8th Grade Vocabulary Context Clues | Baamboozle - Baamboozle

The two neighbors would often wrangle (wran-gle) over whose turn it was to rake the leaves in the alley. These long and complicated disputes usually ended with frustration. What is the meaning of the word wrangle?

To have a long and complicated dispute or argument

To agree

To walk away

To give a gift

The two neighboring kings decided to wage (wage) a war over the land that sat between them. They spent years carrying on this campaign, sending thousands of soldiers to battle. What is the meaning of the word wage?

To carry on a battle or campaign

To end a fight

To write a treaty

To hide

The voracious (vo-ra-cious) shark swam through the fish, eating everything it could catch in its jaws. Its appetite was so great that it didn't stop until it was full. What is the meaning of the word voracious?

Wanting or devouring great quantities of food

Not hungry

Picky

Slow

The candidate's opponents tried to vilify (vil-i-fy) him by spreading false rumors about his past. They hoped that speaking about him in an abusive way would keep him from winning. What is the meaning of the word vilify?

To speak or write about in an abusive manner

To praise

To ignore

To help a friend

The two tech companies will vie (vie) for the top spot in the market by releasing new products. They are both eager to compete and prove that their item is the best for everyone. What is the meaning of the word vie?

To compete eagerly with someone to achieve something

To work together

To give up

To hide

I don't like to eat broccoli and vice versa (vi-ce ver-sa), meaning that the vegetable probably doesn't like me either. This phrase shows the main items in a statement can work the other way. What is the meaning of the word vice versa?

With the main items in a statement the other way

The same thing

A formal greeting

A secret code

The newborn foal was ungainly (un-gain-ly) as it tried to stand up on its long, wobbly legs. Its awkward movements made it stumble several times before finding its balance. What is the meaning of the word ungainly?

Awkward or clumsy

Graceful

Strong

Very quiet

The ultimate (ul-ti-mate) goal of the science club was to win the state competition at the end of the year. They knew this final achievement would be the result of hard work. What is the meaning of the word ultimate?

Being or happening at the end of a process

The beginning

Unimportant

Very funny

The wealthy tycoon (ty-****) owned a fleet of private jets, several hotels, and a basketball team. His power and money in the business world made him very famous. What is the meaning of the word tycoon?

A wealthy, powerful person in business

A person with no money

A beginner

A secret agent

The flight was very turbulent (tur-bu-lent) as the plane flew through a series of dark storm clouds. The passengers felt the cabin shaking and jumping in the air. What is the meaning of the word turbulent?

Characterized by conflict or disorder

Smooth

Slow

Sunny

The young girl felt a sense of trepidation (trep-i-da-tion) as she walked toward the stage for her recital. Her feeling of fear and agitation made her hands shake as she played. What is the meaning of the word trepidation?

A feeling of fear or agitation

Great excitement

Boredom

Extreme hunger

The transition (tran-si-tion) from elementary school to middle school can be a big change for students. This process of changing from one state to another involves new rules. What is the meaning of the word transition?

The process of changing from one state to another

Staying the same

A fast race

A secret plan

The farmer bought a large tract (tract) of land to plant more corn and soybeans next spring. This area of land was the perfect place to build a new and larger farm. What is the meaning of the word tract?

An area of indefinite extent, typically a large one

A flower pot

A tractor

A secret map

The coach went on a long tirade (ti-rade) after the team lost the game due to several mistakes. His angry speech of criticism lasted for twenty minutes and was very loud. What is the meaning of the word tirade?

A long, angry speech of criticism

A happy song

A quiet conversation

A secret plan

The theme (theme) of the story was that honesty is always the best policy for everyone. This main idea was repeated throughout the book as the characters learned lessons. What is the meaning of the word theme?

An idea that recurs in a work of art or literature

The main character

A heavy book

A secret code

After the rain, the small pond began to teem (teem) with life, including tadpoles and water bugs. The water was full of swarming creatures moving in every direction. What is the meaning of the word teem?

To be full of or swarming with

To be empty

To be cold

To disappear

The hikers began to swelter (swel-ter) as the temperature rose to over one hundred degrees in the desert. They were uncomfortably hot and had to drink all of their water. What is the meaning of the word swelter?

To be uncomfortably hot

To feel very cold

To enjoy a cool breeze

To swim

Young children are more susceptible (sus-cep-ti-ble) to catching a cold during the winter months. They are more likely to be harmed by germs if they do not wash their hands. What is the meaning of the word susceptible?

Likely or liable to be influenced or harmed

Protected

Strong

Mean

The young athlete hopes to surpass (sur-pass) the world record for the race this summer. She has been training every day to exceed the current fastest time and win. What is the meaning of the word surpass?

To exceed or be greater than

To fall behind

To stay at the same level

To give up

After trying to resist the plate of cookies for an hour, he finally decided to succumb (suc-cumb). He failed to resist the temptation and enjoyed every single bite. What is the meaning of the word succumb?

To fail to resist pressure or temptation

To stay strong

To forget about food

To hide a secret

After the storm passed, the floodwaters began to subside (sub-side) and the streets finally cleared. The intense weather became less severe, and people returned to their homes. What is the meaning of the word subside?

To become less intense, violent, or severe

To grow larger

To stay the same

To move quickly

The view from the top of the mountain was sublime (sub-lime), with clouds floating below the peaks. The excellence and beauty of the scene inspired great admiration in the hikers. What is the meaning of the word sublime?

Of such excellence or beauty as to inspire admiration

Ugly

Common

Boring

The mechanic had a short stint (stint) working for the racing team before he opened his own shop. His fixed period of work only lasted for six months, but he learned a lot. What is the meaning of the word stint?

A person's fixed or allotted period of work

A long and boring life

A formal speech

A secret mission

Rice is a staple (sta-ple) food in many cultures, served with almost every meal of the day. This important and main element of their diet is something people buy every week. What is the meaning of the word staple?

A main or important element of something

A rare treat

Something never used

A secret ingredient

The politician took a firm stance (stance) against the new law, arguing it was unfair to small businesses. His position on the issue was clear to everyone who heard him. What is the meaning of the word stance?

