Word List
bombastic (bom·bas·tik) adj. speaking pompously, with inflated self-
importance. Ahmed was shocked that a renowned and admired humanitarian
could give such a bombastic keynote address.
censure(sen·shu ̆r) n.an expression of strong criticism or disapproval; a
rebuke or condemnation. After the Senator was found guilty of taking bribes,
Congress unanimously agreed to censure him.
derisive(di·r ̄·siv) adj.scornful, expressing ridicule; mocking, jeering. In
order to ensure a positive environment, derisive comments were forbidden in the
classroom.
disparage(di·spar·ij) v.to speak of in a slighting or derogatory way; to
belittle. Comedians often disparage politicians as part of their comedic routines.
effusive(i·fyoo·siv) adj.expressing emotions in an unrestrained or exces-
sive way; profuse, overflowing, gushy. Anne’s unexpected effusive greeting made
Tammy uncomfortable.
eloquent(el·o ̆·kwe ̆nt) adj.expressing strong emotions or arguments in
a powerful, fluent, and persuasive manner. Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg
Address is considered one of the most eloquent speeches ever given by a U.S.
president.
gainsay(ayn·say) v.to deny, contradict, or declare false; to oppose. Petra
would gainsay all accusations made against her.
harangue(ha·ran) n.a long, often scolding or bombastic speech; a tirade.
Members of the audience began to get restless during the senator’s political
harangue.
importune(im·por·toon) v.1. to ask incessantly, make continuous requests.
- to beg persistently and urgently. Children can’t help but importune during
the holidays, constantly nagging for the irresistible toys they see advertised on tel-
evision.
malapropism(mal·a ̆·prop·iz·e ̆m) n.comical misuse of words, especially
those that are similar in sound. The politician’s malapropisms may make us
laugh, but they will not win our votes.
mince(mins) v.1. to cut into very small pieces. 2. to walk or speak affect-
edly, as with studied refinement. 3. to say something more delicately or
indirectly for the sake of politeness or decorum. Please don’t mince your
words—just tell me what you want to say.