailed Explanation: When you abstain from something, you intentionally avoid doing it, often for moral, legal, or health reasons.
Example: He abstained from alcohol while training for the marathon.
Funny Example: After a terrible haircut, I’ve decided to abstain from using scissors and now I live in fear of gift-wrapping.
27. Benevolent – This adjective comes from Latin “benevolentem,” meaning “well-wishing.” It describes someone who is kind and generous.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is benevolent, they are kind and generous, often going out of their way to help others.
Example: The benevolent billionaire donated much of his fortune to charities.
Funny Example: My benevolent cat sometimes graces me with a dead bug, her version of a thoughtful gift.
28. Capricious – This adjective comes from the Italian “capriccioso,” meaning “whimsical” or “fickle.” It describes someone who changes their mind or mood unpredictably.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is capricious, they often change their mind unexpectedly and may be unpredictable in their behavior or decisions.
Example: The CEO’s capricious decisions made the company’s future uncertain.
Funny Example: My capricious pet turtle seems to like his rock one day and tries to escape from it the next.
29. Dilatory – This adjective comes from the Latin “dilatorius,” which means “tending to delay.” It describes someone who is slow to act or intends to cause delay.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is dilatory, they are slow to do things and often cause delays, either intentionally or due to procrastination.
Example: His dilatory response meant that we missed the deadline.
Funny Example: My dog has a dilatory approach to going out in the rain, usually involving him hiding under the bed.
30. Ebullient – This adjective comes from the Latin “ebullire,” meaning “to boil over.” It describes someone who is cheerful and full of energy.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is ebullient, they are full of excitement, enthusiasm, and energy.
Example: The ebullient child couldn’t stop jumping up and down at the prospect of going to the amusement park.
Funny Example: After finding a long-lost squeaky toy, my dog was so ebullient that she did laps around the living room.
Studying and remembering these words will be easier if you incorporate them into your everyday use, so try to find opportunities to use these words when speaking and writing.
31. Fastidious – This adjective comes from the Latin “fastidium,” which means “disgust.” It describes someone very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail.
Detailed Explanation: A fastidious person is meticulous, careful, and wants everything to be in order. They pay great attention to details and want everything to be just right.
Example: The fastidious editor noticed a tiny error in the manuscript.
Funny Example: My fastidious cat spends more time grooming his fur than I spend getting ready in the morning.
32. Garner – This verb comes from Old French “gernier,” meaning “granary.” It refers to gather or collect (something, especially information or approval).
Detailed Explanation: When you garner something, you gather or collect it, often after much work or effort.
Example: The detective was able to garner enough evidence to solve the case.
Funny Example: I’ve managed to garner a sizable collection of mismatched socks over the years.
33. Hackneyed – This adjective comes from “hackney,” an overworked horse for hire. It describes a phrase or idea that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect.
Detailed Explanation: If something is hackneyed, it’s overused and therefore no longer effective or interesting.
Example: “Love at first sight” is a hackneyed theme in many romantic novels.
Funny Example: The phrase “keep calm and carry on” is so hackneyed, even my stress ball is rolling its eyes at it.
34. Ineffable – This adjective comes from Latin “ineffabilis,” which means “that cannot be expressed in words.” It describes a feeling or experience that is too overwhelming or great to be put into words.
Detailed Explanation: If something is ineffable, it’s too great, intense, or overwhelming to be expressed in words.
Example: The beauty of the Grand Canyon was ineffable; no words could capture the experience.
Funny Example: I felt joy when I found the missing TV remote in the couch cushions.
35. Jeopardize – This verb originates from “jeopardy,” a Middle English term for danger or risk. It refers to putting (someone or something) into a situation in which there is a risk of harm, loss, or failure.
Detailed Explanation: When you jeopardize something, you put it at risk or in danger.
Example: Don’t jeopardize your health by smoking cigarettes.
Funny Example: The neighborhood rooster’s early morning serenade jeopardized my plan to sleep in on Saturday.
