GRE word list

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• abase verb to reduce to a state of humiliation or low status; to degrade or bring into subjection
• abash verb to cause someone to feel deep embarrassment or shame, often resulting in silence or hesitation
• abate verb to decrease in intensity, severity, or strength
• abdicate verb to formally resign from a position of authority or office, especially one held by right or inheritance
• aberrant adjective straying from the normal, expected, or typical pattern or behavior; unusual or deviant
• aberration noun a sudden, unusual, or abnormal deviation from what is normal, expected, or typical
• abet verb to encourage or support someone in doing something, especially something wrong or illegal
• abeyance noun a state of suspension or inactivity; a temporary halt or pause, especially of a legal or official matter
• abhor verb to feel intense disgust or hatred toward someone or something
• abide verb to tolerate or accept something, especially something unpleasant or unjust, without resistance or protest
• abject adjective extremely miserable, degrading, or pitiful; showing utter despair or degradation
• abjure verb to formally renounce or reject a belief, principle, or action, especially one previously held or accepted
• abound verb to exist in large quantities or in great numbers; to be plentiful
• aboveboard adjective open, honest, and transparent; not secretive or deceitful
• abrasive adjective causing or characterized by wearing away or damaging through friction or harshness
• abreast adjective in step with or keeping up with others; synchronized or in harmony
• abridge verb to shorten or reduce in length, scope, or content, especially by omitting parts without altering the essential meaning
• abrogate verb to formally cancel or repeal a law, rule, or agreement
• abscission noun the process of shedding or dropping a part, especially a leaf, fruit, or organ, from a plant or organism
• abscond verb to leave suddenly and secretly, often to avoid responsibility or legal consequences
• abstain verb to refraining from doing or taking something, especially out of principle, discipline, or self-control
• abstemious adjective exercising self-restraint, especially in eating or drinking; avoiding excess or indulgence
• abstract adjective not concrete or tangible; existing only in thought or theory rather than in physical form
• abstruse adjective difficult to understand; obscure
• abut verb to come into contact with or border on; to touch or approach closely at a point or edge
• abysmal adjective extremely bad or disastrous; reaching a very low or terrible level
• abyss noun an extremely deep, dark, and often inaccessible place, especially one that symbolizes a profound void or despair
• accede verb to formally agree or consent to a proposal, decision, or request
• accentuate verb to make something more noticeable or prominent by emphasizing it
• accessible adjective able to be reached, understood, or used easily; open to access or entry
• acclaim verb to express enthusiastic approval or praise, especially publicly
• accolade noun a formal expression of praise or recognition, often awarded for achievement or excellence
• accord noun an agreement or mutual understanding between parties, especially one formalized by contract or treaty
• accretion noun the gradual addition or buildup of material, often over time, especially in a physical or abstract sense such as growth or accumulation
• acerbic adjective bitterly sharp or harsh in tone, especially in speech or writing
• acidulous adjective having a sharp, sour taste; characterized by acidity or bitterness
• acme noun the highest point or peak of something, especially in development, achievement, or success
• acolyte noun a young person or follower who assists a more senior or authoritative figure, especially in religious or hierarchical settings
• acquiesce verb to accept or yield without resistance or protest
• acquisitive adjective having a strong desire to acquire possessions, wealth, or power; greedy in obtaining things
• acrid adjective having a sharp, unpleasant, or irritating smell or taste, often associated with burning or chemical substances
• acrimonious adjective characterized by bitter or hostile anger; full of sharp, hostile criticism or resentment
• acrimony noun sharpness or bitterness of tone, language, or expression, especially in criticism or hostility
• activism noun organized efforts to promote or advocate for social, political, or environmental change through public action and advocacy
• actuate verb to cause or set into motion; to initiate or trigger an action or process
• acumen noun sharp insight or practical judgment, especially in business or decision-making
• adage noun a well-known saying or proverb, often expressing a general truth or piece of advice
• adamant adjective firmly determined; unyielding in opinion or stance
• adept adjective skilled or proficient in a particular activity or subject
• adhere verb to follow or conform strictly to a rule, principle, or standard; to remain loyal or steadfast in belief or action
• adherent noun a person who firmly follows a belief, doctrine, or practice
• adjudicate verb to decide or determine a matter, especially in a formal or legal context
• adjure verb to urgently command or warn someone, often with strong emotional or moral weight, to do or avoid something
• admonish verb to warn or caution someone, often formally or severely, about a potential wrongdoing or harmful action
• admonitory adjective serving as a warning or intended to caution against wrongdoing or danger
• adroit adjective skilful and resourceful, especially in handling difficult situations or tasks
• adulation noun excessive praise or admiration
• adulterate verb to mix with or contaminate something pure or authentic, especially to dilute it with inferior or foreign substances
• adumbrate verb to give a preliminary or vague indication of something that is not yet fully formed or realized
• adventitious adjective arising from or occurring outside of what is normally expected or inherent; not intrinsic or native.