An attitude or position on an issue

A heavy chair

A fast way to walk

A secret plan

Running a marathon requires a lot of stamina (stam-i-na), as the athletes must move for hours. The ability to sustain this physical effort is what separates the winners. What is the meaning of the word stamina?

The ability to sustain physical or mental effort

The ability to run fast

A healthy snack

A fast heart rate

The rain was sporadic (spo-rad-ic) throughout the day, with a few drops falling every now and then. Since the showers occurred at irregular intervals, the ground stayed mostly dry. What is the meaning of the word sporadic?

Occurring at irregular intervals

Constant

Happening every morning

Predictable

The crowd broke into spontaneous (spon-ta-ne-ous) applause when the performer finished his magic trick. The sudden impulse to cheer was shared by everyone in the audience. What is the meaning of the word spontaneous?

Occurring as a result of a sudden inner impulse

Planned

Boring

Accidental

The prisoner was placed in a heavy iron shackle (shack-le) to prevent him from escaping from the cell. The metal chain around his ankles made it impossible for him to run. What is the meaning of the word shackle?

A metal fastening for a prisoner's ankles

Fancy jewelry

A comfortable bed

A secret key

The king expected his servants to be servile (ser-vile), always bowing and following his every command. He wanted them to show an excessive willingness to please him at all times. What is the meaning of the word servile?

Having an excessive willingness to please

Independent

Stubborn

Angry

The lake was so serene (se-rene) in the morning that the water looked like a perfect mirror. The calm and peaceful atmosphere was only interrupted by the sound of a bird. What is the meaning of the word serene?

Calm, peaceful, and untroubled

Loud and chaotic

Dirty

Very cold

The doctor gave the patient a mild sedative (sed-a-tive) to help him relax and sleep before the surgery. The calming effect of the medicine helped him stay peaceful. What is the meaning of the word sedative?

A drug taken for its calming effect

An energy drink

A spicy food

A loud alarm

The village elder was a sage (sage) who was often consulted for his wisdom and experience. People traveled from far away just to hear his advice on how to solve problems. What is the meaning of the word sage?

A profoundly wise man

A young and foolish boy

A person who dislikes people

A fast runner

I am sure he will rue (rue) the day he decided to quit the team, as they are now going to the finals. He will bitterly regret his choice when he sees his friends winning. What is the meaning of the word rue?

To bitterly regret something one has done

To celebrate a victory

To forget a mistake

To move

After the old building was torn down, all that remained was a massive pile of brick and stone rubble (rub-ble). The workers spent weeks hauling away the broken fragments. What is the meaning of the word rubble?

Rough fragments of brick, stone, or concrete

A new house

A garden

A heavy machine

The company's revenue (rev-e-nue) increased by twenty percent after they started selling online. This income allowed them to hire more workers and build a new factory. What is the meaning of the word revenue?

Income, especially of a company or organization

The amount spent

A formal meeting

A secret bank account

The king decided to renounce (re-nounce) his throne so that he could live a quiet life in the country. By formally giving up his claim, he allowed his daughter to become queen. What is the meaning of the word renounce?

To formally declare abandonment of a claim

To fight for power

To hide

To keep a secret

The doctor warned that the symptoms might recur (re-cur) if the patient didn't finish all of his medicine. He explained that the illness could happen again without proper treatment. What is the meaning of the word recur?

To occur again, periodically, or repeatedly

To stop forever

To change

To move fast

Since the store refused to fix the broken computer, the customer's only recourse (re-course) was to call the manager. This source of help was her last chance to get a refund. What is the meaning of the word recourse?

A source of help in a difficult situation

A heavy box

A second chance

A secret plan

The new students received a warm reception (re-cep-tion) from the principal on their first day. This kind and welcoming greeting helped them feel less nervous about the school. What is the meaning of the word reception?

The action of admitting or welcoming someone

A wedding party

A cold look

A secret meeting

The teacher had to rebuke (re-buke) the student for his disrespectful behavior during the assembly. This sharp disapproval reminded the boy to follow the school's rules. What is the meaning of the word rebuke?

To express sharp disapproval or criticism

To give a high grade

To invite to a party

To give a reward

The scientist tried to find a rational (ra-tion-al) explanation for the strange lights in the sky. He looked for logical clues and evidence rather than believing in myths. What is the meaning of the word rational?

Based on or in accordance with reason or logic

Based on a dream

Loud

Boring

The unfair comment continued to rankle (ran-kle) in his mind, making him angry every time he thought about it. The resentment lasted for days after the argument. What is the meaning of the word rankle?

To cause annoyance or resentment that persists

To make someone happy

To forget a problem

To solve a mystery

The pungent (pun-gent) smell of onions filled the kitchen as soon as the chef started chopping. The sharp, strong odor was so powerful that it made our eyes water. What is the meaning of the word pungent?

Having a sharply strong taste or smell

Sweet

Having no smell

Soft

The famous author used a pseudonym (pseu-do-nym) so she could go to the store without being recognized. By using a fictitious name, she kept her private life a secret. What is the meaning of the word pseudonym?

A fictitious name, especially for an author

A middle name

A formal title

A secret code

The philosopher's words were so profound (pro-found) that they made everyone in the room stop and think. His intense insight into life was something the audience would never forget. What is the meaning of the word profound?

Having or showing great knowledge or insight

Shallow

Loud

Common

After years of practice, he became proficient (pro-fi-cient) at playing the piano and could join a band. His skill and competence allowed him to play difficult songs easily. What is the meaning of the word proficient?

Competent or skilled in doing something

Bad at a task

A beginner student

Uninterested

The young girl was a math prodigy (prod-i-gy), solving equations that even adults found difficult. Her exceptional talent at such a young age amazed all of her teachers. What is the meaning of the word prodigy?

A young person with exceptional qualities

A person who struggles to learn

An athlete

A beginner

A sponge is porous (po-rous), which is why it is so good at soaking up water from the floor. The tiny holes allow liquid to pass through and stay trapped inside. What is the meaning of the word porous?