36. Kindle – This verb has Old Norse roots, “kynda,” which means “to light a fire.” It refers to the act of starting a fire or igniting something, and metaphorically, arousing or inspiring (an emotion or feeling).
Detailed Explanation: When you kindle something, you start a fire, but it’s often used metaphorically to talk about stimulating interest or ideas.
Example: His speech kindled a sense of hope among the listeners.
Funny Example: My attempt to kindle an interest in cleaning was quickly extinguished when I found an old sandwich under my bed.
37. Loquacious – This adjective is derived from Latin “loquax,” meaning “talkative.” It describes someone who talks a great deal.
Detailed Explanation: A loquacious person is someone who likes to talk a lot, sometimes excessively so.
Example: The loquacious host kept the party lively with her endless stories.
Funny Example: My loquacious parrot has picked up some phrases and now provides a running commentary on my cooking skills.
38. Mundane – This adjective comes from the Latin “mundus,” meaning “world.” It describes something ordinary, commonplace, or unexciting.
Detailed Explanation: If something is mundane, it’s ordinary or commonplace. It’s often used to refer to boring or dull aspects of life or work.
Example: He was tired of his mundane job and longed for excitement.
Funny Example: My dog’s mundane routine involves chasing his tail in the morning, napping in the afternoon, and begging for treats in the evening.
39. Nefarious – This adjective comes from the Latin “nefarius,” meaning “wicked.” It describes actions or activities that are wicked or criminal.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is nefarious, they are wicked, evil, or immoral, often in a way that involves illegal activities.
Example: The villain hatched a nefarious plot to take over the city.
Funny Example: The nefarious squirrel stole all the birdseed and left a trail of empty shells as evidence.
40. Obsolete – This adjective originates from Latin “obsoletus,” meaning “grown old, worn out.” It describes something that is no longer used or outdated.
Detailed Explanation: If something is obsolete, it is outdated or no longer used, often because it has been replaced by something newer and more effective.
Example: With the advent of digital cameras, film cameras became largely obsolete.
Funny Example: My flip phone is so obsolete that even my grandma teases me.
41. Prolific – This adjective comes from Latin “prolificus,” meaning “fruitful.” It describes a person, plant, or animal producing much fruit or foliage or many offspring; in general context, it refers to present in large numbers or quantities; plentiful.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is prolific, they produce a lot of something, whether it’s a writer producing many books, a tree bearing many fruits, or an artist creating many works of art.
Example: The prolific author had written over fifty books.
Funny Example: My garden has a prolific zucchini plant; I’ve made so much zucchini bread that my neighbors are hiding from me.
42. Querulous – This adjective comes from Latin “querulus,” meaning “full of complaints.” It describes someone who complains a lot.
Detailed Explanation: A querulous person is one who often complains about things.
Example: The querulous customer made the cashier’s job very difficult.
Funny Example: My querulous cat voiced her disapproval of the new brand of cat food by knocking her bowl over.
43. Reticent – This adjective comes from Latin “reticentem,” meaning “silent.” It describes someone who is not revealing their thoughts or feelings readily.
Detailed Explanation: A reticent person is reserved and doesn’t readily share their thoughts or feelings.
Example: The reticent student rarely spoke up in class, but was an excellent writer.
Funny Example: My reticent dog wouldn’t reveal where he buried his favorite toy in the yard.
44. Stoic – This adjective comes from the philosophy “Stoicism,” which advocates accepting fate calmly without displaying emotion. It describes someone who is able to endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining.
Detailed Explanation: A stoic person endures hardship without complaining or showing much emotion.
Example: Despite the difficult conditions, the mountain climbers remained stoic.
Funny Example: Despite falling in the bathtub, my stoic rubber duck maintained its cheerful smile.
45. Transient – This adjective comes from Latin “transiens,” meaning “going across.” It describes something that lasts only for a short time; impermanent.
Detailed Explanation: If something is transient, it doesn’t last long and is temporary.
Example: The transient storm left just as quickly as it had arrived.
Funny Example: My cat’s interest in her new toy was transient; she was more fascinated by its box.