• adverse adjective unfavorable or detrimental to a situation or outcome
• adversity noun a state of hardship or difficulty, especially one that is prolonged or severe
• advert noun a brief promotional message, typically published in a newspaper, magazine, or online platform, to advertise a product, service, or event
• advocate noun or verb a person who supports or promotes a cause, policy, or idea; to support or defend a position or cause
• aerie noun a high, often elevated nest or dwelling, especially of birds
• aesthete noun a person who places great importance on beauty, art, or sensory experience, often to the exclusion of practical or moral considerations
• aesthetic noun a set of principles or standards governing the appreciation of beauty or art, especially in visual or sensory forms
• affable adjective friendly and easy to approach or get along with
• affect verb to influence or produce a change in (something)
• affectation noun a false or exaggerated display of manners, taste, or emotion, often to appear more refined or sophisticated than one actually is
• affected adjective showing artificial or exaggerated emotion, style, or behavior; not genuine or natural
• affinity noun a natural inclination or strong attraction toward something or someone
• afflict verb to cause suffering, pain, or distress to (a person or thing)
• affluent adjective having a large amount of money or wealth
• afford verb to have the financial means to pay for something; to be able to provide or bear (a cost or obligation)
• affront noun a serious insult or violation of dignity or respect
• aggrandize verb to increase in size, power, or importance, especially through expansion or acquisition
• aggravate verb to make something worse or more intense, especially by causing irritation or distress
• aggregate noun a collection or sum of individual parts or elements combined into a whole
• aggrieve verb to cause injury, damage, or disadvantage to; to wrong or treat unfairly
• aghast adjective extremely shocked or horrified, often to the point of disbelief
• agitate verb to cause disturbance, unrest, or emotional turmoil in someone or something
• aide noun a person who assists or supports another, especially in a professional or official capacity
• alacrity noun the quality of being eager or enthusiastic; promptness and readiness to act
• albeit conjunction although; despite
• alchemy noun the ancient art or science of transforming base substances into noble ones, especially through mystical or speculative means; often used metaphorically to describe the process of turning something ordinary into something valuable or extraordinary.
• alcove noun a small, recessed space or projection in a wall, often used for storage or seating
• alienate verb to make someone feel estranged or hostile toward you; to cause a person or group to lose trust or affection
• allay verb to reduce or relieve (fear, anxiety, anger, or tension)
• allege verb to claim or state as a fact, often without proof or evidence
• alleviate verb to reduce the severity or intensity of (a problem, pain, or difficulty)
• allusion noun a brief, indirect reference to something, often a person, place, event, or idea, without explicitly naming it
• allusive adjective implying or suggesting something indirectly, without direct statement
• aloof adjective unapproachable or indifferent; showing emotional or social distance
• altruism noun the concern for the well-being of others, often at a personal cost
• altruistic adjective showing concern for the well-being of others, often at the expense of oneself
• amalgam noun a mixture of different substances combined in a unified form, often with distinct properties that differ from those of the individual components
• amalgamate verb to combine or blend different elements into a single, unified whole
• amalgamation noun the process or result of combining different elements or entities into a single unified whole
• ambience noun the quality of the atmosphere or environment, especially in terms of its sensory and emotional impact
• ambiguous adjective having more than one possible interpretation or meaning; open to more than one interpretation
• ambivalence noun a state of conflicting feelings or attitudes toward something, involving both positive and negative emotions simultaneously
• ambivalent adjective feeling mixed or conflicting emotions about something; neither fully favorable nor fully unfavorable
• ambrosia noun a mythical food, said to be the food of the gods, often used metaphorically to describe something exceptionally delicious or delightful
• ameliorate verb to improve or make better, especially in a gradual or systematic way
• amenable adjective willing to comply or agree; open to suggestion or change
• amend verb to change or modify, especially to correct or improve
• amiable adjective friendly, pleasant, and easy to get along with
• amicable adjective friendly, harmonious, and conducive to peaceful or cooperative relations
• amorous adjective showing or characterized by strong romantic or sexual desire
• amorphous adjective lacking a definite shape, form, or structure; indistinct or formless
• amortize verb to reduce the value or cost of something over time, especially through regular payments or deductions
• amply adverb in a sufficient or abundant amount or degree
• amuck adverb in a state of wild, uncontrolled, or chaotic behavior; frenzied or uncontrollable
• amulet noun a small object, often worn as a talisman, believed to protect the wearer from harm or evil forces
• anachronism noun an object, idea, or practice that is out of place in a particular time period, especially one that belongs to a later or earlier era than the one in which it is found
• anachronistic adjective belonging to a period earlier than the one in which it is found or used, especially in a context where it is out of place or inappropriate by time.
