Case study Gary hart Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Case study Gary hart - Assignment Example 12,000 incurred the first week Analysis of revenues Revenue per day: 75%*60*24=?1,080 Payment in cash per day: 50%*1,080=?540 Revenue per month: 1,080*24=?25,920 Revenue per quarter: 25,920*3=?77,760 50% of daily sales are credit sales payable four weeks later Assumptions 1. Gary purchases ingredients once every month. 2. Waiting staff salaries and social security costs are payable every month. a. Gary’s Restaurant Trading cash budget For the year ended December 31, XXXX Quarter total 1 2 3 4 ? ? ? ? ? Cash b/f 48,484 126,364 213,248 Add receipts Cash sales 38,880 38,880 38,880 38,880 155,520 Collection from credit sales 77,760 77,760 77,760 77,760 311,040 Total cash available (A) 116,640 165,124 243,004 329,888 854,656 Less disbursement Kitchen staff 14,300 14,300 14,300 14,300 57,200 Waiting staff 3,432 3,432 3,432 3,432 13,728 Social security costs 5,200 5,200 5,200 5,200 20,800 Utilities 0 2,600 2,600 2,600 7,800 Rent 30,000 10,000 0 0 40,000 Council tax 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 8,000 Advertizing 12,000 0 1,000 1,000 14,000 Cost of ingredients 1,224 1,224 1,224 1,224 4,896 Total (B) 68,156 38,756 29,756 29,756 166,424 Cash balance (A-B) 48,484 126,364 213,248 300,132 688,228 b. ... ? Assets Current assets Debtors 9,720 Prepaid council tax 2,000 Fixed assets 50,000 61,720 Liabilities Creditors 0 Utilities due 650 Capital 61,070 61,720 Assumptions 1. The restaurant will pay all bills as they fall due, therefore there will be no creditors. 2. Utilities will be due since they are paid for the at the beginning of the following quarter; therefore those falling due December will be paid for beginning of January the following financial year. 3. I approximated the value of the restaurant’s fixed assets to be ?50,000 by the end of the first year. d. Gary’s Restaurant Weekly cash budget For the first month of operation Week 1 2 3 4 ? ? ? ? Cash b/f (27,240) (24,000) (21,168) Add receipts Cash sales 3,240 3,240 3,240 3,240 Credit sales 3,240 Total cash available (A) 3,240 (24,000) (20,760) (14,688) Less disbursement Kitchen staff 4,766.67 Waiting staff 1,144 Social security costs 1,733.33 Rent 10,000 Council tax 2,000 Advertizing 12,000 Cost of ingredients 40 8 Total (B) 30,480 408 7,644 Cash balance (A-B) (27,240) (24,000) (21,168) (22,332) Assumptions 1. Ingredients are ordered for and delivered within the first week, whereas their payment is made in the third week. 2. Staff salaries and security costs are paid for in the fourth week, assumed to be the end of month. 3. Gary’s restaurant will begin its operations in January, hence being the first moth of the restaurant’s operations. Working cash is the amount of money required for day to day operations within a business. This is a business’ capital in liquid currency that is necessary for purchasing assets to be used by the business and meeting various obligations of the business. Working cash of a business can also refer to the ability of a business to meet its liabilities and expenses that

Kingdom of matthias Essay Example for Free

Kingdom of matthias Essay The Kingdom of Matthias tells the story of Robert Matthews, who later took on the name Matthias the Prophet. A religious charlatan in 1830s New York, Matthews established a Kingdom of fanatical followers, causing a nationwide scandal. Matthews most fervent follower was Elijah Pierson, who was born into a strict Calvinist church upbringing but who quickly got swept up in the evangelical, perfectionist movement upon his move to New York as a merchant. Elijah married a missionary woman named Sarah, and together they established a Retrenchment Society and other organizations designed to spread the word of God. In her fervor, Sarah literally worked herself to death, and died in 1830. The event spurred Elijah toward madness as he attempted to raise Sarah from the dead during funeral. Elijah started to hear God speak and he adopted the title Prophet Elijah of Tishbe. Simultaneous to these events, Robert Matthews was born and raised in a Scottish community called Coila. His parents died when he was young, and after several of his sons tragically died, Matthews began to hear God and see prophetic visions. He adopted the name Matthias. In May 1832, Matthews visited Pierson, and Pierson became convinced that Matthews was Gods Prophet. Matthews used Piersons merchant wealth to establish The Kingdom. Matthews preached