untrammeled
adjective: not confined or limited
The whole notion of living untrammeled inspired the American Revolution and was enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution
reprisal
noun: a retaliatory action against an enemy in wartime
The Old Testament doctrine of "an eye for an eye" would seem to justify an immediate physical reprisal for any injury, but that interpretation neglects the many passages that value mercy and loving-kindness over revenge.
unstinting
adjective: very generous
Helen is unstinting with her time, often spending hours at the house of a sick friend.
rapprochement
noun: the reestablishing of cordial relations
Although Ann hoped that her mother and her aunt would have a rapprochement, each one's bitter accusations against the other made any reconciliation unlikely.
brook
verb: put up with something or somebody unpleasant
While she was at the chalkboard, the teacher did not brook any form of talking--even a tiny peep resulted in afternoon detention.
This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study
debonair
adjective: having a sophisticated charm
James Bond is known for his good looks, high tech gadgets, and debonair manner.
debonair
adjective: having a sophisticated charm
James Bond is known for his good looks, high tech gadgets, and debonair manner.
atavism
noun: a reappearance of an earlier characteristic; throwback
Much of the modern art movement was an atavism to a style of art found only in small villages through Africa and South America.
pith
noun: the most essential part of something
When Cynthia hears a speaker presenting a complex argument, she is always able to discard the irrelevant details and extract the pith of what the speaker is trying to convey.
This word has other definitions but this is the most important one to study
besotted
adjective: strongly affectionate towards
Even though her father did not approve, Juliet became besotted with the young Romeo.
adjective: very drunk
Never before have I seen my mom so besotted, and honestly, I hope it's the last time she drinks so much.