46. Ubiquitous – This adjective comes from the Latin “unique,” meaning “everywhere.” It describes something that appears or is found everywhere.
Detailed Explanation: If something is ubiquitous, it’s found everywhere or seems to be everywhere at the same time.
Example: Nowadays, smartphones are ubiquitous, and it’s hard to imagine life without them.
Funny Example: During the holiday season, the song “Jingle Bells” is so ubiquitous that I think I heard it in my dreams.
47. Volatile – This adjective comes from the Latin “volatilis,” meaning “flying.” It describes something that is easily evaporated at normal temperatures, or liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse.
Detailed Explanation: Something volatile can change quickly and unpredictably, often for the worse. It can also refer to substances that easily evaporate.
Example: The political situation in the country was volatile and could change dramatically from day to day.
Funny Example: My ice cream’s relationship with summer heat was volatile; it went from solid to puddle in minutes.
48. Wary – This adjective comes from the Old English “wær,” meaning “prudent, aware.” It describes feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.
Detailed Explanation: If you are wary, you are cautious and on guard for potential dangers or problems.
Example: The hiker was wary of the steep cliff and stayed well away from its edge.
Funny Example: After the vacuum cleaner incident, my dog is so wary of it that he hides in a different room when I even open the closet.
49. Xenophile – This noun comes from the Greek “xenos” (foreign) and “philos” (loving). It describes a person who is attracted to foreign peoples, cultures, or customs.
Detailed Explanation: A xenophile is someone who is interested in other cultures and people from foreign countries, and often loves learning about or exploring these different cultures.
Example: As a xenophile, she loved traveling and immersing herself in different cultures.
Funny Example: My xenophile cat seems to prefer French accordion music over any other kind.
50. Yoke – This noun comes from the Old English “geoc,” a wooden crosspiece fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to the plow or cart they are to pull. Metaphorically, it refers to being linked or connected to something, especially something burdensome.
Detailed Explanation: A yoke is a wooden bar placed over the necks of animals so they can pull a plow together. Figuratively, it can mean to join or link together, or a burden or something that is oppressive.
Example: They were yoked together by their mutual love of art.
Funny Example: I feel yoked to my email, it’s like a digital leash that never stops buzzing.
51. Zealot – This noun comes from the Greek “zelotes,” meaning “a zealous follower.” A zealot is someone who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, political, or other ideals.
Detailed Explanation: A zealot is a person who is extremely passionate, to the point of being fanatical, about a specific cause, whether it be religious, political, or otherwise.
Example: The revolutionary was a zealot who was determined to overthrow the existing regime.
Funny Example: My neighbor is such a gardening zealot, I swear he’d be out there weeding in the middle of a hurricane.
52. Abrogate – This verb comes from Latin “abrogat-,” meaning “repealed.” To abrogate is to repeal or do away with a law, right, or formal agreement.
Detailed Explanation: If a rule or agreement is abrogated, it is officially ended or cancelled.
Example: The king decided to abrogate the treaty, causing distress among his advisors.
Funny Example: My cat seems to think she can abrogate the laws of gravity when chasing after a laser pointer.
53. Belie – This verb comes from Old English “beleogan,” meaning “to deceive by lying.” To belie is to fail to give a true impression of (something); disguise or contradict.
Detailed Explanation: If something belies something else, it hides the true situation, giving a false idea or impression.
Example: Her cheerful demeanor belied the sadness she felt inside.
Funny Example: My dog’s size belies his courage; he might be small, but he’ll defend his squeaky toy from any perceived threat.
54. Cajole – This verb comes from Old French “cajoler,” meaning “to chatter like a jay bird,” which was seen as deceptive. To cajole is to persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery.
Detailed Explanation: When you cajole someone, you persuade them to do something by flattering them or gently teasing them.
Example: He tried to cajole his girlfriend into going to the football game with him.
Funny Example: I had to cajole my grumpy cat out of the Christmas tree with a can of tuna.
55. Decimate – This verb comes from Latin “decimatus,” meaning “tithed.” Its original meaning referred to killing one in every ten soldiers as a punishment. Now, it generally means to kill, destroy, or remove a large percentage or part of.