• analgesia noun the state or condition of reduced or absent pain sensation
• analgesic noun a substance that relieves pain
• analogous adjective having a similar structure, function, or relationship despite differences in form or origin
• anarchy noun the absence of government or organized authority, resulting in disorder and chaos
• anathema noun something that is deeply hated or considered utterly unacceptable
• ancillary adjective relating to something that is secondary, supportive, or supplementary to a main function or system
• androgynous adjective possessing characteristics of both males and females, especially in appearance or behavior
• anemic adjective lacking in strength, vitality, or essential elements; especially, deficient in blood or nutrients
• anesthetic adjective causing or producing a loss of sensation or feeling, especially in a medical context
• animosity noun a strong feeling of ill will or hostility toward someone or something
• animus noun a strong, often hidden, desire or intention, especially one that is hostile or aggressive
• annul verb to cancel or make invalid, especially a legal or official action or agreement
• anodyne adjective lacking in sharpness or intensity; soothing or calming, especially in a way that dulls pain or discomfort
• anoint verb to apply oil or grease to (a person or object) as a ritual or symbolic act, often to signify consecration, blessing, or preparation
• anomalous adjective deviating from the expected, normal, or typical pattern or behavior
• anomaly noun a deviation from the expected, normal, or typical pattern or condition
• antagonize verb to provoke hostility or opposition in someone
• antecedent noun a person, event, or circumstance that precedes or serves as the basis for a subsequent event or statement
• antedate verb to exist or occur before a specified time or event
• antedated verb to place something earlier in time than it actually occurred or should occur, often in a document or record
• anthology noun a collection of writings or works by various authors, compiled for a specific purpose or theme
• anthropocentrism noun the belief that humans are the central or most important entity in the universe, often leading to the prioritization of human needs over those of other living beings or natural systems.
• anthropomorphic adjective attributing human characteristics or traits to non-human entities, such as animals or objects
• antic adjective a playful or amusing act or gesture; a frolicsome or whimsical behavior
• antipathy noun a strong feeling of dislike or aversion toward someone or something
• antiquated adjective outdated or obsolete, especially in a way that seems out of touch with modern times or standards
• antithesis noun a direct opposite or contrast in nature, quality, or meaning
• antithetical adjective contrary in nature or meaning; opposing in essence
• apathetic adjective lacking interest, concern, or emotion; indifferent
• apathy noun a lack of interest, concern, or emotional response to events or situations
• ape verb to imitate or mimic, often in a clumsy or unskilled manner; to copy someone's actions, mannerisms, or speech without understanding or subtlety
• apex noun the highest point or peak of something, especially in a structure, process, or development
• aphorism noun a concise statement that expresses a general truth or principle, often in a memorable or wise way
• aphoristic adjective expressing or characterized by aphorisms; concise and memorable in conveying a general truth or principle.