regularly to a small band of followers. Eventually, he came to regard Christianity as the Devils work, and his philosophy was full of anti-woman hatred. Matthews convinced a wealthy couple, Benjamin and Ann Folger, of his prophethood, and soon he established a community at the Folger home in Sing Sing, which he called Mount Zion. Matthews ruled his community with an iron fist, dressing extravagantly, bearing an unkempt beard, punishing severely, and lecturing frequently. Not content with the Christian conception of marriage, several of Matthews followers forsake marriage to be united in the Spirit of Truth. This caused a good deal of scandalous wife-swapping, as it might be called today. Matthews and Ann fell for each other, and Matthews proclaimed Ann as the Mother of the kingdom. Benjamin strayed to Matthews twenty-year-old daughter Isabella, as well as to a widow named Catherine Galloway. The sexual intrigue proved too much for the community, and Benjamin and then Ann revolt. Additionally, an increasing public outcry against the Kingdom and its scandals assisted in its dissolution. One day, Elijah Pierson, suffering from seizures, ate blackberries and soon after died. The public rumor was that Matthews, along with his servant Isabella Van Wagenen, had poisoned the man. Matthews was arrested and tried with murder after two doctors conducted an autopsy and claimed there was poison in Piersons stomach. However, the prosecution had only a flimsy case, and the jury found Matthews not guilty of murder, but guilty of assault (for beating his daughter), and so Matthews served four months in prison. The Kingdom of Matthias scandal is noteworthy for sparking the penny press newspapers, with their obsession with crime and scandal, a tradition that continues to this day with such periodicals as National Enquirer.

The United States and the International Criminal Court (ICC) Essay

The United States and the International Criminal Court (ICC) Statement of Purpose This paper will clearly lay out the Unites States concerns with the International Criminal Court and will attempt to resolve them. I will then argue that no country has the right to be above international law, including the United States and that it is in the best interest of America and the world community for the united states to join the efforts of the ICC and sign the Rome Statute. Introduction to the ICC â€Å"In the prospect of an international criminal court lies the promise of universal justice. That is the simple and soaring hope of this vision. We are close to its realization. We will do our part to see it through till the end. We ask you...to do yours in our struggle to ensure that no ruler, no State, no junta and no army anywhere can abuse human rights with impunity. Only then will the innocents of distant wars and conflicts know that they, too, may sleep under the cover of justice; that they, too, have rights, and that those who violate thus rights will be punished.† Kofi Annan, UN Secretary-General The Twentieth Century was the bloodiest in record history with over 174 million people killed in mass murders and genocides; more often then not, victims’ cries went unanswered. Following World War II the United Nations realized the need to take action in ending impunity from these horrible crimes against humanity. With one of the primary objectives of the United Nations being to secure â€Å"universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals throughout the world,† the United Nations recognized the need to establish an international criminal court. In 1948, at the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the ... ...xisNexis. November 3, 2003. http://web.lexis-nexis.com/universe/document? Davenport, David. â€Å"Commentary: New Threat to U.S. Sovereignty. United Press International.† August 2003. Lexis Nexis. December 3, 2003. http://web.lexis-nexis.com/universe/document? The Roman Statute of the ICC: Jurisdiction. November 3, 2002. Internet. http://www.icc.int/en/ICC_jurisdiction.html PIPA. Americas on Globalization: A Study of US Public Attitudes. International Cooperation. March 28, 2000. Internet. December 4, 2003. http://www.pipa.org/OnlineReports/Globalization/4.html PIPA. Americans on Globalization. All Notes. Question 83. December 2, 2003. Internet. http://www.pipa.org/OnlineReports/Globalization/notes/allnotes_.html Margrethe, Ellen. â€Å"U.S. Peacekeepers Integral and Prosecutable.† August 2002. LexisNexis. November 3, 2002. http://web.lexis-nexis.com/universe/document?

