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8th Grade Vocabulary Context Clues

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  • 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 forget about a goal
    To encourage or promote development
    To discourage someone
    To work alone
  • 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 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 praise and give a reward
    To ignore bad behavior
    To rebuke or reprimand severely
    To teach a new game
  • 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?
    Predictable
    Occurring at irregular intervals
    Constant
    Happening every morning
  • 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
    A sense of curiosity
    Extreme happiness
  • 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?
    Mean and unfriendly
    Good at telling stories
    Easily persuaded to believe something
    Smart and suspicious
  • 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 stay far away
    To protect the environment
    To build a fence
    To intrude on a person's territory
  • 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
    Smart
    Friendly
    Quiet
  • 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?
    Boring
    Of crucial importance in relation to development
    Unimportant
    Very funny
  • 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 celebration
    A hot day
  • 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?
    A heavy book
    A secret code
    The main character
    An idea that recurs in a work of art or literature
  • 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 secret agreement
    A celebration of business
    A type of cargo ship
  • 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?
    Very confused
    Angry and upset
    Extremely excited
    Unimpressed due to over-experience
  • 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 let someone go free
    To teach someone a lesson
    To lose something valuable
    To catch or arrest someone
  • 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?
    Mean
    Strong
    Protected
    Likely or liable to be influenced or harmed
  • 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?
    A secret meeting
    A cold look
    The action of admitting or welcoming someone
    A wedding party
  • 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 camera lens
    A secret plan
    A written report
    A particular attitude or way of regarding something
  • 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 give a gift
    To help someone sleep
    To make very angry
    To make someone happy
  • 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?
    A type of modern technology
    A secret
    A plan for a business
    Traditions passed down from ancestors
  • 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 bad habit
    A lack of talent
    A type of paintbrush
  • 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 science book
    A man-made invention
    A fact or situation that is observed to exist
    A common event
  • 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 run a race
    To jump
    To work hard
  • 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 sit quietly
    To talk in a soft voice
    To run away
  • 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 gift
    A helpful tool
    A thing that provides resistance or delay
    A fast way to travel
  • 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 stop suddenly at the start
    To ignore the result
    To fail at a task
    To reach a climax or highest point
  • 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 take a photo
    To clean and polish
    To build a new wall
  • 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 type of formal writing
    A particular form of a language
    A secret code
    A foreign language no one speaks
  • 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 formal dress
    An angry boo
    A quiet exit
    A sustained and enthusiastic show of appreciation
  • 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 fast runner
    A profoundly wise man
    A young and foolish boy
    A person who dislikes people
  • 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 the opposite
    To ignore the rules
    To be a typical example of
    To stay hidden
  • 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 perfect design
    A shiny decoration
    A very high price
    A shortcoming or imperfection
  • 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?
    A type of party
    A secret kept by the king
    A quiet suggestion
    An official order issued by a legal authority
  • 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?
    Feeling bored by stories
    Reading very slowly
    Disliking books and reading
    Having a keen interest or enthusiasm
  • 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?
    A quick and easy task
    An attempt to achieve a goal
    A lazy attitude
    A feeling of failure
  • 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 keep something hidden
    To send off to a destination for a purpose
    To read a long book
    To slow down a process
  • 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 person who struggles to learn
    A young person with exceptional qualities
    A beginner
    An athlete
  • 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 give up
    To stay at the same level
    To fall behind
    To exceed or be greater than
  • 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 loud voice
    A formal robe
    A secret plan
  • 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 draw a picture
    To forget to write a name
    To make up a fake story
  • 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?
    Boring and ordinary
    Quiet and peaceful
    Very happy and exciting
    Extremely serious or urgent
  • 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?
    Very quiet
    Graceful
    Awkward or clumsy
    Strong
  • 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 solve a mystery
    To make someone happy
    To forget a problem
    To cause annoyance or resentment that persists
  • 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 write a mean letter
    To tear down a building
    To forget about the past
  • 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 close a business
    To begin or introduce a period or system
    To break a promise
    To ignore rules
  • 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
    Casual fans
    People who dislike sports
    A group of beginners
  • 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 deep underground tunnel
    A type of floating boat
    A small wooden shack
    A fortress that commands a city
  • 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?