• aplomb noun confident ease or composure, especially in difficult or stressful situations
• apocryphal adjective believed to be false or not authentic, especially when originating from a source that is unreliable or not officially recognized
• apogee noun the point in the orbit of a celestial body or in the path of a satellite when it is farthest from the Earth or another body
• apologist noun a person who defends or justifies a controversial or unpopular position, often by downplaying its flaws or consequences
• apostate noun a person who renounces a religious, political, or ideological belief or commitment, especially after having previously adhered to it
• apostle noun a person who is sent or designated to spread a belief, doctrine, or message, especially in a religious context
• apothegm noun a concise, wise saying or maxim, often of philosophical or moral significance
• apotheosis noun the act or state of elevating someone or something to a divine or ideal status; the highest possible expression or achievement of a concept or idea
• apparent adjective Clearly visible or evident to the senses or understanding; obvious or noticeable without need for inference.
• appeal noun or verb a formal request or argument made to persuade someone to act or accept a particular course of action; also, a strong attraction or liking for something
• appease verb to satisfy or calm, especially by giving in to demands or by offering something to reduce anger or hostility
• append verb to add something to the end of something else, especially in a formal or official context
• appoint verb to officially assign or designate someone to a position or role
• apposite adjective suitable or appropriate in context or timing
• appreciable adjective noticeable or significant in amount, degree, or effect
• apprehension noun a feeling of worry, fear, or anxiety about a possible negative outcome
• apprise verb to inform or notify someone formally or thoroughly
• approbation noun official or formal approval or acceptance, especially of a person's actions or character
• approbatory adjective expressing or showing approval or approval-worthy quality
• appropriate verb to take for one's own use, especially in an improper or unauthorized manner
• appurtenance noun a thing that belongs to or is attached to another thing by right, ownership, or necessity
• appurtenant adjective belonging to or attached to something as a natural or necessary part; adjunct
• apropos adverb pertaining to or appropriate to a particular subject or situation; suitably or timely in reference to something
• apt adjective well-suited or appropriate for a particular purpose or situation
• aquiline adjective having the shape of a hawk's or eagle's beak; characterized by a long, narrow, pointed nose or facial structure
• arbiter noun a person who has the authority to make a decision or judgment, especially in a dispute or conflict
• arbitrate verb to decide a dispute between two parties impartially, often by acting as a neutral third party
• arcane adjective secretly known or understood; obscure and difficult to comprehend
• arch noun a curved structure, typically supporting a roof or ceiling, formed by a span of stone, wood, or concrete
• archaic adjective outdated or obsolete, especially in language or customs, no longer in use or accepted in modern times
• archetype noun a fundamental model or pattern of behavior, character, or idea that is widely recognized and repeated across cultures or stories
• ardent adjective intensely passionate or enthusiastic
• ardor noun intense enthusiasm or passion, especially for a cause, activity, or pursuit
• arduous adjective difficult, laborious, or requiring great effort
• aria noun a solo vocal piece, typically in a musical composition, especially in opera or classical music
• armada noun a large fleet of ships, typically used in military or historical contexts
• arrant adjective complete, absolute, or total; without any qualification or exception
• arrest verb to halt, stop, or bring to a standstill
• arresting adjective causing strong attention or interest; striking or compelling immediately by its vividness or intensity
• arriviste noun a person who has recently acquired wealth or status through means not traditionally associated with social or economic advancement, often seen as lacking genuine background or merit
• arrogate verb to take or claim something unjustly or without right, especially power, authority, or privilege
• artful adjective showing skill and cleverness in achieving a desired outcome, especially in a subtle or deceptive way
• articulate adjective able to express ideas clearly and precisely, especially in speech or writing
• artifact noun an object made or created by human activity, especially one of historical or cultural significance
• artifice noun a deliberate, often deceptive, means or device used to achieve a particular end, especially one that is artificial or not genuine
• artless adjective lacking artifice or pretense; genuine and unembellished
• artlessness noun the quality of being free from artificiality or pretense; a lack of effort to appear sophisticated or refined
• ascendancy noun the state or condition of having dominant influence or control over others or a situation
• ascertain verb to determine or establish with certainty
• ascetic adjective characterized by severe self-discipline, especially in regard to diet, possessions, or pleasure; lacking indulgence or comfort.