Having minute spaces or holes for liquid

Solid

Heavy

Shiny

The pirates began to plunder (plun-der) the merchant ship, taking all the gold and spices. They used force to steal everything of value before sailing away. What is the meaning of the word plunder?

To steal goods from a place using force

To help repair a ship

To give gifts

To buy goods

The student's excuse for missing class seemed plausible (plau-si-ble), as there really was a snowstorm. Because his story was reasonable and likely true, the teacher was understanding. What is the meaning of the word plausible?

Seemingly reasonable or probable

Totally impossible

Funny

A complete lie

The invention of the internet was a pivotal (piv-ot-al) moment in human history. This crucial event changed the way people live and share information forever. What is the meaning of the word pivotal?

Of crucial importance in relation to development

Unimportant

Very funny

Boring

The coach's pithy (pith-y) advice at halftime was simple: 'Play hard, win big.' His brief but meaningful words were exactly what the players needed to hear. What is the meaning of the word pithy?

Brief and full of meaning

Long and boring

Confusing

Very loud

The brave pioneer (pi-o-neer) was the first person to build a home in the wild territory. He led the way for other families to follow and eventually build a town. What is the meaning of the word pioneer?

A person who is among the first to explore an area

A person who arrives last

A person who lives in a city

A person who hates nature

A rainbow is a natural phenomenon (phe-nom-e-non) that occurs when sunlight hits water droplets. This observable fact is something people enjoy seeing after a storm. What is the meaning of the word phenomenon?

A fact or situation that is observed to exist

A common event

A man-made invention

A science book

The two friends had a different perspective (per-spec-tive) on the movie; one thought it was funny, while the other thought it was sad. Their different points of view were interesting. What is the meaning of the word perspective?

A particular attitude or way of regarding something

A camera lens

A written report

A secret plan

From the top of the lighthouse, we could see a beautiful panorama (pan-o-ram-a) of the coastline. This unbroken view allowed us to see for miles in every direction. What is the meaning of the word panorama?

An unbroken view of the whole region

A very small window

A dark cave

A camera

As he watched his old dog struggle to walk, he felt a sharp pang (pang) of sadness in his chest. This sudden, painful emotion made him realize how much he missed his pet. What is the meaning of the word pang?

A sudden sharp pain or painful emotion

A feeling of joy

Boredom

A physical injury

The audience gave the singer a standing ovation (o-va-tion) after her final song. This enthusiastic and prolonged show of appreciation made the performer feel proud. What is the meaning of the word ovation?

A sustained and enthusiastic show of appreciation

An angry boo

A quiet exit

A formal dress

The palace was filled with ornate (or-nate) decorations, including gold statues and velvet curtains. Every room was covered in complex patterns that showed the king's wealth. What is the meaning of the word ornate?

Made in an intricate or complex pattern

Simple

Broken

Small

The city was not prepared for the onslaught (on-slaught) of snow that buried the streets in hours. This fierce and destructive attack of winter weather trapped people for days. What is the meaning of the word onslaught?

A fierce or destructive attack

A gentle breeze

A hot day

A celebration

The captain had to muster (mus-ter) all of his courage to lead his men into the dangerous battle. He called out to his crew to assemble so they could work together. What is the meaning of the word muster?

To collect or assemble

To lose or give up

To hide

To break a tool

The poet liked to sit by the river and muse (muse) about the meaning of life. He often spent hours in deep thought before he was ready to write a single line. What is the meaning of the word muse?

To be absorbed in thought

To talk loudly

To run a race

To forget a memory

The architect had to modify (mod-i-fy) the plans after the owners decided they wanted a larger kitchen. These minor changes were easy to make before construction began. What is the meaning of the word modify?

To make partial or minor changes to

To keep everything the same

To destroy a building

To build a city

The coach tried to minimize (min-i-mize) the importance of the loss by focusing on the next game. He wanted to reduce the players' disappointment so they would stay motivated. What is the meaning of the word minimize?

To reduce something to the smallest degree

To make something look bigger

To celebrate

To ignore a rule

Historians look back at the last millennium (mil-len-ni-um) to see how technology has changed in 1,000 years. They compare life in the year 1000 to life today. What is the meaning of the word millennium?

A period of a thousand years

A period of ten years

A short time

A calendar

The judge had a stern mien (mien) that made everyone in the courtroom stay quiet. His serious look and formal manner showed that he took his job very seriously. What is the meaning of the word mien?

A person's look or manner

A formal robe

A loud voice

A secret plan

The mercenary (mer-ce-nar-y) was willing to fight for any army that offered the most money. He was primarily concerned with his own profit rather than loyalty to a country. What is the meaning of the word mercenary?

A person concerned with making money

A person who works for free

A gardener

A person who hates money

The famous actress wrote a memoir (mem-oir) about her childhood in a small town. She included personal stories about her life before she became a star. What is the meaning of the word memoir?

A biography written from personal knowledge

A fictional story

A textbook

A secret letter

The professional athlete signed a lucrative (lu-cra-tive) contract that would pay him millions of dollars. This profitable deal meant he would never have to worry about money. What is the meaning of the word lucrative?

Producing a great deal of profit

Losing money

Difficult and tiring

Done for free

On hot summer afternoons, the teenagers like to loll (loll) around in the shade of the big oak tree. They enjoy being lazy and relaxed when it is too warm for sports. What is the meaning of the word loll?

To sit or lie in a lazy, relaxed way

To work hard

To run a race

To jump

The donor was very liberal (lib-er-al) with her money, giving millions to build a new wing for the hospital. Her generous contribution allowed the hospital to buy equipment. What is the meaning of the word liberal?

Given or occurring in generous amounts

Stingy

Poor

Mean

The story of King Arthur and his knights is legendary (leg-en-dar-y), having been told for hundreds of years. Most people have heard the tales of the sword in the stone. What is the meaning of the word legendary?

Remarkable enough to be famous

Completely forgotten

Boring and common

Unimportant

If you do not water the plants, they will begin to languish (lan-guish) and turn brown in the sun. Without proper care, they will grow weak and eventually die. What is the meaning of the word languish?