Newlywed Communication

Newlywed Communication Ashley Metz COM 200 Interpersonal Communication Instructor Tremika Pinckney December 10, 2012 Newlywed Communication Being married, like being a parent, is one of the most rewarding relationships that you can have in life. However, while being married to your best friend can be pure bliss, learning how to communicate and keep lines of communication open throughout your relationship can be tough. Something about having the same last name takes your once perfect dating relationship to a sea of misunderstandings and disagreements.As a newlywed myself, I can relate on these difficult times that occur during the first few months and even the first few years of marriage. There are certain principles you can follow to have effective communication, listening skills that you can learn, have an understanding of non-verbal communication, and realize how self-concept, and self-disclosure, can all play a vital role in your communication within your marriage.While communicat ion has occurred since the dawn of time, becoming an effective communicator really does take some skill and understanding of how interpersonal communication works. Understanding these concepts and skills, will help tremendously in those not so blissful points of marriage. â€Å"To become a more effective communicator, scholars would most likely agree that five specific aspects of interpersonal communication are crucial areas of focus† (Sole, 2011). These 5 skills are listening skills, people skills, emotional intelligence, appropriate skill selection, and communicating ethically.I am sure looking at this list you can pick out which of these skills you think you possess over another, but the key to interpersonal communication is honing in all of these skills and using them together and at the appropriate times. Now let us break each of these skills down and concentrate on the key concepts of each skill. Listening, this is more than just sound waves bouncing through our ear can al, to be in affective listener â€Å"requires focus and attention† (Sole, 2011). A lot of people hear without actually listening.I know that there have been many times that my husband and I were having a discussion and I could hear what he was saying, meaning I knew he was talking and I could hear the words that were coming out of his mouth, but I was not listening to what he was actually saying. Once I stopped and actually listened to what he had to say, we were able to resolve the conflict we were having. People skills, also plays a role in communication, however people skills is a collaborative use of many different skills like problem solving and appropriate self-disclosure.Emotional intelligence is probably the easiest to understand but the hardest to apply in interpersonal communication, for me at least. To be emotionally intelligent is to understand how and when to express certain emotions in given situations. For me, I am very passionate about most things in my life, and when I have an idea or thought, or even problem, I want to get it out in the open as fast as possible. When someone does not agree with me, is upset with me, or even does agree with me, you can see my emotions in my face, hear them in my voice, and can tell by my overall attitude.While in my working relationships this sometimes has posed a problem, I believe in a marriage it is very important to share your emotions with each other, and keeping in mind of the emotions of one another. In a marriage I believe to be emotionally intelligent means to have the ability to express how you feel about something to your spouse, as well as being able to relate to the emotions of your spouse. Appropriate skill selection means that you can recognize a problem in communication and then affectively solving the problem.Finally, communicating ethically, varies in meaning from person to person, as one person’s set of ethics may not be the same as another person’s, however in general to communicate ethically means to keep your own ethics, morals, values, and beliefs in mind while communicating. Speak with a purpose, and let your ethics guide you in not only what you convey when you speak but how you convey it as well. In a relationship it is easy to point out what the other person is doing wrong and how he or she fails to communicate.It is important to take a look inward and realize how you can grow and realize what you can work on too, in order to increase effective communication in your relationship. This may be a hard pill to swallow, but you are not perfect, and realizing that, accepting it, and admitting to imperfection will strongly help any relationship. I think that everyone could agree that listening is equally important, if not more important, as talking. Realizing when we are hearing conversation rather than listening to a conversation will help make the messenger feel like you the receiver not only understands what they are saying, but cares about wh at is being said. I know as a woman, when I feel like my husband is tuning me out, it hurts and I take it much more personal, than if he were listening to me and then not saying anything. â€Å"Listening involves hearing, but it is much more than just the physiological act of your ears perceiving a sound and transmitting the auditory sensation to your brain.Listening is a complex psychological process that can be defined as the process of physically hearing, interpreting that sound, and understanding the significance of it† (Sole, 2011). There are many aspects of being a good listener which we all start to learn in the early years of education, but as adults we tend to tune out, those that boar us or that we feel is unimportant. The first of the many characteristics of being a good listener is a motivation or willingness to listen. You have to make a conscious decision that you are going to listen to the speaker, with an open mind and an eagerness to hear what he has to say.I know this sounds completely cliche but you need to make a â€Å"safe† environment for your spouse so they not only want to talk to you but they feel that they can talk to you and be heard. This was a big concept that both my husband and I had to learn in the first few months of our marriage, and quite frankly, it is something that we are still working on. My husband is a quiet person, and he does not let a lot of things get under his skin. When something does start to bother him he tends to hold it in, and then all at once, it is like a bomb went off and he explodes.For me, it made it hard to talk to him about anything, because he did not want to talk about it or did not have much of an opinion on the subject. When I would ask if something was bugging him, he would say nothing until that bomb went off. Because of this ticking time bomb that I felt would go off at any moment it made it very hard for me to come to my husband when I had something I wanted to talk about. So whil e he was not making a safe environment for me to come and talk to him, I in turn, was not making a safe environment for him either. He felt like when we did talk, I was not actually listening to him, and only wanted things my way.I was not allowing him to feel like he could come and talk to me, so he did not do so. Once we got this out on the table, it made our communication much more effective. Crossing your arms, rolling your eyes, tapping your foot, these are all ways that we can communicate with other people without words even coming out of our mouths. We send off a vibe through our body language that can let a person know how we are feeling without saying anything, or a person can misunderstand a vibe that you may not be giving off, but because you are unaware of your body language you do not realize it. Research shows that 55% of communication is conveyed by the body language we use, that is use of eye contact, gestures, and facial expressions. 