• ascribe verb to attribute or assign a cause, origin, or responsibility to something
• aseptic adjective free from bacteria or microorganisms; sterile
• askance adverb in a suspicious or critical manner; with a sideways or disapproving glance
• asperity noun the quality of being sharp, harsh, or biting; a state of sharpness or severity, especially in tone or character
• aspersion noun a malicious or unjustified accusation or statement intended to damage someone's reputation
• aspersions noun baseless accusations or criticisms made against someone or something, often without evidence
• assail verb to attack or assault violently or aggressively, often with intent to harm or overwhelm
• assay noun a systematic investigation or test to determine the quality, quantity, or effectiveness of a substance or process
• assent verb to agree or give formal approval
• assert verb to state firmly or confidently, especially in opposition to a contrary claim or fact
• assertive adjective showing confidence and directness in expressing one's opinions or demands; unyielding in stance or position
• assiduous adjective characterized by careful and persistent attention or effort
• assiduously adverb with great care, diligence, and consistency; persistently and thoroughly
• assimilate verb to incorporate or adapt something into one's own system, culture, or understanding, often through gradual integration
• assuage verb to reduce or alleviate the intensity of (pain, anxiety, anger, or sorrow)
• astonishment noun a strong feeling of surprise or wonder, often accompanied by disbelief
• astringent adjective causing or producing a drying or tightening sensation, especially in the mouth or skin; having a sharp, bitter taste that constricts or reduces moisture.
• astute adjective showing sharp intelligence or keen insight, especially in judgment or decision-making
• asunder adjective or adverb apart; into pieces; separated
• atavism noun The reappearance of a trait or characteristic in an organism that was present in its ancestors but had been lost in earlier generations, often indicating a regression to an ancestral state.
• attenuate verb to reduce in intensity, strength, or magnitude
• attitude noun a fixed mental state or disposition toward a person, thing, or situation, often reflecting beliefs, values, or emotions
• attribute noun or verb to assign a quality, characteristic, or value to something; or a quality or feature that is assigned to something
• attuned adjective adjusted or sensitive to a particular condition, emotion, or frequency; responsive to external stimuli or internal states
• audacious adjective showing boldness or courage in a way that is daring or fearless, often to the point of being reckless or impertinent
• audacity noun the quality of boldness or courage in doing something daring or risky, especially in a way that is seen as reckless or impertinent
• augment verb to increase in size, amount, or intensity
• augury noun a sign or omen, especially one interpreted as predicting future events
• august adjective imposing in appearance or dignity; noble or majestic in character or authority
• auspices noun the official or formal circumstances under which something is established or conducted, especially an organization, event, or project
• auspicious adjective favorable or promising, especially in regard to future events or outcomes
• austere adjective characterized by simplicity, severity, or lack of luxury or ornamentation; often implying a cold or strict quality
• authoritarian adjective characterized by strict control, obedience, and the assertion of authority without democratic input or consent
• autocratic adjective governing or ruling by a single person without consultation or input from others, especially in a manner that is authoritarian and dismissive of democratic processes
• automate verb to replace manual processes with machines or computer systems to perform tasks more efficiently and with less human intervention
• autonomous adjective capable of operating or functioning independently, without external control or direction
• autonomously adverb In a self-governing or self-directed manner, without external control or interference.