To grow weak or feeble

To grow strong

To change color quickly

To turn into a tree

The officer explained he couldn't write a ticket because it was outside of his jurisdiction (ju-ris-dic-tion). He only had the legal power to make arrests within the city. What is the meaning of the word jurisdiction?

The official power to make legal decisions

A fast car

A secret hideout

A formal apology

The irascible (i-ras-ci-ble) old man would yell at anyone who even stepped on his lawn. His tendency to get angry so easily made most people avoid his house. What is the meaning of the word irascible?

Having a tendency to be easily angered

Friendly

Quiet

Smart

The store manager spent the night taking an inventory (in-ven-to-ry) of the stock to see what was sold out. He needed a complete list of items before the big sale. What is the meaning of the word inventory?

A complete list of items or goods

A heavy box

A sale where things are free

A buyer

The inventive (in-ven-tive) student used old soda bottles to create a working model of a car. Her ability to think originally impressed all the judges at the science fair. What is the meaning of the word inventive?

Having the ability to create new things

Lacking ideas

Lazy

Quiet and shy

The lace tablecloth featured an intricate (in-tri-cate) design of tiny flowers woven into the fabric. The pattern was so complicated that it must have taken hours of work. What is the meaning of the word intricate?

Very complicated or detailed

Simple and plain

Strong and heavy

Broken and useless

The teacher had to intervene (in-ter-vene) when the two friends started arguing over a pencil. She stepped in to help them find a way to share so they could finish their work. What is the meaning of the word intervene?

To come between to prevent a result

To walk away

To start an argument

To hide

The school decided to institute (in-sti-tute) a new rule that requires all students to wear uniforms. They set this policy in motion to help create a more focused environment. What is the meaning of the word institute?

To set in motion or establish

To end a program

To ignore a problem

To break a law

Parents try to instill (in-still) good manners in their children by teaching them to say please and thank you. They hope to firmly establish these habits while they are young. What is the meaning of the word instill?

To gradually but firmly establish an idea

To take away hope

To forget a rule

To move quickly

Looking up at the night sky, it can feel like the universe is infinite (in-fi-nite), stretching on forever. It is hard to imagine a space that has no end in any direction. What is the meaning of the word infinite?

Limitless or endless in space

Small and limited

Ending soon

Colorful

The student was indifferent (in-dif-fer-ent) about which movie the class chose to watch. He didn't care one way or the other because he wasn't interested in films anyway. What is the meaning of the word indifferent?

Having no particular interest or sympathy

Excited and eager

Angry and upset

Careful

The constant loud music from upstairs began to incense (in-cense) the writer who was trying to work. She became so angry that she finally had to knock on the ceiling. What is the meaning of the word incense?

To make very angry

To make someone happy

To help someone sleep

To give a gift

The city will inaugurate (in-au-gu-rate) the new community center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This event marks the formal beginning of the center's service to the town. What is the meaning of the word inaugurate?

To begin or introduce a period or system

To close a business

To ignore rules

To break a promise

The animal shelter is known for its humane (hu-mane) treatment of stray dogs, providing them with warm beds and food. They believe in showing compassion to all living things. What is the meaning of the word humane?

Having or showing compassion

Cruel and mean-spirited

Expensive and fancy

Quick and efficient

The hawk began to hover (hov-er) high above the field, staying in one place in the air as it searched for mice. Its wings moved just enough to keep it steady. What is the meaning of the word hover?

To remain poised in one place in the air

To fly fast in a line

To crash into the ground

To hide behind a tree

The heavy snow was a major hindrance (hin-drance) to the morning commute, causing buses to run hours late. This obstruction made it nearly impossible to get to work on time. What is the meaning of the word hindrance?

A thing that provides resistance or delay

A helpful tool

A fast way to travel

A gift

The family traveled to Italy to explore their heritage (her-i-tage) and see where their ancestors were born. They wanted to learn the traditions passed down through generations. What is the meaning of the word heritage?

Traditions passed down from ancestors

A type of modern technology

A plan for a business

A secret

The public library was a haven (ha-ven) for students who wanted to escape the noise of the city. Inside the quiet building, they felt safe and could finally focus. What is the meaning of the word haven?

A place of safety or refuge

A dangerous area

A type of large boat

A secret hidden underground

After working double shifts at the hospital, the nurse looked haggard (hag-gard). Her exhausted appearance and pale face showed just how much the long hours had tired her. What is the meaning of the word haggard?

Looking exhausted and unwell

Energetic and full of life

Wealthy and successful

Brightly dressed

The gullible (gul-li-ble) boy believed his brother when he said that a family of trolls lived under the bridge. Because he was easily tricked, he was always falling for jokes. What is the meaning of the word gullible?

Easily persuaded to believe something

Smart and suspicious

Mean and unfriendly

Good at telling stories

In the middle of the night, he had to grope (grope) along the hallway wall to find the bathroom door. Since it was pitch black, he had to feel his way with his hands. What is the meaning of the word grope?

To feel about uncertainly with the hands

To see perfectly in the dark

To run very fast

To shout for help

The two wrestlers began to grapple (grap-ple) on the mat, each trying to use their strength to pin the other person down. It was a difficult struggle for both athletes. What is the meaning of the word grapple?

To engage in a close fight or struggle

To run away

To sit quietly

To talk in a soft voice

During the holidays, there is often a glut (glut) of toys in the stores, with every shelf overflowing. This excessive supply makes it hard for parents to choose just one gift. What is the meaning of the word glut?

An excessively abundant supply

A shortage or lack

A type of expensive jewelry

A secret

She stepped gingerly (gin-ger-ly) across the icy sidewalk, making sure to place each foot carefully. Her cautious movements showed how much she wanted to avoid a fall. What is the meaning of the word gingerly?

In a careful or cautious manner

Loudly and clumsily

Quickly and without looking

Aggressively

After weeks of being lost in the mountains with very little food, the hiker looked gaunt (gaunt). He was so thin and haggard that his friends barely recognized him. What is the meaning of the word gaunt?

Lean and haggard from hunger or age

Strong and muscular

Happy and healthy

Energetic

The teacher tried to foster (fos-ter) a love of science by letting the students perform exciting experiments. She wanted to encourage the development of their curiosity. What is the meaning of the word foster?