38% is conveyed through voice, i ts quality, use of tone, and inflections. Only 7% is conveyed in the words we use† (Makodia, 2009, p. 6). When the first few issues arose in my marriage, we would try and have a conversation to work these issues out. My husband is not one to convey his feelings very well verbally. To be honest, it is much easier to talk about things with him via email or even text message.When we would talk with each other he was the king of just blankly staring at me with his arms crossed, while I was speaking. This infuriated me. It made it impossible to talk to him and I would end the conversation and nothing would get solved. As you can see, sometimes it is not even what you say, not how you say it, but the way you use your hands, your face, your entire body to convey a message. A simple smile can take a conversation from stagnant and cold, to warm and understanding.When talking out a disagreement, try smiling and talking about it, that alone can turn the entire vibe of the relationship an d you may get further than using cold gestures, like crossed hands or a mean scowl. Going back to what I stated before about creating a â€Å"safe† environment for your spouse is key to having effective communication. When you have a harsh body language, you can make yourself come across unapproachable where as if you keep your body language carefree, it can make it easier for your significant other to bring up a situation.In understanding communication, and how your spouse communicates with you, you must understand yourself and why you are the way you are. For example, growing up I was always getting in trouble for my siblings mistakes. As the oldest child I picked up the heat for almost everything. Now as an adult, I can come off very offensive if someone accuses me of something I felt that I did not do. When I could understand there was a reason for me getting on the defense it helped my husband understand how to approach topics that I might react in a negative way about. Self-concept is comprised of relatively permanent self-assessments, such as personality attributes, knowledge of one’s skills and abilities, one’s occupation and hobbies, and awareness of one’s physical attributes. † (Sinha, 2009, p. 2) Being aware of one’s self not only will help in learning and grasping the concepts of interpersonal communication, it will also help you understand why it is that you communicate the way you do and allow you to let your spouse know why you are the way you are.As I stated before, once the title of your relationship changes from engaged to married, it seems that things may change drastically. Living together creates a whole different slew of problems. Having children creates another chapter of problems. Life happens, and it is only natural that you and your spouse are going to disagree on these subjects, but knowing how to overcome disagreements, and how to convey your point in an effective way, makes all the differenc e. As humans we grow, change, evolve every day.Our interests change, our hobbies vary, and if you are anything like me, you have a new favorite color every season. When a couple first starts dating the best ways they start to understand and get to know each other is by self-disclosure. Self-disclosure is asking and answering questions like â€Å" What is your favorite movie? †, â€Å"Where do you see yourself in 2 years, 5 years, 10 years? †. Questions like this help one another learn, understand, and is a big part of communication in a relationship no matter how new or how old. Quality communication is defined somewhat differently from study to study, but research consistently has shown a link between happy marriages and â€Å"self-disclosure,† or sharing your private feelings, fears, doubts and perceptions with your partner† (Schoenberg, 2011). I have a running list of questions that I keep in the notes section of my phone. Every so often I go through th e list and ask my husband a few questions. This is either face to face, via text or email, or sometimes I ask in a letter that I write to him which I will slip into his lunch. It is not once a week or even once a month.Just when I think about it, or once a year, we talk about our goals that we would like to accomplish for the year and how we can reach these goals. This year or goals are to put at least $5000 into savings, and pay off all of our credit card debt. Keeping in mind that we are ever-changing as humans, setting up a time where we ask our spouse these self-disclosure, types of questions, can greatly impact the quality of communication in your relationship as a whole. Focusing on quality rather than quantity of communication can aid in each other’s understanding of one another and how to effectively communicate.My husband is a Recruit Division Commander, which in not so many words means he is a Navy boot camp drill sergeant. This means that he is working from anywher e from 4am to 10pm, 7 days a week, for at least 13 weeks at a time. I have a full time job working 8am until 5pm and then come home to take care of our 1 year old. By the time 1030 rolls around and he walks through the front door we are both tired and ready for bed, but we make it a point to take 15 minutes, and unload about our days. These 15 minutes gives us enough time to connect with each other and get the important stuff out in the open.Now 15 minutes a day does not seem like a lot of time but it is the quality of our conversation that keeps us strong. This is what I mean about quality over quantity. The elements that create effective communication, listening, non-verbal communication, self-concept, and self-disclosure are all part of becoming an effective communicator in any interpersonal relationship, but especially with your spouse. Understanding these concepts will help you not only know yourself and how to improve your own communication skills but also understand your spou se and how they communicate.It will not always be a cake walk, but when applying the skills I have outlined, it can get better. Communication is key, when life starts getting in the way, just 15 minutes of quality communication every day can go a long way. References: Makodia, V. V. (2009). Role of Body Language in Communication. Jaipur, IND: Paradise Publishers. Sinha, D. S. (2009). Personal Growth and Training and Development. Lucknow, IND: Word-press. Sole, K. (2011). Making connections: Understanding interpersonal communication. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc.