Detailed Explanation: When something is decimated, it is heavily damaged or destroyed, often by removing a large part of it.
Example: The forest was decimated by the fire.
Funny Example: The cookie jar was decimated when the kids came home from school, leaving only crumbs.
56. Ebullient – This adjective comes from Latin “ebullire,” meaning “to boil over.” It describes someone who is cheerful and full of energy.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is ebullient, they’re extremely cheerful, lively, and energetic.
Example: After receiving the good news, she was in an ebullient mood for the rest of the day.
Funny Example: My ebullient dog, on seeing a squirrel, launched himself into the air like a furry missile.
57. Facetious – This adjective comes from the Latin “facetia,” meaning “jest.” It describes treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor; flippant.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is being facetious, they’re making light of something serious or making a joke that’s inappropriate for the situation.
Example: Her facetious remarks during the meeting were not appreciated by the boss.
Funny Example: When asked about my cooking skills, I said facetiously, “I can boil water without burning it.”
58. Gregarious – This adjective comes from the Latin “gregarius,” meaning “belonging to a flock.” It describes someone who is fond of company; sociable.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is gregarious, they enjoy being around people and are very sociable.
Example: He was a gregarious individual who could strike up a conversation with anyone.
Funny Example: My gregarious parrot chats with the mirror, convinced he’s made a new best friend.
59. Harangue – This noun comes from the Old French “arenguer,” meaning “to speak in public.” It refers to a lengthy and aggressive speech.
Detailed Explanation: A harangue is a long, forceful speech, often delivered to criticize something or to persuade someone to do something.
Example: The politician’s harangue went on for over an hour.
Funny Example: My dog gave me a harangue of barks and howls, protesting against bath time.
60. Incredulous – This adjective comes from Latin “incredulus,” meaning “unbelieving.” It describes someone who is unwilling or unable to believe something.
Detailed Explanation: If you’re incredulous, you can’t or won’t believe something.
Example: He gave me an incredulous look when I told him I had won the lottery.
Funny Example: My cat stared at the new puppy with an incredulous and slightly offended look.
61. Juxtapose – This verb comes from Latin “juxta,” meaning “next to,” and French “poser,” meaning “to place.” It describes the placement of things close together or side by side for comparison or contrast.
Detailed Explanation: To juxtapose is to place two things side by side, usually for the purpose of comparing or contrasting them.
Example: The art exhibit juxtaposed Picasso’s early and later works to show his evolution as an artist.
Funny Example: In a humorous photo, my friend juxtaposed his Chihuahua next to his Great Dane, highlighting their drastic size difference.
62. Kinetic – This adjective comes from Greek “kinētikos,” meaning “moving.” It pertains to motion, or active and energetic action or movement.
Detailed Explanation: If something is kinetic, it has to do with motion. It’s often used to describe the energy that a body possesses by virtue of being in motion.
Example: The sculpture had a kinetic component that moved with the wind.
Funny Example: My toddler is so kinetic that we joke she’s like a perpetual motion machine.
63. Lugubrious – This adjective comes from Latin “lugubris,” meaning “mournful.” It describes looking or sounding sad and dismal.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is lugubrious, they appear very sad, solemn, or gloomy.
Example: After the loss, the team had a lugubrious look about them.
Funny Example: My cat gave me a lugubrious look when the vet told him he needed to go on a diet.
64. Meticulous – This adjective comes from Latin “meticulosus,” meaning “fearful.” It describes a person who shows great attention to detail, or who is very careful and precise.
Detailed Explanation: If you’re meticulous, you pay careful attention to detail.
Example: She was meticulous in her research, ensuring every detail was accurate.
Funny Example: My dog is so meticulous about his toys that he arranges them in a perfect line before bed.
65. Nostalgic – This adjective comes from Greek “nostos” (homecoming) and “algos” (pain, grief, distress). It describes a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past.
Detailed Explanation: If you’re feeling nostalgic, you’re experiencing a fondness for the past, often tinged with a bit of sadness or longing.