To encourage or promote development

To discourage someone

To forget about a goal

To work alone

The king decided to fortify (for-ti-fy) the castle by building higher walls and adding more guards. He wanted to strengthen the defenses so that the city would be safe from attack. What is the meaning of the word fortify?

To strengthen a place with defenses

To tear down a building

To make something weaker

To leave a city unprotected

The champion boxer was a formidable (for-mi-da-ble) opponent who had never lost a single match. His strength and skill inspired respect and a little bit of fear in his rivals. What is the meaning of the word formidable?

Inspiring fear or respect through power

Weak and easy to defeat

Small and unnoticed

Friendly and kind

If the team does not show up on time, they will have to forfeit (for-feit) the match and let the other team win. This means they will lose their right to play as a consequence. What is the meaning of the word forfeit?

To lose a right as a consequence

To gain a reward

To keep playing

To win a trophy

The dark clouds and the sudden drop in temperature gave the hikers a sense of foreboding (fore-bod-ing). They felt a strong sense that a dangerous storm was about to happen. What is the meaning of the word foreboding?

A feeling that something bad will happen

A sense of great joy

A feeling of boredom

A happy memory

The student became flustered (flus-tered) when he realized he had left his notes for the presentation at home. He looked agitated and confused as he tried to remember his speech. What is the meaning of the word flustered?

Agitated or confused

Calm and collected

Very happy

Bored and sleepy

The young artist had a flair (flair) for using bright colors to make her paintings stand out. This natural talent for design was something she had even when she was a little girl. What is the meaning of the word flair?

A natural aptitude or ability

A lack of talent

A bad habit

A type of paintbrush

The detective had to ferret (fer-ret) out the truth by searching through old files and asking many questions. It took persistent work, but she finally found the answer. What is the meaning of the word ferret?

To search tenaciously and find something

To hide a secret

To stop looking

To write a story

The small bird had to fend (fend) off the hungry squirrel that was trying to steal seeds from the feeder. By flapping its wings, the bird was able to defend itself and keep its food. What is the meaning of the word fend?

To ward off an attack or defend oneself

To invite someone in

To give up

To share a snack

The architect wondered if it was feasible (fea-si-ble) to build a bridge made entirely of recycled plastic. He had to consider if it was actually possible and practical to complete. What is the meaning of the word feasible?

Possible to do easily or conveniently

Totally impossible

Too expensive

Boring and uncreative

The fastidious (fas-tid-i-ous) cat spent over an hour grooming its fur until every hair was perfectly in place. This attention to detail meant that the cat always looked very clean. What is the meaning of the word fastidious?

Attentive to accuracy and detail

Lazy and messy

Loud and aggressive

Fast and energetic

It is a fallacy (fal-la-cy) to believe that you can become a professional athlete without ever practicing. This mistaken belief leads to disappointment when people realize how much work is needed. What is the meaning of the word fallacy?

A mistaken belief

A proven fact

A type of equipment

A shared secret

The new library software was designed to facilitate (fa-cil-i-tate) checking out books, making it much faster. The goal was to make the process easier so more people would use it. What is the meaning of the word facilitate?

To make an action or process easy

To make things difficult

To block a person

To forget a task

The pet store had several exotic (ex-ot-ic) birds with bright feathers that came from the rainforests. Because they originated in a foreign country, they looked very different from local birds. What is the meaning of the word exotic?

Originating in a distant foreign country

Common and local

Boring and plain

Scary and dangerous

The student's kind actions and hard work exemplify (ex-em-pli-fy) what it means to be a leader in our school. He is a perfect example of how one person can make a positive difference. What is the meaning of the word exemplify?

To be a typical example of

To be the opposite

To ignore the rules

To stay hidden

The marathon runner was in excruciating (ex-cru-ci-at-ing) pain as she crossed the finish line with a severely cramped leg. The intense suffering was visible on her face. What is the meaning of the word excruciating?

Intensely painful

Very happy and relaxed

Slightly ticklish

Boring and repetitive

The teacher read a short excerpt (ex-cerpt) from the novel to give the students an idea of the author's style. Even though it was only a few paragraphs, it made everyone want to read the book. What is the meaning of the word excerpt?

A short extract from a piece of writing

The entire book

A blank notebook

A formal letter

Over millions of years, animals evolve (e-volve) to better survive in their specific environments. These gradual changes help them find food more easily and stay safe from predators. What is the meaning of the word evolve?

To develop gradually from simple to complex

To stay exactly the same

To disappear suddenly

To grow large quickly

It was an eventful (e-vent-ful) day for the students; they had a surprise assembly, a field trip, and a pizza party. By the end of the day, everyone was exhausted from all the interesting things. What is the meaning of the word eventful?

Full of interesting or important events

Very boring and quiet

Sad and lonely

Quick and easy to finish

The Victorian era (er-a) was known for its formal social rules and elaborate styles of dress. People living during this distinct period of history followed traditions very different from today. What is the meaning of the word era?

A distinct period of history

A fast-paced race

A type of musical instrument

A small mistake

The invention of the steam engine marked a new epoch (ep-och) in human history, changing how people traveled forever. It was a period characterized by rapid growth and many new inventions. What is the meaning of the word epoch?

A period of time marked by notable events

A short moment

A type of mechanical tool

A secret plan

The mystery of how the cookies disappeared from the locked jar remained an enigma (e-nig-ma) to the whole family. No one could explain how they were gone when the lid was sealed. What is the meaning of the word enigma?

Something that is mysterious or puzzling

A very simple explanation

A well-known fact

A type of dessert

The chef decided to add fresh herbs to the soup to enhance (en-hance) the flavor of the vegetables. He knew that a little bit of basil would improve the quality and taste of the dish. What is the meaning of the word enhance?

To intensify or improve the quality of

To make something worse

To hide the ingredients

To shrink a portion

The student made every endeavor (en-deav-or) to finish the science project before the deadline, even staying up late. He knew his hard work and attempt would lead to a better grade. What is the meaning of the word endeavor?