Sat and Adj

sat vocabulary words The 5000 words below, with brief definitions, are free for individual and classroom use. These words are also downloadable from Texas Instruments in a format for some Texas Instruments calculators. A small-print, PDF version (Free) is good for printing and annotating. Alphabetical list shows definitions, differences (aggravate, aggregate) and similarities (bibliography, bibliophile) at-a-glance for easy review. Sound Smarter and Be Smarter Understand more words to improve reading comprehension & grades. Speak and write more accurately, persuasively, and impressively. This site is a by-product of my SAT test prep teaching in Montgomery County, Maryland. In Montgomery County, MD? Click here for help. Free at the bottom of this page: my SAT Test Math Notes (scroll down) (below vocabulary)  © 2010 EEENI Inc. Nonprofit. Steve Baba, Ph. D. â€Å"I went from a 500 to a 750 thanks to your online list. † SAT test student Recommended and used by hundreds of teachers and schools #1   More Vocabulary Words than other vocabulary lists |[pic]All You Have To Do Is Listen 5,000 Vocabulary Words on 7 audio CDs Upgrade Your Vocabulary and Math to Upgrade Your School, Career and Life Listen To: MP3 Sample  Ã‚   or Real Player Sample 1,   2,   3 7 one-hour CDs + two-hour DVD   $49. 95 + Digital Copy. First-Class Mail $5. Same-day Shipping Sale $29. 95   Order Now! Professionally-read, audio CD edition of the 5000 words. Learn 5000 definitions and correct pronunciations by listening, the natural and effective way. Listen while exercising, driving, doing chores, online†¦ No book or printed text lets you hear. Digital Copy: MP3/MPEG2,  sold with CDs to ensure easy use   Not Copy Protected. Download After CDs/DVD Purchase   22MB, compressed RAR files: Vocab CD1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7   SAT math 87MB hour 1, 2, may need free VLC Media Player |+   SAT TEST MATH Seminar complete edition of $120 live class 1. Watch Math Problems Solved   Step-By-Step 2. Practice, Prep 3. Ace SAT math Seminar Math Problems PDF – Free Learn 2 or 3 ways to solve: shortcut+backup 2-hour TV DVD Uses my below SAT math notes, my best tips from 10-years teaching | |abase v. To lower in position, estimation, or the like; degrade. abbey n. The group of buildings which collectively form the dwelling-place of a society of monks or nuns. Free SAT prep math notes below vocabulary v abbot n. The superior of a community of monks. abdicate v. To give up (royal power or the like). abdomen n. In mammals, the visceral cavity between the diaphragm and the pelvic floor; the belly. abdominal n. Of, pertaining to, or situated on the abdomen. abduction n. A carrying away of a person against his will, or illegally. abed adv. In bed; on a bed. aberration n. Deviation from a right, customary, or prescribed course. abet v. To aid, promote, or encourage the commission of (an offense). abeyance n. A state of suspension or temporary inaction. abhorrence n. The act of detesting extremely. bhorrent adj. Very repugnant; hateful. abidance n. An abiding. abject adj. Sunk to a low condition. abjure v. To recant, renounce, repudiate under oath. able-bodied adj. Competent for physical service. ablution n. A washing or cleansing, especially of the body. abnegate v. To renounce (a right or privilege). abnormal adj. Not conformed to the ordinary rule or standard. abominable adj. Very hateful. abominate v. To hate violently. abomination n. A very detestable act or practice. aboriginal adj. Primitive; unsophisticated. aborigines n. The original of earliest known inhabitants of a country. aboveboard adv. & adj. Without concealment, fraud, or trickery. abrade v. To wear away the surface or some part of by friction. abrasion n. That which is rubbed off. abridge v. To make shorter in words, keeping the essential features, leaning out minor particles. abridgment n. A condensed form as of a book or play. abrogate v. To abolish, repeal. abrupt adj. Beginning, ending, or changing suddenly or with a break. abscess n. A Collection of pus in a cavity formed within some tissue of the body. abscission n. The act of cutting off, as in a surgical operation. abscond v. To depart suddenly and secretly, as for the purpose of escaping arrest. absence n. The fact of not being present or available. absent-minded adj. Lacking in attention to immediate surroundings or business. absolution n. Forgiveness, or passing over of offenses. absolve v. To free from sin or its penalties. absorb v. To drink in or suck up, as a sponge absorbs water. absorption n. The act or process of absorbing. abstain v. To keep oneself back (from doing or using something). abstemious adj. Characterized by self