    Mean
    Given or occurring in generous amounts
    Poor
    Stingy
  • 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 grow larger
    To become less intense, violent, or severe
    To stay the same
    To move quickly
  • 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 hates nature
    A person who is among the first to explore an area
    A person who arrives last
    A person who lives in a city
  • 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 type of formal dance
    A vigorous campaign for change
    A small and quiet hobby
    A secret plan
  • 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 move
    To bitterly regret something one has done
    To forget a mistake
    To celebrate a victory
  • 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 hide the truth
    To make a statement less confused
    To make things more confusing
    To end a game early
  • 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 type of medical tool
    A long and boring story
    A difficult math problem
    A comparison between two things for explanation
  • 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 type of school project
    A very quiet and peaceful place
    A state of disorder or lack of authority
    A perfectly organized system
  • 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 secret map
    A flower pot
    A tractor
  • 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 quiet conversation
    A happy song
    A secret plan
    A long, angry speech of criticism
  • 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?
    Quiet and peaceful
    Exactly as it was supposed to happen
    Away from the appropriate or planned course
    Very exciting and fun
  • 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?
    Common and ordinary
    Very strange or unusual
    Beautiful and elegant
    Scary and mean
  • 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?
    Very cold
    Dirty
    Calm, peaceful, and untroubled
    Loud and chaotic
  • 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 work on something forever
    To take away or steal
    To assign or distribute a portion of something
    To forget about a task
  • 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?
    Sad and lonely
    Very boring and quiet
    Full of interesting or important events
    Quick and easy to finish
  • 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?
    Bright and cheerful
    Crowded and full of life
    Deserted and in a state of bleak emptiness
    Small and cozy
  • 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 block a person
    To forget a task
    To make an action or process easy
    To make things difficult
  • 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 person who fixes things
    The entire machine
    A part or element of a larger whole
    A type of fuel
  • 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?
    Quiet and shy
    Having the ability to create new things
    Lacking ideas
    Lazy
  • 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 help a friend
    To ignore
  • 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 work together
    To hide
    To compete eagerly with someone to achieve something
    To give up
  • 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
  • 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?
    Scary and dangerous
    Originating in a distant foreign country
    Common and local
    Boring and plain
  • 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?
    Extremely shy
    Mean and aggressive
    Very normal and ordinary
    Unconventional and slightly strange
  • 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?
    A complete lie
    Seemingly reasonable or probable
    Totally impossible
    Funny
  • 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?
    Very expensive
    Not quite right or out of place
    Perfectly organized
    Quiet and peaceful
  • 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?
    Happy and healthy
    Lean and haggard from hunger or age
    Strong and muscular
    Energetic
  • 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
  • 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 feeling of joy
    A sudden sharp pain or painful emotion
    Boredom
    A physical injury
  • 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?
    Optional and not needed
    Extremely important or necessary
    Very funny
    Boring and ordinary
  • 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 hide
    To start an argument
    To walk away
  • 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?
    Feeling very cold
    Lost in the woods
    Clothed or dressed
    Walking very 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
    Colorful
    Ending soon
    Small and limited
  • 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 write a treaty
    To end a fight
    To hide
  • 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
  • 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 find something funny
    To love and support something
    To ignore a problem
    To feel or express strong disapproval of
  • 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 crash into the ground
    To fly fast in a line
    To remain poised in one place in the air
    To hide behind a tree
  • 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 formal letter
    The entire book
    A blank notebook
    A short extract from a piece of writing
  • 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 dangerous area
    A type of large boat
    A place of safety or refuge
    A secret hidden underground
  • 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
    Accidental
    Boring
  • 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 very sad event
    A type of heavy storm
    A waste of time
    A sudden increase in luck or wealth
  • 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 dark cave
    A camera
    A very small window
  • 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?
    Very funny
    The beginning
    Unimportant
    Being or happening at the end of a process
  • 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?
    Small and unnoticed
    Friendly and kind
    Inspiring fear or respect through power
    Weak and easy to defeat
  • 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?
    Small
    Made in an intricate or complex pattern
    Simple
    Broken
  • 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 see perfectly in the dark
    To shout for help
    To feel about uncertainly with the hands
    To run very fast
  • 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?
    Very strange and unusual
    Broken and not working
    Extremely expensive
    Based on what is generally done or believed
  • 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?