An attempt to achieve a goal

A lazy attitude

A quick and easy task

A feeling of failure

As the city grew, the new houses began to encroach (en-croach) on the local wetlands where the birds lived. The construction was intruding on a territory that was once natural and open. What is the meaning of the word encroach?

To intrude on a person's territory

To protect the environment

To stay far away

To build a fence

The explorers were finally ready to embark (em-bark) on their journey across the ocean. They loaded their ships with supplies, knowing the trip would take many months. What is the meaning of the word embark?

To begin a journey or course of action

To finish a task

To stay at home and rest

To lose your way

The government decided to place an embargo (em-bar-go) on the neighboring country, refusing to trade any electronics until the conflict was resolved. This official ban meant no ships could leave. What is the meaning of the word embargo?

An official ban on trade

A celebration of business

A type of cargo ship

A secret agreement

Only the elite (e-lite) athletes were invited to train at the Olympic center. This select group represents the very best runners who have proven they are at the top of their sport. What is the meaning of the word elite?

A select group that is superior in ability

A group of beginners

Casual fans

People who dislike sports

The eccentric (ec-cen-tric) inventor wore a hat made of spoons and lived in a house shaped like a giant shoe. His strange and unconventional habits made him famous in the small town. What is the meaning of the word eccentric?

Unconventional and slightly strange

Very normal and ordinary

Mean and aggressive

Extremely shy

The leather boots were incredibly durable (du-ra-ble) and lasted through five years of hiking through mud and rocks. They were so strong that they never developed a single hole. What is the meaning of the word durable?

Able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage

Flimsy and easily broken

Very expensive and fancy

Bright and colorful

The reporters decided to dub (dub) the fast runner 'The Rocket' after he won his fifth race in a row. This nickname became more famous than his actual name. What is the meaning of the word dub?

To give an unofficial name or nickname to

To erase a name

To write a long book

To keep a secret

The group follows a strict doctrine (doc-trine) that has been taught to its members for over a hundred years. These shared beliefs are the foundation of their entire organization. What is the meaning of the word doctrine?

A belief or set of beliefs held by a group

A type of science experiment

A fictional story

A physical tool

The golden retriever has a friendly disposition (dis-po-si-tion), always wagging its tail at everyone it meets. This kind personality makes it a great family pet. What is the meaning of the word disposition?

A person's inherent qualities of mind or character

A type of physical injury

A formal written law

A secret plan

The police officer had to dispatch (dis-patch) a backup unit to the scene of the accident. He sent the extra help off immediately to make sure everyone was safe. What is the meaning of the word dispatch?

To send off to a destination for a purpose

To keep something hidden

To slow down a process

To read a long book

The disgruntled (dis-grun-tled) customer complained to the manager because her food was cold and the waiter was rude. She was very dissatisfied with her experience at the restaurant. What is the meaning of the word disgruntled?

Angry or dissatisfied

Very happy and satisfied

Tired and sleepy

Excited and full of energy

The wealthy man looked at the old, rusty car with disdain (dis-dain), acting as if it were beneath him to even touch it. He clearly felt the vehicle was unworthy of his respect. What is the meaning of the word disdain?

The feeling that something is unworthy of respect

Great admiration

Extreme happiness

A sense of curiosity

It was difficult to discern (dis-cern) the shape of the boat through the thick, gray fog on the lake. We had to squint to recognize the small light moving in the distance. What is the meaning of the word discern?

To perceive or recognize something

To ignore or overlook

To lose sight of

To move toward a sound

After the earthquake, the city was in dire (dire) need of fresh water and medical supplies. The situation was extremely serious and required help from the government right away. What is the meaning of the word dire?

Extremely serious or urgent

Very happy and exciting

Boring and ordinary

Quiet and peaceful

In that part of the state, people speak a dialect (di-a-lect) that uses different words for common items. This local form of language makes the region unique to those who live there. What is the meaning of the word dialect?

A particular form of a language

A foreign language no one speaks

A type of formal writing

A secret code

The heavy rain did not deter (de-ter) the runners from finishing the race. Even though they were cold and wet, the weather could not discourage them from reaching the finish line. What is the meaning of the word deter?

To discourage someone from doing something

To encourage someone to start

To help someone finish

To watch from the side

The abandoned town looked desolate (des-o-late), with empty streets and broken windows rattling in the wind. It was a bleak and lonely place where no one had lived for years. What is the meaning of the word desolate?

Deserted and in a state of bleak emptiness

Crowded and full of life

Bright and cheerful

Small and cozy

The judge ordered the neighbors to desist (de-sist) from playing their music so loudly at night. He told them they must cease their behavior or face a large fine. What is the meaning of the word desist?

To cease or abstain from doing something

To continue doing something

To start a new project

To invite more people

The general decided to deploy (de-ploy) the troops along the border to ensure the safety of the country. He moved the soldiers into position so they would be ready for action. What is the meaning of the word deploy?

To move troops into position for action

To send everyone home

To hide in a bunker

To quit a job

Many people deplore (de-plore) the use of violence to solve problems, believing that peaceful talk is always better. They express strong disapproval whenever they see people fighting. What is the meaning of the word deplore?

To feel or express strong disapproval of

To love and support something

To ignore a problem

To find something funny

The toy was returned to the store because it had a defect (de-fect) that kept the wheels from spinning. The manufacturer fixed the imperfection and sent out a new batch. What is the meaning of the word defect?

A shortcoming or imperfection

A perfect design

A very high price

A shiny decoration

The vandals were caught trying to deface (de-face) the side of the school building with spray paint. The janitor had to scrub the walls to fix the spoiled appearance of the bricks. What is the meaning of the word deface?

To spoil the surface or appearance of something

To clean and polish

To build a new wall

To take a photo

The king issued a formal decree (de-cree) stating that all citizens must pay a new tax to help build the stone bridge. This official order was read aloud in the town square. What is the meaning of the word decree?

An official order issued by a legal authority

A quiet suggestion

A type of party

A secret kept by the king

The spy had to decipher (de-ci-pher) the secret code in the message before the enemy could find out the plan. It took him hours to figure out the meaning of the scrambled letters. What is the meaning of the word decipher?

