SAT word list

2,533 words · page 3 of 9

GRESAT / ACT

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• defunct adjective no longer in operation or existence; ceased to function or be active
• degrade verb to become worse in quality, condition, or value over time
• deliberate adjective carefully considered and intentional; not hasty or impulsive
• delineate verb to define or describe clearly and precisely, especially in terms of boundaries or characteristics
• delta noun a broad, flat area of land formed at the mouth of a river where it meets a larger body of water, often characterized by sediment deposition and wetlands
• demeanor noun the way a person conducts themselves, especially in terms of their appearance, attitude, or behavior; the outward expression of one's character or disposition
• demise noun the end or termination of something, especially a person, organization, or entity; the final collapse or extinction
• demonstrable adjective capable of being proven or shown through evidence or observation
• demonstrate verb to show or prove something clearly, especially by example or action
• demonstration noun a public showing or exhibition of a process, idea, or concept, often to illustrate or persuade an audience
• demonstrative adjective showing or expressing something clearly, especially through actions or words; inclined to show off or be openly expressive
• demur verb to hesitate or object to a proposal, request, or action, often politely or cautiously
• denial noun the act of refusing to acknowledge or accept something, especially a fact, truth, or responsibility
• denigrate verb to degrade or diminish the value, reputation, or worth of (something or someone)
• denote verb to indicate or express the meaning of something clearly or explicitly
• denounce verb to formally condemn or express strong disapproval of someone or something
• dense adjective having a high concentration of matter or elements; thick, compact, or lacking in gaps; also, containing a great deal of information or meaning in a small space.
• dependence noun a state or condition of relying on another person, thing, or system for support, function, or survival
• depict verb to represent or show something visually or in words, especially in a detailed or artistic manner
• deplete verb to reduce to a very low level or to use up completely
• deplorable adjective worthy of strong disapproval; extremely bad or unacceptable
• deploy verb to assign, send, or place (people, equipment, or resources) for a specific purpose or operation
• deprecate verb to express disapproval or criticism in a way that is condescending or overly negative, often to diminish the value or importance of something or someone
• depress verb to lower in mood, spirit, or value; to cause to become sad or discouraged
• depression noun a prolonged period of low mood; a state of economic decline; a sunken area.
• deregulation noun the process of removing government controls or restrictions on an industry, market, or activity, often leading to increased competition and reduced oversight
• deride verb to mock or ridicule in a contemptuous manner
• derision noun contemptuous mockery or scornful treatment
• derisive adjective expressing ridicule or mockery
• derivation noun the act or process of deriving something, especially a word, concept, or idea, from a source or original form
• derivative adjective originating from or based on something else; not original, but developed from a prior form or source
• derive verb to obtain from a source, especially through logical or intellectual process
• derogatory adjective expressing or intended to belittle or insult someone or something
• desolate adjective extremely lonely or deserted; lacking people or life; barren and uninhabited
• despite this conjunctive adverb A transitional phrase indicating concession; it introduces a statement that remains true or valid even in light of a previously mentioned obstacle or contrary fact.
• despondent adjective feeling or showing deep sadness or hopelessness
• destination noun the final place or point intended to be reached in a journey or process
• destitute adjective completely without means of support or resources; impoverished to the point of destitution
• detached adjective lacking emotional involvement or personal concern; objective and impartial
• detect verb to perceive or discover something that is hidden, subtle, or otherwise not immediately apparent
• detectable adjective capable of being detected or observed
• detection noun the act or process of identifying or discovering something, especially something hidden or unknown
• detective noun a person who investigates crimes or mysteries to identify the truth or perpetrator
• deter verb to prevent or discourage someone from doing something, usually by creating a sense of risk or negative consequence
• deterrent noun a factor or action that discourages or prevents something from happening
• detract verb to reduce the value, importance, or quality of something; to diminish
• detrimental adjective causing harm or damage to something or someone
• developmental adjective relating to the process of growth or development, especially in stages over time, such as in children or organisms.