Example: Hearing the old song on the radio made him feel nostalgic for his high school years.
Funny Example: Watching the reruns of cartoons from my childhood always makes me feel nostalgic, even for the ridiculous fashion trends.
66. Obstinate – This adjective comes from Latin “obstinatus,” meaning “resolute, resolved.” It describes someone stubbornly refusing to change their opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade them to do so.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is obstinate, they’re stubborn and unwilling to change their views or behavior, even when it might be beneficial to do so.
Example: The obstinate child refused to put on his jacket, despite the cold.
Funny Example: My obstinate cat insists on sleeping in the most uncomfortable-looking places, like atop a pile of shoes.
67. Pertinent – This adjective comes from Latin “pertinens,” meaning “pertaining to.” It describes something that is relevant or applicable to a particular matter.
Detailed Explanation: If something is pertinent, it’s relevant to the matter at hand.
Example: She asked a few pertinent questions about the project.
Funny Example: My dog seems to think that begging is pertinent to every mealtime, despite never getting table scraps.
68. Quixotic – This adjective comes from the character Don Quixote in the novel by Miguel de Cervantes. It describes someone exceedingly idealistic, unrealistic, and impractical.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is quixotic, they have ideas or plans that are very ambitious but unrealistic.
Example: His quixotic plan to build a city in the desert was met with skepticism.
Funny Example: My cat’s quixotic ambition to catch her tail always ends in a dizzy tumble.
69. Recalcitrant – This adjective comes from Latin “recalcitrare,” meaning “to kick back.” It describes someone who is uncooperative toward authority or discipline.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is recalcitrant, they’re resistant to authority or refuse to obey rules and norms.
Example: The recalcitrant student was often in trouble for not following the school rules.
Funny Example: My recalcitrant dog believes that “sit” is merely a suggestion, not a command.
70. Sagacious – This adjective comes from Latin “sagax,” meaning “wise.” It describes someone who is wise or has good judgement.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is sagacious, they’re wise and show good judgment, often in practical affairs.
Example: The sagacious advisor suggested a strategy that quickly improved the company’s finances.
Funny Example: My dog gives me a sagacious look whenever I accidentally throw his ball into the thorny bush, as if to say, “Again, really?”
71. Taciturn – This adjective comes from Latin “tacitus,” meaning “silent.” It describes someone who is reserved or uncommunicative in speech; saying little.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is taciturn, they’re typically quiet and speak little, often by nature.
Example: The taciturn librarian seemed more at home among the quiet bookshelves than at loud parties.
Funny Example: My dog is surprisingly taciturn, often communicating his needs with just a meaningful look or a slight wag of his tail.
72. Unprecedented – This adjective comes from prefix “un-” (not) + “precedented” (having occurred or existed before). It describes an event or action that has not been experienced before.
Detailed Explanation: If something is unprecedented, it has never happened before or is completely new and remarkable in some way.
Example: The global response to the pandemic was unprecedented in modern times.
Funny Example: My cat’s unprecedented leap from the floor to the top of the fridge made me wonder if she was secretly a superhero.
73. Vex – This verb comes from Latin “vexare,” meaning “to shake, jolt, or annoy.” It means to make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters.
Detailed Explanation: To vex someone is to annoy or worry them, often with small or petty issues.
Example: He was vexed by the constant interruptions during his speech.
Funny Example: The laser pointer’s elusive red dot endlessly vexes my dog.
74. Whimsical – This adjective has an uncertain origin, potentially from “whim-wham” meaning “a whimsical object.” It describes playfully quaint or fanciful behavior or humor.
Detailed Explanation: If something is whimsical, it’s playful, fanciful, or unpredictable.
Example: The artist’s whimsical paintings were popular with children.
Funny Example: My cat’s whimsical approach to life includes chasing invisible bugs and declaring war on shoe laces.
75. Xenophobic – This adjective comes from Greek “xenos” (foreigner, stranger) and “phobos” (fear). It describes a person having or showing a dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is xenophobic, they have an unreasonable fear or dislike of people from other countries or of things that are foreign or strange.