denial or abstinence, as in the use of drink, food. abstinence n. Self denial. abstruse adj. Dealing with matters difficult to be understood. absurd adj. Inconsistent with reason or common sense. bundant adj. Plentiful. abusive adj. Employing harsh words or ill treatment. abut v. To touch at the end or boundary line. abyss n. Bottomless gulf. academic adj. Of or pertaining to an academy, college, or university. academician n. A member of an academy of literature, art, or science. academy n. Any institution where the higher branches of learning are taught. accede v. To agree. accelerate v. To move faster. accept v. To take when offered. access n. A way of approach or entrance; passage. accessible adj. Approachable. accession n. Induction or elevation, as to dignity, office, or government. ccessory n. A person or thing that aids the principal agent. acclaim v. To utter with a shout. accommodate v. To furnish something as a kindness or favor. accompaniment n. A subordinate part or parts, enriching or supporting the leading part. accompanist n. One who or that which accompanies. accompany v. To go with, or be associated with, as a companion. accomplice n. An associate in wrong-doing. accomplish v. To bring to pass. accordion n. A portable free-reed musical instrument. accost v. To speak to. account n. A record or statement of receipts and expenditures, or of business transactions. accouter v. To dress. accredit v. To give credit or authority to. accumulate v. To become greater in quantity or number. accuracy n. Exactness. accurate adj. Conforming exactly to truth or to a standard. accursed adj. Doomed to evil, misery, or misfortune. accusation n. A charge of crime, misdemeanor, or error. accusatory adj. Of, pertaining to, or involving an accusation. accuse v. To charge with wrong doing, misconduct, or error. accustom v. To make familiar by use. acerbity n. Sourness, with bitterness and astringency. acetate n. A salt of acetic acid. acetic adj. Of, pertaining to, or of the nature of vinegar. che v. To be in pain or distress. Achillean adj. Invulnerable. achromatic adj. Colorless, acid n. A sour substance. acidify v. To change into acid. acknowledge v. To recognize; to admit the genuineness or validity of. acknowledgment n. Recognition. acme n. The highest point, or summit. acoustic adj. Pertaining to the act or sense of hearing. acquaint v. To make familiar or conversant. acquiesce v. To comply; submit. acquiescence n. Passive consent. acquire v. To get as one's own. acquisition n. Anything gained, or made one's own, usually by effort or labor. acquit v. To free or clear, as from accusation. cquittal n. A discharge from accusation by judicial action. acquittance n. Release or discharge from indebtedness, obligation, or responsibility. acreage n. Quantity or extent of land, especially of cultivated land. acrid adj. Harshly pungent or bitter. acrimonious adj. Full of bitterness. acrimony n. Sharpness or bitterness of speech or temper. actionable adj. Affording cause for instituting an action, as trespass, slanderous words. actuality n. Any reality. actuary n. An officer, as of an insurance company, who calculates and states the risks and premiums. actuate v. To move or incite to action. acumen n. Quickness of intellectual insight, or discernment; keenness of discrimination. acute adj. Having fine and penetrating discernment. adamant n. Any substance of exceeding hardness or impenetrability. addendum n. Something added, or to be added. addle v. To make inefficient or worthless; muddle. adduce v. To bring forward or name for consideration. adhere v. To stick fast or together. adherence n. Attachment. adherent adj. Clinging or sticking fast. adhesion n. The state of being attached or joined. adieu inter. Good-by; farewell. adjacency n. The state of being adjacent. adjacent n. That which is near or bordering upon. djudge v. To award or bestow by formal decision. adjunct n. Something joined to or connected with another thing, but holding a subordinate place. adjuration n. A vehement appeal. adjutant adj. Auxiliary. administrator n. One who manages affairs of any kind. admissible adj. Having the right or privilege of entry. admittance n. Entrance, or the right or permission to ente r. admonish v. To warn of a fault. admonition n. Gentle reproof. ado n. unnecessary activity or ceremony. adoration n. Profound devotion. adroit adj. Having skill in the use of the bodily or mental powers. adulterant n. An adulterating substance. dulterate v. To make impure by the admixture of other or baser ingredients. adumbrate v. To represent beforehand in outline or by emblem. advent n. The coming or arrival, as of any important change, event, state, or personage. adverse