• deviate verb to depart from a standard, rule, or expected course or path
• deviation noun a departure from the normal, expected, or standard course or pattern
• devious adjective intentionally cunning or sly in a way that is deceitful or untrustworthy
• devise verb to create or invent something, especially a plan, device, or method
• devoid adjective lacking something entirely; having no presence or quantity of a particular quality or substance
• devote verb to allocate time, energy, or attention to a particular purpose or activity
• devotion noun a strong, often unwavering commitment or loyalty to a person, cause, or belief
• dexterous adjective able to move or act with great skill, agility, and precision
• diagnose verb to identify the cause or nature of a condition, especially a disease or malfunction, through examination or testing
• diagnosis noun a professional determination of the nature or cause of a disease, condition, or disorder based on symptoms and medical evaluation
• diagnostic adjective capable of diagnosing or identifying a condition, disease, or problem through observation or testing
• diagram noun a visual representation showing the structure, relationships, or components of something in a simplified or organized form
• dialect noun a regional or social variety of a language distinguished by vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation
• diatribe noun a long, angry, and often passionate speech or writing directed against a person or idea
• dichotomy noun a clear division between two sharply contrasted things
• didactic adjective intending or characterized by the purpose of teaching; overly instructive or pedantic in a way that may seem condescending or boring
• differentiate verb to distinguish or identify the differences between two or more things
• differentiation noun the process of distinguishing or separating one thing from another, especially in terms of structure, function, or characteristics
• diffident adjective lacking confidence; shy or hesitant in social situations
• digest verb to summarize or absorb and make sense of information; less common in SAT context than the everyday sense of 'to eat' or 'to break down food'.
• digress verb to depart from the main topic or subject of discussion; to wander off from the central point
• dilapidated adjective in a state of severe decay or disrepair; crumbling or ruined
• dilatory adjective causing or characterized by delay or postponement; slow or unproductive in action or decision
• dilemma noun a difficult situation involving a choice between two or more undesirable alternatives
• diligence noun the quality of being careful, thorough, and persistent in one's work or duties
• diligent adjective showing careful and persistent attention to duty or task
• dilute verb to reduce the concentration of a substance by adding a solvent, especially water, or to lessen the strength or intensity of something
• dimension noun a measurable aspect or feature of something, especially one that contributes to its overall nature or structure
• dimensional adjective relating to the dimensions of an object or space; having specified dimensions
• diminish verb to make smaller in size, amount, intensity, or strength
• diminutive adjective very small in size or scale; small in stature or importance
• diplomatic adjective showing tact, respect, and sensitivity in dealing with others, especially in conflict or disagreement
• dire adjective extremely serious, severe, or threatening; often implying a state of urgent danger or hardship
• directive noun a clear instruction or order given to someone to perform a specific action
• disability noun a physical, mental, or sensory condition that limits a person's ability to perform certain activities or functions normally.
• disadvantage noun a condition or circumstance that makes something less favorable or less likely to succeed
• disarray noun a state of confusion or chaos; lack of order or organization
• disavow verb to deny responsibility for, connection with, or association to something or someone
• discard verb to throw away or reject without further consideration or use
• discern verb to perceive or understand something clearly, especially through careful observation or analysis
• discerning adjective able to perceive or understand subtle differences or nuances; showing careful attention to detail and judgment
• discharge verb to release or expel something, especially from a body, machine, or system, or to formally end a duty or obligation
• discipline noun a branch or field of study; a specific area of academic or scientific inquiry (as opposed to the common everyday meaning of strictness or control)
• disclose verb to reveal or make known, especially something previously hidden or secret
• disconcert verb to cause confusion, uncertainty, or mental disturbance in someone
• discord noun a state of disagreement or conflict; a lack of harmony
• discount noun or verb a reduction in price or value; a partial subtraction from a total amount
• discourse noun a detailed and systematic discussion or presentation of ideas, often in a formal or academic context
• discredit verb to damage the reputation or credibility of someone or something by presenting evidence or arguments that undermine their trustworthiness
• discreet adjective showing careful judgment in avoiding unnecessary exposure or disclosure; prudent in matters of privacy or sensitivity
• discrepancy noun a difference or inconsistency between expected and actual conditions or values
• discrete adjective separate and distinct, not continuous or blended with others
• discretion noun the ability to make sound judgments or decisions, especially in a situation requiring careful judgment or restraint
• discretionary adjective relating to something that is optional or not required by rule or policy; subject to the judgment or choice of an individual.