To convert a code into normal language

To write a secret message

To burn a piece of paper

To lose a letter

The months of hard work will culminate (cul-mi-nate) in a final performance this Friday. All the practice has led to this highest point of development for the play. What is the meaning of the word culminate?

To reach a climax or highest point

To stop suddenly at the start

To fail at a task

To ignore the result

The students began a crusade (cru-sade) to get more healthy options in the school vending machines. Their vigorous campaign eventually led to a change in the school rules. What is the meaning of the word crusade?

A vigorous campaign for change

A small and quiet hobby

A type of formal dance

A secret plan

It is crucial (cru-cial) that you remember your keys, or you will be locked out of the house. Having them with you is extremely important and necessary for getting inside. What is the meaning of the word crucial?

Extremely important or necessary

Optional and not needed

Very funny

Boring and ordinary

The artist used dark colors to convey (con-vey) a sense of sadness in his painting. He wanted to communicate that specific feeling to everyone who looked at his work. What is the meaning of the word convey?

To communicate or make an idea known

To hide a secret

To forget a detail

To move very slowly

Instead of using a conventional (con-ven-tion-al) oven, the campers cooked over an open fire. They stepped away from what is generally done and enjoyed the old-fashioned way. What is the meaning of the word conventional?

Based on what is generally done or believed

Very strange and unusual

Extremely expensive

Broken and not working

The baby's laughter was contagious (con-ta-gious), and soon the whole family was giggling too. The happy mood was likely to spread and affect everyone in the room. What is the meaning of the word contagious?

Likely to spread to and affect others

Quiet and easy to ignore

Making people feel sad

Very expensive

My grandfather is very conservative (con-ser-va-tive) and prefers traditional styles over new fashions. He is cautious about change and values the way things used to be. What is the meaning of the word conservative?

Holding to traditional values

Eager to try new inventions

Loud and aggressive

Poor and struggling

She was a conscientious (con-scien-tious) worker who always double-checked her reports for mistakes. Her desire to do her duty well and thoroughly made her a great employee. What is the meaning of the word conscientious?

Wishing to do one's work well and thoroughly

Lazy and careless

Always late

Loud and distracting

As a connoisseur (con-nois-sieur) of fine chocolate, Julian only buys the best bars from Switzerland. He is an expert judge when it comes to the taste of high-quality sweets. What is the meaning of the word connoisseur?

An expert judge in matters of taste

A person who hates candy

A beginner cook

A person who sells groceries

The principal had to confiscate (con-fis-cate) the phone because the student was using it during a test. He took the property with authority and kept it in the office. What is the meaning of the word confiscate?

To take property with authority

To give a gift

To find something lost

To buy something

The inventor came up with a brilliant concept (con-cept) for a flying car, but it took years to build. The abstract idea was the first step toward his final invention. What is the meaning of the word concept?

An abstract idea or general notion

A heavy metal tool

A finished product

A type of engine

The engine would not start because one tiny component (com-po-nent) was cracked. Even though it was a small part, the whole machine could not work without it. What is the meaning of the word component?

A part or element of a larger whole

The entire machine

A type of fuel

A person who fixes things

The town built a statue to commemorate (com-mem-o-rate) the hero who saved the library. They wanted to show respect and recall his brave actions every year. What is the meaning of the word commemorate?

To recall and show respect for someone

To forget about the past

To tear down a building

To write a mean letter

The coach used a whiteboard to clarify (clar-i-fy) the play so everyone knew where to run. He wanted to make the situation less confused for the team. What is the meaning of the word clarify?

To make a statement less confused

To make things more confusing

To hide the truth

To end a game early

The hikers were clad (clad) in heavy wool coats and boots to stay warm in the snow. They were fully dressed for the freezing weather before they left the cabin. What is the meaning of the word clad?

Clothed or dressed

Feeling very cold

Walking very quickly

Lost in the woods

The student was careful to cite (cite) her sources at the end of her paper to give credit to the authors. She made sure to quote the evidence she used for her argument. What is the meaning of the word cite?

To quote as evidence for an argument

To forget to write a name

To make up a fake story

To draw a picture

The ancient citadel (cit-a-del) sat high on the hill, serving as a fortress to protect the city. Its thick stone walls were designed to keep the inhabitants safe from attack. What is the meaning of the word citadel?

A fortress that commands a city

A small wooden shack

A deep underground tunnel

A type of floating boat

The teacher had to chastise (chas-tise) the students for talking loudly during the fire drill. She reprimanded them severely to make sure they followed the safety rules. What is the meaning of the word chastise?

To rebuke or reprimand severely

To praise and give a reward

To teach a new game

To ignore bad behavior

The funny caption (cap-tion) under the photo of the grumpy cat made the whole class laugh. The brief explanation perfectly matched the cat's annoyed expression. What is the meaning of the word caption?

A title or brief explanation for an illustration

A long and boring novel

A type of camera lens

A secret message

The squirrels hid a cache (cache) of acorns inside a hollow log to prepare for winter. They needed a hidden storage place to keep their food safe from other animals. What is the meaning of the word cache?

A hidden storage place

A type of winter bird

A loud forest fire

A tool for digging

The yard sale was a bonanza (bo-nan-za) for the collector, who found rare coins for only a few dollars. It was a sudden increase in luck that made him very happy. What is the meaning of the word bonanza?

A sudden increase in luck or wealth

A very sad event

A waste of time

A type of heavy storm

After traveling to forty countries, the explorer was blasé (bla-sé) about seeing another famous landmark. He was unimpressed because he had experienced such things so often before. What is the meaning of the word blasé?

Unimpressed due to over-experience

Extremely excited

Very confused

Angry and upset

It was a bizarre (bi-zarre) sight to see a man walking a pet lobster on a leash through the park. The unusual scene made everyone stop and stare in confusion. What is the meaning of the word bizarre?

Very strange or unusual

Common and ordinary

Scary and mean

Beautiful and elegant

The doctor told the patient the tumor was benign (be-nign) and would not cause any harm. It was a relief to know the growth was not dangerous or life-threatening. What is the meaning of the word benign?

