Inscrutable (adjective) Definition: mysterious and not easily analyzed or understood. Inscrutable is often used to describe a person or a person’s facial expressions. To remember the word, think of the related verb scrutinize, which means...

Passive (adjective) Definition: 1. not actively participating; 2. obeying with little or no resistance. Think of the related word pass, as it means “allow to go by.” The underlying meaning is that of inactivity. Example...

Hypothetical (adjective) Definition:  being assumed or held as a possibility or idea–theoretical Example Sentences: – There’s an academic tradition called the ‘Last Lecture.’ Hypothetically, if you knew you were going to die and you had...

Antithesis (noun) Definition:  1. the exact opposite of something or someone; 2. a use of words or phrases that contrast with each other to create a balanced effect Example Sentences: – His boisterous and loud...

Augment (verb) Definition:  to increase or make greater by adding something. Example Sentences: – Valour grows by daring, fear grows by holding back, Audacity augments courage – If you want to augment your investment portfolio,...

Fusillade (noun) Definition: 1. a rapid discharge of firearms; 2. a sustained attack; 3. an outpouring of something, such as words or emotions. In its figurative sense, a fusillade is an outpouring or onslaught of...

Deference (noun) Definition: 1. polite respect, especially putting another persons interests first; 2. a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others. When learning the word deference, think of the related verb defer,...

Heterodoxy (noun) Definition: disagreement with established opinions. The adjective heterodox is synonymous with unorthodox and unconventional. Use the noun heterodoxy in place of “heresy” or “dissent” to describe the belief system of someone who is...

Engender (verb) Definition: 1. to create or give rise to; 2. to make children. Engender is often used in business discourse as a more sophisticated way of saying “create” or “bring about.” Example Sentences: –...

Eccentric (adjective) Definition:  1. unconventional or unusual; 2. not having a common center Eccentric is also a noun, meaning “an unusual person.” When thinking of the word eccentric, think of “center” and remember that it...