• discriminate verb to distinguish or tell apart carefully, especially by analyzing subtle differences; this is the sense tested on the SAT, distinct from the common meaning of treating people unfairly.
• discrimination noun the practice of treating people or things differently based on characteristics such as race, gender, or socioeconomic status, often unfairly or unjustly
• disdain noun a feeling of contempt or scorn toward someone or something
• disdainful adjective showing or expressing contempt or scorn; lacking respect or admiration
• disengage verb to withdraw from involvement, connection, or action; to separate or cease to be engaged
• disgruntled adjective feeling or showing dissatisfaction or annoyance, especially due to perceived unfairness or lack of recognition
• disillusion noun the state of being deprived of hope or confidence in something previously believed to be true or valuable
• dismantle verb to take apart or destroy systematically, especially a structure, system, or organization
• dismay noun a strong feeling of surprise, shock, or sorrow, especially in response to something unexpected or unpleasant
• dismissive adjective treated as unworthy of serious consideration; showing a lack of respect or interest in something or someone
• disparage verb to speak of someone or something in a way that damages their reputation or worth
• disparaging adjective expressing that something is of little worth; belittling
• disparate adjective distinctly different or unrelated in nature, quality, or character
• disparity noun a significant difference or inequality between two or more things, especially in status, wealth, or opportunity
• dispassionate adjective lacking emotion or personal feelings; objective and impartial
• dispel verb to remove or eliminate a belief, doubt, or misconception; to eradicate a falsehood or illusion
• disperse verb to spread out or scatter over a wide area or among many people or things
• displace verb to remove from a position or place, often by force or pressure, or to shift from a normal or original state
• displacement noun the act or process of removing or shifting something from its original position or function, often with a resulting change in status or role
• disposable adjective capable of being used once and then discarded; not essential or permanent
• disposal noun the act of getting rid of something, especially waste or unwanted material, or the method by which something is discarded or managed.
• dispose verb to get rid of or manage (something) in a particular way, often with the intention of removing it from consideration or use
• disposition noun an inherent tendency or attitude toward a particular course of action or behavior
• disproportionate adjective not in balance or proportion; exceeding what is reasonable or expected in size, degree, or intensity
• disputatious adjective given to argument or dispute; quarrelsome
• dispute verb to question or challenge the truth, validity, or accuracy of something
• disquiet noun a state of unease or anxiety; a feeling of disturbance or concern
• dissection noun a detailed examination or analysis of a subject, typically to understand its components or structure
• disseminate verb to distribute or spread information, ideas, or materials widely to a large audience or group
• dissent noun an official or public expression of disagreement with a decision, policy, or opinion
• dissertation noun a detailed and formal academic work, typically submitted as a requirement for a degree, especially a doctoral degree, involving original research and critical analysis.
• dissolve verb to become liquid or blend into a liquid; to cease to exist or be distinct
• dissonance noun a state of conflict or inconsistency between elements, ideas, or sounds, especially in music or thought
• dissuade verb to prevent someone from doing something by encouraging them not to do it, often through reasoning or persuasion
• distend verb to expand or swell outward, especially due to the accumulation of air, fluid, or content
• distinct adjective clearly different or separable from others; not ambiguous or indistinct
• distinction noun a clear difference or separation between two things, especially in quality, value, or nature
• distinctive adjective characterized by qualities that set it apart from others; uniquely identifiable
• distort verb to alter or change something in a misleading or incorrect way, especially to misrepresent its true form, meaning, or nature
• distortion noun a misrepresentation or incorrect alteration of something's true form, meaning, or nature
• distribute verb to divide or share something among a number of people or places
• distributive adjective relating to the distribution or sharing of something among parts or individuals
• disturbance noun an unexpected or disruptive event that interferes with peace, order, or normal functioning
• diverge verb to move or develop in different directions or become distinct from one another
• diverse adjective comprising a wide variety of types, forms, or characteristics; not uniform or monotonous
• diversification noun the process of spreading risk or investment across various areas or assets to reduce dependence on any single source.
• diversity noun the state or quality of being diverse; the presence of a wide range of differences in species, culture, opinions, or characteristics.