    Solid
    Heavy
    Having minute spaces or holes for liquid
    Shiny
  • 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 secret ingredient
    A main or important element of something
    Something never used
    A rare treat
  • 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
    Boring and repetitive
    Very happy and relaxed
    Slightly ticklish
  • 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 formal written law
    A type of physical injury
    A secret plan
    A person's inherent qualities of mind or character
  • 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 celebrate
    To reduce something to the smallest degree
    To make something look bigger
    To ignore a rule
  • 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
    Loud and aggressive
    Poor and struggling
    Eager to try new inventions
  • 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 secret plan
    A fast way to walk
  • 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?
    Boring
    Loud
    Based on or in accordance with reason or logic
    Based on a dream
  • 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?
    A fast race
    A secret plan
    Staying the same
    The process of changing from one state to another
  • 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 find a hidden treasure
    To be of use or benefit to
    To make a mistake
    To move very quickly
  • 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?
    Shallow
    Loud
    Common
    Having or showing great knowledge or insight
  • 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
    Having no smell
    Sweet
    Soft
  • 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 run a race
    To talk loudly
    To forget a memory
  • 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 move very slowly
    To forget a detail
  • 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 complain about a situation
    To fail at a goal
    To ignore the reason for something
    To regard as being caused by something
  • 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 hide in a bunker
    To move troops into position for action
    To send everyone home
    To quit a job
  • 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 type of equipment
    A proven fact
    A shared secret
  • 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 type of musical instrument
    A distinct period of history
    A fast-paced race
    A small mistake
  • 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?
    Mean and aggressive actions
    Serious and quiet study
    A type of formal dance
    Playful or silly 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 long and boring novel
    A secret message
    A title or brief explanation for an illustration
    A type of camera lens
  • 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
    Making people feel sad
    Quiet and easy to ignore
    Very expensive
  • 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 invite more people
    To start a new project
    To cease or abstain from doing something
    To continue doing something
  • 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 build a city
    To make partial or minor changes to
    To destroy a building
    To keep everything the same
  • 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 buyer
    A sale where things are free
    A heavy box
    A complete list of items or goods
  • 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 confusing set of instructions
    A loud and angry argument
    A formal agreement or treaty
    A type of musical instrument
  • 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 calendar
    A period of ten years
    A short time
  • 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
    Uninterested
    Bad at a task
    A beginner student
  • 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 second chance
    A heavy box
    A secret plan
  • 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 textbook
    A fictional story
    A biography written from personal knowledge
    A secret letter
  • 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 quiet and shy
    Very enthusiastic or passionate
    Bored and uninterested
    Angry and complaining
  • 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 lose your way
    To stay at home and rest
    To finish a task
  • 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?
    Smooth
    Characterized by conflict or disorder
    Slow
    Sunny
  • 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?
    Lazy and careless
    Always late
    Wishing to do one's work well and thoroughly
    Loud and distracting
  • 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 traditional dance
    A beautiful celebration
    A minor mistake
  • 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 keep a secret
    To erase a name
    To write a long book
    To give an unofficial name or nickname to
  • 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 person with no money
    A wealthy, powerful person in business
    A secret agent
    A beginner
  • 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 cold
    To be full of or swarming with
    To disappear
    To be empty
  • 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?
    Totally impossible
    Possible to do easily or conveniently
    Too expensive
    Boring and uncreative
  • 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?
    Slow
    Picky
    Not hungry
    Wanting or devouring great quantities of food
  • 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?
    Brightly dressed
    Wealthy and successful
    Looking exhausted and unwell
    Energetic and full of life
  • 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
    Quick and efficient
    Expensive and fancy
    Cruel and mean-spirited
  • 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
  • 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?
    A fast heart rate
    The ability to sustain physical or mental effort
    The ability to run fast
    A healthy snack
  • 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?
    Completely forgotten
    Remarkable enough to be famous
    Boring and common
    Unimportant
  • 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 help repair a ship
    To buy goods
    To give gifts
    To steal goods from a place using force
  • 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?
    Fancy jewelry
    A comfortable bed
    A secret key
    A metal fastening for a prisoner's ankles
  • 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
    Angry and upset
    Excited and eager
    Careful
  • 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?
    Stubborn
    Independent
    Having an excessive willingness to please
    Angry
  • 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 move toward a sound
    To perceive or recognize something
    To ignore or overlook
    To lose sight of
  • 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 hide
    To fight for power
    To keep a secret
    To formally declare abandonment of a claim
  • 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 break a law
    To ignore a problem
    To set in motion or establish
    To end a program
  • 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
    Boring
    Common
  • 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?