Example: The politician’s xenophobic remarks sparked controversy.
Funny Example: My xenophobic goldfish hides behind a plant whenever I bring home a new aquarium decoration.
76. Yoke – This noun comes from Old English “geoc,” meaning “a wooden crosspiece fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to the plow or cart that they are to pull.” As a verb, to yoke is to couple or link two things together.
Detailed Explanation: To yoke something is to join or bond it tightly to something else. In a more metaphorical sense, it can mean burdening someone with a responsibility or task.
Example: The two oxen were yoked together to plow the field.
Funny Example: My kids were yoked together by the mutual responsibility of keeping their new pet hamster alive and well.
77. Zealous – This adjective comes from Greek “zēlos,” meaning “zeal.” It describes someone who is fervent or fanatical about something, typically in political or religious matters.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is zealous, they’re passionate and enthusiastic about something to the point of being fanatical.
Example: The zealous activist campaigned tirelessly for animal rights.
Funny Example: I’ve never met a dog as zealous about fetch as mine; he’d probably chase the ball right off a cliff if I threw it.
78. Abridge – This verb comes from Latin “abbreviare,” meaning “to shorten.” It describes the act of shortening a text without losing its sense.
Detailed Explanation: To abridge something is to reduce it in extent, duration, or size while maintaining its basic content.
Example: The editor abridged the novel into a short story without losing its essence.
Funny Example: If my cat could abridge her dramatic saga of not getting second breakfast, I’m sure it would still involve plenty of plaintive meowing.
79. Balk – This verb comes from Old Norse “bálkr,” meaning “a barrier.” It describes refusing to proceed or to do something specified.
Detailed Explanation: To balk at something is to hesitate or be unwilling to accept it because it is unpleasant, risky, or challenging.
Example: He balked at the idea of spending so much money on a single meal.
Funny Example: My dog balks at the idea of going out in the rain, as if he’s made of sugar and might melt.
80. Capricious – This adjective comes from Italian “capriccioso,” meaning “whimsical.” It describes a sudden and unaccountable change of mood or behavior.
Detailed Explanation: If someone or something is capricious, they’re unpredictable and tend to make sudden changes for no predictable reason.
Example: The capricious weather had us alternating between rain jackets and sunglasses all day.
Funny Example: My cat’s capricious moods mean one minute she’s demanding belly rubs, and the next, she’s a hissing ball of fury.
81. Disparage – This verb comes from Old French “desparagier,” meaning “to marry someone of unequal rank.” Today, it describes the act of regarding or representing as being of little worth.
Detailed Explanation: To disparage someone or something is to belittle them or reduce their value or importance.
Example: It is unprofessional to disparage your colleagues in a public forum.
Funny Example: My cat disparages the dog by glaring down at him from high perches and refusing to acknowledge his attempts at play.
82. Ephemeral – This adjective comes from Greek “ephēmeros,” meaning “lasting only one day.” It describes something that lasts for a very short time.
Detailed Explanation: If something is ephemeral, it doesn’t last long and is temporary.
Example: The beauty of the cherry blossoms is ephemeral, fading quickly after they bloom.
Funny Example: The cookie in front of my toddler was ephemeral, disappearing almost the instant I turned my back.
83. Fickle – This adjective comes from Old English “ficol,” meaning “deceitful, cunning.” It describes a person who changes frequently, especially as regards one’s loyalties or affections.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is fickle, they’re changeable, especially in their feelings, intentions, or preferences.
Example: The fickle fans switched their loyalty to the other team after the loss.
Funny Example: My dog is fickle with his toys, adoring one for a few days before completely ignoring it for a new favorite.
84. Garrulous – This adjective comes from Latin “garrulus,” meaning “talkative.” It describes a person who is excessively talkative, especially on trivial matters.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is garrulous, they talk a lot, often about things that aren’t particularly important.
Example: The garrulous man at the party could talk for hours about his stamp collection.
Funny Example: My parrot is garrulous to the point of annoyance, once carrying on a detailed conversation with a pot lid.