• divert verb to redirect or change the course of something, especially a flow of people, energy, or attention
• divisive adjective causing or leading to division, disagreement, or separation
• docile adjective easily controlled or submissive; lacking resistance to authority or direction
• doctor verb to alter or falsify information dishonestly, especially in records or statistics (contrasted with the common meaning of a medical professional)
• document noun an official record or written statement that serves as evidence or proof of a fact, event, or agreement
• documentation noun official records or written evidence of facts, events, or procedures
• dogmatic adjective firmly convinced of the correctness of one's beliefs or opinions, often without considering alternative views or evidence
• dogmatism noun the quality or state of being dogmatic; an unwavering belief in one's own views without regard for evidence or alternative perspectives.
• domain noun a specific area of knowledge, activity, or responsibility over which someone or something has control or authority
• dominance noun the state or quality of being dominant; control or supremacy over others or a situation
• dominant adjective holding the most power, influence, or control; prevailing in strength, importance, or presence
• dominate verb to control or have authority over something or someone, especially in a way that suppresses or overwhelms others
• domination noun the state or condition of ruling or controlling over others, especially in a powerful or oppressive way
• donor noun a person or entity that gives or provides something, especially money, blood, or a biological sample
• dormant adjective inactive or not functioning for a long period of time, especially in a biological or potential sense
• dose noun a measured amount of a substance, especially a medicine or chemical, administered at a specific time or in a particular quantity
• downplay verb to make something seem less important than it actually is
• dramatic adjective marked by intense emotion, sudden change, or striking contrast; showing a strong and noticeable effect or impact.
• dramatist noun a person who writes or produces dramatic works, such as plays or scripts
• drift verb to move or change gradually and without clear direction or control
• dubious adjective expressing doubt or uncertainty about the truth, validity, or reliability of something
• duplicity noun the quality of acting in a deceitful or double-faced manner, especially by pretending to have one set of beliefs or intentions while secretly having another
• duration noun the length of time that something continues or lasts
• duress noun a state of extreme pressure or threat, often forcing someone to act against their will or conscience
• dwindle verb to decrease in size, amount, or strength over time
• dynamic adjective characterized by constant change, activity, or progress
• earnest adjective sincere, serious, and heartfelt; showing genuine intent or emotion
• ebullient adjective full of lively enthusiasm or joy; exuberantly cheerful
• eccentric adjective unconventional or deviating from what is normal or expected, especially in behavior or beliefs
• eclectic adjective composed of elements selected from diverse sources; not uniform or conventional, but carefully chosen from various traditions or categories
• eclipse verb to surpass or outshine (someone or something) in prominence, influence, or ability; to overshadow in importance or visibility
• ecological adjective relating to or involving the relationships between organisms and their environment, especially in terms of balance and sustainability.
• ecology noun the study of the relationships between living organisms and their physical environment
• economical adjective using resources efficiently and sparingly; avoiding waste
• economist noun a professional who studies the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services in an economy
• economy noun a sparing or efficient use of resources, especially in language or materials; the quality of being concise and resourceful without waste (distinct from the common meaning of economic system or national finances)
• edict noun an official decree or command issued by an authority, especially one with legal or binding force
• edifice noun a large and often impressive building or structure, especially one of historical or architectural significance
• edit verb to revise or alter text or content to improve clarity, accuracy, or style
• editorial noun an article or opinion piece published in a newspaper or magazine that expresses the views of the editor or editorial board on a particular issue or topic
• efface verb to erase or remove completely, especially from memory or record
• effectiveness noun the quality or degree of being effective; the ability to produce a desired result
• effervescent adjective full of a lively, bubbling energy or enthusiasm; sparkling with vitality or excitement
• efficacy noun the quality or ability to produce a desired effect or result
• effrontery noun the act of showing boldness or insolence in a way that is considered impolite or inappropriate, especially in a context where such behavior is expected to be restrained
• effusive adjective expressing emotions or feelings in an unrestrained, gushing manner
• egregious adjective extremely noticeable or outstanding, often in a negative or unacceptable way
• elaborate verb to make more detailed, complex, or comprehensive; to expand upon in a thorough or intricate way
• elastic adjective able to change or adapt flexibly in response to circumstances; flexible in structure or application (distinct from the common sense of stretchy or stretchable, as in rubber).