    Extremely confused by technology
    A person who is still learning
    Slow and clumsy
    Very skilled or proficient at something
  • 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 turn into a tree
    To grow strong
    To change color quickly
  • 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 feel very cold
    To swim
    To be uncomfortably hot
    To enjoy a cool breeze
  • 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 move quickly
    To take away hope
    To gradually but firmly establish an idea
    To forget a rule
  • 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 share a snack
    To give up
    To invite someone in
  • 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?
    Done for free
    Producing a great deal of profit
    Losing money
    Difficult and tiring
  • 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 gain a reward
    To keep playing
    To win a trophy
    To lose a right as a consequence
  • 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?
    The same thing
    A secret code
    A formal greeting
    With the main items in a statement the other way
  • 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 help someone finish
    To encourage someone to start
    To watch from the side
  • 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 physical tool
    A type of science experiment
    A fictional story
    A belief or set of beliefs held by a group
  • 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 who works for free
    A person who hates money
    A gardener
    A person concerned with making money
  • 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?
    Very happy
    Bored and sleepy
    Calm and collected
    Agitated or confused
  • 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?
    Very dangerous
    Gentle and not harmful
    Bright and colorful
    Extremely painful
  • 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 secret mission
    A long and boring life
    A formal speech
  • 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 secret code
    A middle name
    A formal title
    A fictitious name, especially for an author
  • 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 throw away old items
    To make something greater by adding to it
    To keep everything the same
    To shrink or reduce in size
  • 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?
    Tired and sleepy
    Angry or dissatisfied
    Very happy and satisfied
    Excited and full of energy
  • 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?
    Boredom
    A feeling of fear or agitation
    Great excitement
    Extreme hunger
  • 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 feeling of boredom
    A happy memory
    A sense of great joy
  • 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 short moment
    A secret plan
    A period of time marked by notable events
    A type of mechanical tool
  • 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?
    Hungry and looking for food
    Very noisy and loud
    Distant or cool toward others
    Friendly and eager to play
  • 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 leave a city unprotected
    To make something weaker
    To tear down a building
    To strengthen a place with defenses
  • 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
    Bright and colorful
    Flimsy and easily broken
    Very expensive and fancy
  • 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 grow large quickly
    To develop gradually from simple to complex
    To stay exactly the same
    To disappear suddenly
  • 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?
    Loud and aggressive
    Attentive to accuracy and detail
    Lazy and messy
    Fast and energetic
  • 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 write a story
    To hide a secret
    To stop looking
    To search tenaciously and find something
  • 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 make something worse
    To intensify or improve the quality of
    To shrink a portion
    To hide the ingredients
  • 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?
    Quickly and without looking
    Aggressively
    In a careful or cautious manner
    Loudly and clumsily
  • 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 walk away from
    To build or repair
    To offer help
    To attack violently
  • 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?
    A very simple explanation
    A type of dessert
    A well-known fact
    Something that is mysterious or puzzling
  • 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?
    Feeling tired and sleepy
    Heavy and slow-moving
    Able to move quickly and easily
    Very loud and distracting
  • 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 lose a letter
    To write a secret message
    To burn a piece of paper
  • 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?
    A person who hates candy
    A beginner cook
    An expert judge in matters of taste
    A person who sells groceries
  • 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?
    A secret bank account
    A formal meeting
    The amount spent
    Income, especially of a company or organization
  • 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 change
    To move fast
    To occur again, periodically, or repeatedly
    To stop forever
  • 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 reward
    To invite to a party
    To give a high grade
  • 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 hide
    To collect or assemble
    To break a tool
    To lose or give up
  • 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 steal from a shop
    To exchange goods or services
    To give something away for free
    To buy something with a credit card
  • 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 walk away
    To give a gift
    To have a long and complicated dispute or argument
    To agree
  • 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 spicy food
    A drug taken for its calming effect
    A loud alarm
    An energy drink
  • 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?
    Long and boring
    Brief and full of meaning
    Very loud
    Confusing
  • 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 draw a beautiful picture
    To speak or express oneself clearly
    To mumble or speak quietly
    To forget what one was saying
  • 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 type of formal speech
    A quiet secret
    A serious and angry argument
  • 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?
    Freezing cold and icy
    Pleasantly warm and mild
    Very windy and stormy
    Extremely hot
  • 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 type of winter bird
    A loud forest fire
    A hidden storage place
    A tool for digging
  • 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 give a gift
    To buy something
    To take property with authority
    To find something lost
  • 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