Gentle and not harmful

Very dangerous

Extremely painful

Bright and colorful

In the old days, a farmer might barter (bar-ter) a crate of eggs for a sack of flour. This allowed people to exchange goods without using any actual money. What is the meaning of the word barter?

To exchange goods or services

To buy something with a credit card

To steal from a shop

To give something away for free

The two best friends enjoyed lighthearted banter (ban-ter) during lunch, teasing each other about their favorite teams. This playful exchange of remarks always kept them laughing. What is the meaning of the word banter?

The playful exchange of teasing remarks

A serious and angry argument

A type of formal speech

A quiet secret

The balmy (bal-my) breeze blowing off the ocean made it the perfect afternoon to sit on the porch. The weather was pleasantly warm and mild, with no chill in the air at all. What is the meaning of the word balmy?

Pleasantly warm and mild

Freezing cold and icy

Extremely hot

Very windy and stormy

The surprise party went awry (a-wry) when the birthday girl walked in while everyone was still blowing up the balloons. The plan went away from the expected course and the surprise was ruined. What is the meaning of the word awry?

Away from the appropriate or planned course

Exactly as it was supposed to happen

Very exciting and fun

Quiet and peaceful

An avid (a-vid) reader, Leo finished three thick novels in a single weekend. His keen interest and enthusiasm for books mean he is always carrying something to read. What is the meaning of the word avid?

Having a keen interest or enthusiasm

Disliking books and reading

Reading very slowly

Feeling bored by stories

The hikers tried to find a shortcut, but it did not avail (a-vail) them; they ended up right back where they started. Their efforts were of no use and did not help them reach their goal. What is the meaning of the word avail?

To be of use or benefit to

To make a mistake

To move very quickly

To find a hidden treasure

The library decided to augment (aug-ment) its collection by adding five hundred new books and three new computers. This addition helped the library provide even more resources to the community. What is the meaning of the word augment?

To make something greater by adding to it

To shrink or reduce in size

To throw away old items

To keep everything the same

The doctor was quick to attribute (at-tri-bute) the patient's fast recovery to his healthy diet and daily exercise. She believed these good habits were the direct cause of his improvement. What is the meaning of the word attribute?

To regard as being caused by something

To ignore the reason for something

To complain about a situation

To fail at a goal

The history book described the burning of the ancient library as an atrocity (a-troc-i-ty). It was an extremely wicked act because so much human knowledge was destroyed forever. What is the meaning of the word atrocity?

An extremely wicked or cruel act

A beautiful celebration

A minor mistake

A traditional dance

The knights began to assail (as-sail) the castle walls with heavy stones and battering rams. They planned to attack the fortress violently until the doors finally gave way. What is the meaning of the word assail?

To attack violently

To build or repair

To walk away from

To offer help

The student was able to articulate (ar-tic-u-late) her ideas so clearly that the entire class understood the complex project. She spoke effectively and made sure her message was easy to follow. What is the meaning of the word articulate?

To speak or express oneself clearly

To mumble or speak quietly

To forget what one was saying

To draw a beautiful picture

The ardent (ar-dent) fan waited in the rain for six hours just to get a glimpse of her favorite singer. Her enthusiastic and passionate support was clear to everyone in the crowd. What is the meaning of the word ardent?

Very enthusiastic or passionate

Bored and uninterested

Angry and complaining

Very quiet and shy

The police were finally able to apprehend (ap-pre-hend) the suspect after a long chase through the city streets. They were relieved to finally catch the person responsible for the crime. What is the meaning of the word apprehend?

To catch or arrest someone

To let someone go free

To lose something valuable

To teach someone a lesson

The puppy's playful antics (an-tics), like chasing his own tail and tripping over his ears, kept the family laughing all afternoon. Everyone enjoyed his silly and predictable behavior. What is the meaning of the word antics?

Playful or silly behavior

Mean and aggressive actions

Serious and quiet study

A type of formal dance

When the power went out and the traffic lights stopped working, the intersection turned into total anarchy (an-ar-chy). Without any authority or rules, cars were driving in every direction at once. What is the meaning of the word anarchy?

A state of disorder or lack of authority

A perfectly organized system

A very quiet and peaceful place

A type of school project

The science teacher used an analogy (*****-o-gy), comparing the human heart to a pump that moves water through a house. This comparison helped the students understand how the heart works. What is the meaning of the word analogy?

A comparison between two things for explanation

A difficult math problem

A type of medical tool

A long and boring story

When the detective walked into the room, he immediately noticed something was amiss (a-miss) because the safe was wide open. It was clear that something was out of place or not quite right. What is the meaning of the word amiss?

Not quite right or out of place

Perfectly organized

Very expensive

Quiet and peaceful

During the party, the cat remained aloof (a-loof), sitting high on the bookshelf and watching the guests from a distance. He preferred to stay distant and cool rather than being petted by strangers. What is the meaning of the word aloof?

Distant or cool toward others

Friendly and eager to play

Hungry and looking for food

Very noisy and loud

The teacher decided to allot (al-lot) twenty minutes for the quiz to ensure everyone had enough time to finish. She carefully assigned a portion of the class period to each task on the agenda. What is the meaning of the word allot?

To assign or distribute a portion of something

To take away or steal

To forget about a task

To work on something forever

The agile (ag-ile) gymnast flipped across the narrow beam with such grace that she never even wobbled. Her ability to move quickly and easily earned her a perfect score from the judges. What is the meaning of the word agile?

Able to move quickly and easily

Heavy and slow-moving

Very loud and distracting

Feeling tired and sleepy

He is so adept (a-dept) at fixing computers that he can solve most technical problems in under five minutes. His friends always come to him for help because he is so skilled and proficient. What is the meaning of the word adept?

Very skilled or proficient at something

Extremely confused by technology

Slow and clumsy

A person who is still learning

The two countries finally reached an accord (ac-cord), signing a treaty that ended the long border dispute. Both sides were relieved to finally have a formal agreement after years of fighting. What is the meaning of the word accord?

A formal agreement or treaty

A loud and angry argument

A type of musical instrument

A confusing set of instructions