• elasticity noun the ability to stretch or change shape without breaking or becoming permanently deformed
• element noun a fundamental part or constituent of something; a basic component or essential feature
• elementary adjective basic or fundamental; of the simplest or most basic nature
• elevate verb to raise or improve the level, status, or value of something or someone
• elevation noun a rise or increase in level, position, or status
• elicit verb to bring forth or cause to appear, especially through questioning or prompting
• eliminate verb to remove completely or to put an end to by action or decision
• elimination noun the act of removing or getting rid of something, especially through a process of selection or exclusion
• elite noun a small, distinguished group of individuals who are considered superior in ability, status, or achievement
• elocution noun the art or practice of clear, effective, and expressive spoken communication, especially in public speaking or formal discourse
• eloquence noun the quality of speaking or writing with clarity, precision, and persuasive power; the ability to express ideas effectively and persuasively
• eloquent adjective expressing ideas clearly, powerfully, and persuasively through speech or writing
• elucidate verb to make something clear or understandable, especially by explaining it in detail
• elusive adjective difficult to find, catch, or understand; hard to grasp or perceive
• emaciated adjective extremely thin and weakened, often due to illness or starvation
• embellish verb to enhance or decorate with additional details, often to make something more attractive or vivid
• emerge verb to appear or become visible, especially after a period of concealment or absence
• emergence noun the appearance or development of something previously absent or unseen
• eminent adjective distinguished or highly respected; outstanding in ability, achievement, or status
• emissary noun a person sent by one group or country to represent or negotiate on behalf of another
• emission noun the act of releasing or the process of discharging a substance, energy, or radiation into the environment
• emit verb to release or send out (something, such as light, sound, or energy) from a source
• empathy noun the ability to understand and share the feelings of others
• emperor noun a sovereign ruler of a large empire, typically holding supreme political and often religious authority over a vast territory
• emphasis noun the quality of being given special attention or importance; a strong focus on a particular point
• emphasize verb to make something more noticeable or important by giving it greater attention or stress
• emphatic adjective expressing strong emphasis or clear conviction; clearly stated or stressed
• empirical adjective based on observation or experiment rather than theory or speculation
• emulate verb to copy or imitate, especially in order to achieve a similar standard or success
• enable verb to make possible or allow to occur or function
• enamored adjective deeply fond or in love with someone or something; filled with strong affection or admiration
• encompass verb to include or cover completely, both in scope and in content
• encounter noun a meeting or interaction with someone or something, especially one that is unexpected or significant
• encroach verb to invade or extend into a territory, rights, or space that belongs to another, often unlawfully or without permission
• endemic adjective characteristic of a particular region or group; existing or occurring only in a specific place or among a particular population
• endorse verb to formally support or approve of something, often with authority or public recognition
• endure verb to withstand or tolerate something unpleasant, difficult, or painful for a prolonged period
• energetic adjective showing high energy, enthusiasm, or activity; full of vigor and motion
• enervate verb to weaken or diminish the strength, energy, or vitality of someone or something
• enforce verb to make something official or mandatory by authority or action
• enforcement noun the act of ensuring that rules, laws, or regulations are strictly observed and carried out
• engender verb to cause or bring about (something, especially a feeling, result, or condition)
• enhance verb to make better or stronger; to improve the quality or intensity of something
• enhancement noun a process or result of making something better or more effective
• enigma noun a mystery or puzzle that is difficult to understand or solve
• enigmatic adjective mysterious or puzzling in a way that defies easy explanation or understanding
• enmity noun a strong feeling of hostility or hatred toward someone or something
• ennui noun a feeling of listlessness or boredom, especially in the face of a monotonous or unstimulating situation
• enormity noun the quality or state of being extremely wicked or morally outrageous; great evil
• enormous adjective extremely large in size, amount, or degree
• entertain verb to consider or contemplate (as a possibility or idea); to think about seriously, without necessarily accepting it as true
• enthrall verb to captivate or mesmerize deeply, often to the point of losing one's sense of self or judgment
• entity noun a distinct and independent being or thing, whether physical, abstract, or conceptual, that exists separately and has its own identity
• enumerate verb to list or state explicitly, one by one