adj. Opposing or opposed. adversity n. Misfortune. advert v. To refer incidentally. advertiser n. One who advertises, especially in newspapers. advisory adj. Not mandatory. advocacy n. The act of pleading a cause. advocate n. One who pleads the cause of another, as in a legal or ecclesiastical court. aerial adj. Of, pertaining to, or like the air. aeronaut n. One who navigates the air, a balloonist. aeronautics n. the art or practice of flying aircraft aerostat n. A balloon or other apparatus floating in or sustained by the air. aerostatics n. The branch of pneumatics that treats of the equilibrium, pressure, and mechanical properties. affable adj. Easy to approach. affect v. To act upon affectation n. A studied or ostentatious pretense or attempt. affiliate n. Some auxiliary person or thing. affirmative adj. Answering yes; to a question at issue. affix v. To fasten. affluence n. A profuse or abundant supply of riches. affront n. An open insult or indignity. fire adv. & adj. On fire, literally or figuratively. afoot adv. In progress. aforesaid adj. Said in a preceding part or before. afresh adv. Once more, after rest or interval. afterthought n. A thought that comes later than its appropriate or expected time. agglomerate v. To pile or heap together. aggrandize v. To cause to appear greatly. aggravate v. To make heavier, worse, or more bu rdensome. aggravation n. The fact of being made heavier or more heinous, as a crime , offense, misfortune, etc. aggregate n. The entire number, sum, mass, or quantity of something. aggress v. To make the first attack. aggression n. An unprovoked attack. aggrieve v. To give grief or sorrow to. aghast adj. Struck with terror and amazement. agile adj. Able to move or act quickly, physically, or mentally. agitate v. To move or excite (the feelings or thoughts). agrarian adj. Pertaining to land, especially agricultural land. aide-de-camp n. An officer who receives and transmits the orders of the general. ailment n. Slight sickness. airy adj. Delicate, ethereal. akin adj. Of similar nature or qualities. alabaster n. A white or delicately tinted fine-grained gypsum. alacrity n. Cheerful willingness. albeit conj. Even though. albino n. A person with milky white skin and hair, and eyes with bright red pupil and usually pink iris. album n. A book whose leaves are so made to form paper frames for holding photographs or the like. alchemy n. Chemistry of the middle ages, characterized by the pursuit of changing base metals to gold. alcohol n. A volatile, inflammable, colorless liquid of a penetrating odor and burning taste. alcoholism n. A condition resulting from the inordinate or persistent use of alcoholic beverages. alcove n. A covered recess connected with or at the side of a larger room. alder n. Any shrub or small tree of the genus Alumnus, of the oak family. alderman n. A member of a municipal legislative body, who usually exercises also certain judicial functions. aldermanship n. The dignity, condition, office, or term of office of an alderman. alias n. An assumed name. alien n. One who owes allegiance to a foreign government. alienable adj. Capable of being aliened or alienated, as lands. alienate v. To cause to turn away. alienation n. Estrangement. aliment n. That which nourishes. alkali n. Anything that will neutralize an acid, as lime, magnesia, etc. allay v. To calm the violence or reduce the intensity of; mitigate. allege v. To assert to be true, especially in a formal manner, as in court. llegory n. The setting forth of a subject under the guise of another subject of aptly suggestive likeness. alleviate v. To make less burdensome or less hard to bear. alley n. A narrow street, garden path, walk, or the like. alliance n. Any combination or union for some common purpose. allot v. To assign a definite thing or part to a certain person. allotme nt n. Portion. allude v. To refer incidentally, or by suggestion. allusion n. An indirect and incidental reference to something without definite mention of it. alluvion n. Flood. ally n. A person or thing connected with another, usually in some relation of helpfulness. lmanac n. A series of tables giving the days of the week together with certain astronomical information. aloof adv. Not in sympathy with or desiring to associate with others. altar n. Any raised place or structure on which sacrifices may be offered or incense burned. alter v. To make change in. alteration n. Change or modification. altercate v. To contend angrily or zealously in words. alternate n. One chosen to act in place of another, in case of the absence or incapacity of that other. alternative n. Something that may or must exist, be taken or chosen, or done instead of something else. altitude