85. Harbinger – This noun comes from Old English “herebeorg,” meaning “shelter, lodgings.” Today, it describes something that announces or signals the approach of another.
Detailed Explanation: A harbinger is a person or thing that announces or signals the coming of another thing.
Example: The cool breeze was a harbinger of the approaching fall season.
Funny Example: My dog’s sudden interest in the front door is always a reliable harbinger of the mailman’s arrival.
86. Idiosyncrasy – This noun comes from Greek “idiosynkrasia,” meaning “a peculiar temperament.” It describes a mode of behavior or way of thought peculiar to an individual.
Detailed Explanation: An idiosyncrasy is a unique habit or characteristic that someone or something has.
Example: One of her idiosyncrasies is always arranging her books by color.
Funny Example: One idiosyncrasy of my cat is that she only drinks water by dipping her paw in the bowl and licking it.
87. Jovial – This adjective comes from Latin “Iovialis,” meaning “pertaining to Jupiter.” It describes a person who is cheerful and friendly.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is jovial, they’re happy, cheerful, and friendly.
Example: Despite the early hour, the farmer was jovial as he set up his market stall.
Funny Example: My dog’s jovial nature is infectious; he seems to believe that every stranger is just a friend he hasn’t licked yet.
88. Kleptomaniac – This noun comes from Greek “kleptein,” meaning “to steal,” and “mania,” meaning “madness.” It describes someone who is unable to refrain from the urge to steal items and does so for reasons other than personal use or financial gain.
Detailed Explanation: A kleptomaniac is a person who can’t help stealing things, even if they don’t need them. This is usually due to a psychological condition.
Example: The kleptomaniac was caught stealing worthless items from the store.
Funny Example: My pet crow must be a kleptomaniac; he keeps stealing shiny trinkets from the neighbors and hoarding them in the backyard.
89. Labyrinthine – This adjective comes from “labyrinth,” which is a complex structure in the inner ear. It describes something resembling a labyrinth; very complicated or intricate.
Detailed Explanation: If something is labyrinthine, it’s extremely complex and difficult to follow, like a maze.
Example: The labyrinthine plot of the novel left many readers feeling confused.
Funny Example: The way my toddler arranges his toy cars creates a labyrinthine maze that I inevitably trip over in the night.
90. Maverick – This noun comes from the name Samuel A. Maverick, an American cattleman who did not brand his calves. It describes an independent-minded person who does not conform to the usual standards.
Detailed Explanation: A maverick is someone who refuses to follow the rules, customs, or principles of a group, choosing to act independently.
Example: The maverick scientist pursued a line of research everyone else thought was futile.
Funny Example: My cat is a maverick, eschewing the expensive cat bed for the comfort of an old cardboard box.
91. Nostalgia – This noun comes from Greek “nostos” meaning “return home” and “algos” meaning “pain.” It describes a sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past.
Detailed Explanation: Nostalgia is a feeling of longing for the past or a fondness for traditions or old-fashioned things.
Example: Looking at childhood photos filled him with nostalgia.
Funny Example: Sometimes I feel a strange nostalgia for the days when I had to untangle the cord of my home phone.
92. Oblique – This adjective comes from Latin “obliquus” meaning “slanting, sideways.” It describes neither parallel nor at a right angle to a specified or implied line; slanting.
Detailed Explanation: If something is oblique, it’s at an angle or not straightforward or direct.
Example: The poet’s oblique references to his hometown were lost on most readers.
Funny Example: My cat has an oblique strategy for catching birds: she chatters at them from the window instead of going outside.
93. Pseudonym – This noun comes from Greek “pseudōnymon” meaning “false name.” It describes a fictitious name, especially one used by an author.
Detailed Explanation: A pseudonym is a fake name used by someone, often a writer, to hide their true identity.
Example: The author Samuel Clemens wrote under the pseudonym Mark Twain.
Funny Example: My dog has a pseudonym that he uses at the vet’s office: Sir Barksalot.
94. Quintessential – This adjective comes from “quintessence” which in medieval philosophy was the pure and concentrated essence of a substance. It describes the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
Detailed Explanation: If something is quintessential, it’s the most typical example or most pure “essence” of something.