• environmentalist noun a person who advocates for the protection and preservation of the natural environment
• ephemeral adjective lasting for a very short time; temporary
• epidemic noun a widespread outbreak of a disease or condition affecting a large number of people in a specific region or population at the same time
• epitome noun the perfect or most typical example of something; the ideal representation of a concept or quality
• equality noun the state or condition of being equal in rights, value, or treatment
• equanimity noun a calm and even-minded attitude, especially in the face of adversity or uncertainty
• equate verb to consider two things as being equal in value, meaning, or importance
• equation noun a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions
• equip verb to provide with necessary tools, resources, or means for a particular purpose or activity
• equitable adjective fair and just; showing equal treatment or opportunity regardless of differences in status, background, or circumstance
• equivalence noun the state or quality of being equal or corresponding in value, meaning, or significance
• equivalent adjective having the same value, meaning, or effect as something else
• equivocal adjective unclear or ambiguous; open to more than one interpretation
• equivocate verb to express uncertainty or ambiguity in order to avoid giving a clear or direct answer
• erode verb to wear away gradually, especially by exposure to weather or time, causing deterioration or loss of strength or structure
• erosion noun the gradual wearing away of land or rock by natural forces such as water, wind, or ice
• erratic adjective unpredictable or irregular in pattern or behavior
• erroneous adjective containing or based on an error; incorrect or wrong
• error noun a mistake or deviation from what is correct, accurate, or expected
• erudite adjective possessing extensive knowledge, especially in a particular subject or field
• eschew verb to deliberately avoid or reject something, especially out of principle or preference
• esoteric adjective relating to something that is obscure, difficult to understand, or known only to a small, specialized group
• espouse verb to formally support or advocate for a belief, cause, or policy
• essence noun the fundamental nature or most vital characteristic of something
• establish verb to set up formally or officially; to create or confirm the existence of something
• establishment noun a formal organization, institution, or system that has been set up or recognized over time
• estimate verb to form a rough calculation or judgment about something, especially when exact data is unavailable
• estimation noun a reasonable guess or calculation based on available information or experience
• estrange verb to cause someone to become estranged or alienated, especially emotionally or socially
• ethereal adjective pertaining to something that is light, delicate, and otherworldly; existing in a spiritual or heavenly realm rather than the physical world
• ethic noun a system of moral principles or values that guide behavior in a particular context or community
• ethical adjective conforming to a standard of moral principles; morally right or just
• ethics noun The principles or standards of behavior that distinguish right from wrong in a given context or society.
• ethnic adjective relating to a particular ethnic group or culture, especially in terms of heritage, traditions, or identity
• ethnicity noun the cultural and social identity of a group of people based on shared heritage, language, traditions, and ancestry
• euphemism noun a mild or indirect expression used to replace one that is considered blunt, offensive, or unpleasant
• euphoria noun a state of intense happiness or pleasure, often overwhelming and sudden
• evaluate verb to assess or examine carefully in order to form a judgment or determine value
• evaluation noun a careful examination or assessment of something to determine its value, quality, or merit
• evanescent adjective fading quickly or disappearing without a trace; transient
• evasive adjective avoiding direct engagement or confrontation; deliberately indirect or circumstantial in speech or action
• even so conjunctive adverb Even so signals a concession — it acknowledges a contrary or unexpected fact while affirming that the main point still holds. It functions to show that despite a counterpoint, the original claim remains valid or true. This creates a nuanced logical relationship where the speaker or writer grants the opposing idea but maintains the truth of the initial assertion.
• even then conjunctive adverb Indicates that a situation or fact remains true despite a preceding condition, change, or expectation; emphasizes persistence or contrast.
• eventual adjective happening or resulting in the long term; not immediate but occurring after a period of time
• eventuality noun a possible or likely outcome that may or will eventually occur
• eventually conjunctive adverb Eventually signals a sequence of events that unfolds over time, indicating that a result or development follows after a period of delay or persistence. It implies a temporal progression toward a conclusion, often after initial resistance, uncertainty, or effort, and is used to show that something happens in the end, not immediately.
• evident adjective clearly visible or obvious; easily perceived or understood
• evoke verb to bring forth or call forth (a feeling, memory, or response) from someone or something