• autonomy noun the right or ability of an individual or group to make independent decisions without external control or interference
• auxiliary adjective serving as a support or addition to something primary; functioning to assist or supplement a main element or system
• avarice noun an excessive and often greedy desire for wealth or material gain
• avaricious adjective having an excessive and often greedy desire for wealth or material gain
• aver verb to state or assert firmly or officially; to declare
• aversion noun a strong dislike or negative feeling toward something
• avert verb to turn away from (something undesirable, such as danger, attention, or an unpleasant reality)
• avid adjective intensely enthusiastic or eager about something
• avocation noun a hobby or leisure activity pursued in addition to one's primary occupation
• avow verb to state or declare openly and firmly, often with sincerity or conviction
• avuncular adjective characterized by a warm, friendly, and paternal-like attitude, often resembling that of an uncle toward a younger person
• axiom noun a self-evident truth or principle accepted as true without proof
• axiomatic adjective self-evidently true or accepted as a fundamental principle without requiring proof
• badger verb to persistently nag, harass, or pressure someone, often in an annoying or intrusive way (distinct from the common meaning of a mammal)
• badinage noun light, playful, or frivolous conversation, often used to avoid serious topics or to amuse through wit and wordplay
• baleful adjective harsh, malevolent, or harmful in nature; expressing or causing ill will or danger
• balk verb to hesitate or refuse to proceed, often due to fear, doubt, or opposition
• balloon noun a flexible, often inflated container, typically made of rubber or plastic, used to hold air or gas and commonly associated with celebration or flight
• banal adjective lacking originality or depth; commonplace to the point of being dull or uninteresting
• banality noun the quality of being trivial or unoriginal; something that is commonplace and lacks depth or significance
• bandy verb to exchange or pass back and forth, especially in a playful or competitive manner
• bane noun a source of harm or destruction; something that brings misfortune or ruin
• banish verb to drive away or remove permanently, especially from a place or from one's mind or presence
• banter noun light, playful, and often humorous conversation, typically between friends or acquaintances, intended to be informal and not serious
• baroque adjective characterized by excessive ornamentation, complexity, and dramatic contrast, often in art, architecture, or music
• barrage noun a large, unrelenting stream or flood of attacks, statements, or projectiles
• barren adjective lacking in fertility or productivity; devoid of life, growth, or resources
• base noun a fundamental or foundational element; the origin or starting point of something
• bate verb to diminish or lessen; to restrain or check
• bauble noun a small, ornamental object, often decorative or trivial, typically of little practical value
• bawdy adjective offensive or indecent, especially in language or content that is vulgar or sexually suggestive
• baying verb to howl or cry loudly, especially in a continuous or aggressive manner, often in a group or in pursuit
• beatific adjective characterized by or expressing a state of divine or serene happiness; blissful, especially in a spiritual or transcendent way
• bedlam noun a state of chaotic disorder or uproar, especially in a crowd or public place
• befuddled adjective confused or puzzled, especially due to a lack of clear understanding or information
• beg verb to request urgently or insist upon something, often with strong emotion or desperation
• begrudge verb to feel resentment or unwillingness to give or allow something, especially money or a privilege
• beguile verb to deceive or mislead someone, often subtly or charmingly, to achieve a desired outcome
• behooves verb to require or advise as the best course of action; to be advantageous or proper for someone to do
• belabor verb to emphasize or repeat something to such an extent that it becomes tedious or overdone
• beleaguer verb to attack or harass continuously and persistently, often with great intensity
• belfry noun a tower or structure housing a bell, typically found in a church or monastery
• belie verb to contradict or misrepresent; to give a false impression of (in contrast to the common everyday meaning of 'to believe' or 'to have faith in')
• belittle verb to treat or speak of something or someone in a way that diminishes their importance, value, or dignity
• bellicose adjective readily inclined to fight or engage in conflict; aggressively hostile
• belligerent adjective readily inclined to fight or engage in conflict; aggressively hostile
• bemoan verb to express sorrow or complaint about a situation, often in a prolonged or public manner
• bemuse verb to confuse or amuse in a puzzling or unexpected way; to perplex
• bemused adjective curiously puzzled or confused, especially in a way that suggests a lack of understanding of a situation or person's behavior
• beneficent adjective showing kindness or doing good; having a beneficial or helpful effect
• benevolent adjective showing kindness, generosity, and goodwill toward others
• benighted adjective in a state of ignorance or darkness; lacking clear understanding or guidance, especially due to poor judgment or lack of knowledge
• benign adjective kind, gentle, and harmless; not causing harm or danger
• bent adjective or verb 1. (adjective) Curved or deformed from its original straight form; 2. (verb) To be inclined or inclined toward a particular action, belief, or outcome; to be inclined or persuaded.
• bequeath verb to pass on (something, especially property or an inheritance) to someone by will or inheritance
• berate verb to criticize severely or harshly, often in a way that is emotionally offensive or unjustified
• bereave verb to cause someone to lose a loved one, especially through death
• bereft adjective left without something essential, especially emotional support or a loved one
• beseech verb to plead urgently or earnestly, often with emotional appeal, to ask for something with strong desire or desperation
• besiege verb to attack or surround with force, often in a threatening or overwhelming manner
• besmirch verb to defile, tarnish, or damage the reputation or integrity of something, especially through malicious or careless action
• besotted adjective deeply and uncontrollably in love or infatuated, often to the point of obsession