Example: The artist’s work is quintessential modern art, breaking all traditional rules.
Funny Example: My cat is the quintessential feline, ignoring me until I’m busy, and then demanding all of my attention.
95. Reticent – This adjective comes from Latin “reticent-,” meaning “not revealing one’s thoughts or feelings readily.”
Detailed Explanation: If someone is reticent, they are unwilling to share information, especially about their feelings or thoughts.
Example: The suspect was reticent during the interrogation, refusing to make eye contact.
Funny Example: Despite my best efforts, my dog is reticent about his secret life when I’m away, giving me only an innocent look when I ask about the missing sandwich.
96. Sagacious – This adjective comes from Latin “sagax,” meaning “of keen sense, acute.” It describes showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; wise or shrewd.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is sagacious, they’re very wise, discerning, or shrewd.
Example: The sagacious leader made careful, informed decisions.
Funny Example: My cat made a sagacious choice when he decided to nap in the sunbeam instead of chasing his tail.
97. Tantamount – This adjective comes from the phrase “tant amunter,” meaning “amount to as much.” It describes equivalent in seriousness to; virtually the same as.
Detailed Explanation: If something is tantamount to something else, it is equivalent or nearly the same as it, especially in its effect or result.
Example: In our strict household, coming home past curfew was tantamount to a crime.
Funny Example: To my dieting friend, a bite of chocolate cake is tantamount to a week of gym workouts.
98. Ubiquitous – This adjective comes from Latin “ubique,” meaning “everywhere.” It describes present, appearing, or found everywhere.
Detailed Explanation: If something is ubiquitous, it seems to be present everywhere at the same time.
Example: The ubiquitous smartphones are in the hands of nearly everyone in the city.
Funny Example: Despite my best efforts to clean up, my dog’s fur seems to be ubiquitous around the house.
99. Voracious – This adjective comes from Latin “vorax,” meaning “greedy, insatiable.” It describes wanting or devouring great quantities of food, or having a very eager approach to an activity.
Detailed Explanation: If someone is voracious, they want a lot of something, often food, but it can also refer to other activities.
Example: She is a voracious reader and can finish a novel in a single day.
Funny Example: My hamster is a voracious eater, stuffing his cheeks with as many sunflower seeds as he can find.
100. Whet – This verb comes from Old English “hwettan,” meaning “to sharpen.” It describes sharpening or stimulating (someone’s desire, interest, or appetite).
Detailed Explanation: To whet something, like someone’s appetite or interest, is to sharpen it or make it stronger.
Example: The movie trailer whetted my appetite for the full film.
Funny Example: The smell of popcorn instantly whets my dog’s appetite, even if he’s just eaten his dinner.
Helpful resources for improving your GRE vocabulary:
Vocabulary.com: This interactive website offers a GRE Vocabulary list with a game-like system for learning words.
Link: https://www.vocabulary.com/lists/191545
Magoosh GRE Vocabulary Flashcards: This online flashcard system from Magoosh, a well-known test prep company, covers common GRE words.
Link: https://gre.magoosh.com/flashcards/vocabulary
Manhattan Prep 500 Essential Words: This GRE Flashcard set on Quizlet has several keywords you will want to know for the exam.
Kaplan GRE Vocabulary Quizlet: This is another comprehensive Quizlet flashcard set for GRE vocabulary, compiled from Kaplan’s GRE prep material.
Link: https://quizlet.com/subject/kaplan-gre-vocabulary/
ETS GRE Verbal Reasoning: The ETS (the makers of the GRE) provides a breakdown of the Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE, including the types of vocabulary you may need to know.
Link: https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/prepare/verbal_reasoning/
PowerScore Repeat Offenders GRE Word List: PowerScore compiled this list of words that frequently appear on the GRE.
Link: https://www.powerscore.com/gre/help/content/Repeat-Offenders-Vocabulary.pdf
Remember, the best way to remember these words is by using them. Try to incorporate these words into your everyday speech and writing. Happy studying!