n. Vertical distance or elevation above any point or base-level, as the sea. alto n. The lowest or deepest female voice or part. altruism n. Benevolence to others on subordination to self-interest. altruist n. One who advocates or practices altruism. amalgam n. An alloy or union of mercury with another metal. amalgamate v. To mix or blend together in a homogeneous body. amateur adj. Practicing an art or occupation for the love of it, but not as a profession. amatory adj. Designed to excite love. ambidextrous adj. Having the ability of using both hands with equal skill or ease. ambiguous adj. Having a double meaning. ambitious adj. Eagerly desirous and aspiring. ambrosial adj. Divinely sweet, fragrant, or delicious. ambulance n. A vehicle fitted for conveying the sick and wounded. ambulate v. To walk about ambush n. The act or state of lying concealed for the purpose of surprising or attacking the enemy. ameliorate v. To relieve, as from pain or hardship amenable adj. Willing and ready to submit. Americanism n. A peculiar sense in which an English word or phrase is used in the United States. amicable adj. Done in a friendly spirit. amity n. Friendship. amorous adj. Having a propensity for falling in love. amorphous adj. Without determinate shape. mour n. A love-affair, especially one of an illicit nature. ampere n. The practical unit of electric-current strength. ampersand n. The character &; and. amphibious adj. Living both on land and in water. amphitheater n. An edifice of elliptical shape, constructed about a central open space or arena. amplitude n. Largeness. amply adv. Sufficiently. amputate v. To remove by cutting, as a limb or some portion of the body. amusement n. Diversion. anachronism n. Anything occurring or existing out of its proper time. anagram n. The letters of a word or phrase so transposed as to make a different word or phrase. nalogous adj. Corresponding (to some other) in certain respects, as in form, proportion, relations. analogy n. Reasoning in which from certain and known relations or resemblance others are formed. analyst n. One who analyzes or makes use of the analytical method. analyze v. To examine minutely or critically. anarchy n. Absence or utter disregard of government. anathema n. Anything forbidden, as by social usage. anatomy n. That branch of morphology which treats of the structure of organisms. ancestry n. One's ancestors collectively. anecdote n. A brief account of some interesting event or incident. anemia n. Deficiency of blood or red corpuscles. anemic adj. Affected with anemia. anemometer n. An instrument for measuring the force or velocity of wind. anesthetic adj. Pertaining to or producing loss of sensation. anew adv. Once more. angelic adj. Saintly. Anglophobia n. Hatred or dread of England or of what is English. Anglo-Saxon n. The entire English race wherever found, as in Europe, the United States, or India. angular adj. Sharp-cornered. anhydrous adj. Withered. animadversion n. The utterance of criticism or censure. animadvert v. To pass criticism or censure. animalcule n. An animal of microscopic smallness. animate v. To make alive. animosity n. Hatred. annalist n. Historian. annals n. A record of events in their chronological order, year by year. annex v. To add or affix at the end. annihilate v. To destroy absolutely. annotate v. To make explanatory or critical notes on or upon. annual adj. Occurring every year. annuity n. An annual allowance, payment, or income. annunciation n. Proclamation. anode n. The point where or path by which a voltaic current enters an electrolyte or the like. anonymous adj. Of unknown authorship. antagonism n. Mutual opposition or resistance of counteracting forces, principles, or persons. Antarctic adj. Pertaining to the south pole or the regions near it. ante v. In the game of poker, to put up a stake before the cards are dealt. antecede v. To precede. antecedent n. One who or that which precedes or goes before, as in time, place, rank, order, or causality. antechamber n. A waiting room for those who seek audience. antedate v. To assign or affix a date to earlier than the actual one. antediluvian adj. Of or pertaining to the times, things, events before the great flood in the days of Noah. antemeridian adj. Before noon. antemundane adj. Pertaining to time before the world's creation. antenatal adj. Occurring or existing before birth. nterior adj. Prior. anteroom n. A room situated before and opening into another, usually larger. anthology n. A collection of extracts from the writings of various authors. anthracite n. Hard coal. anthropology n. The science of man in general. anthropomorphous adj. Having or resembling human form. antic n. A grotesque, ludicrous, or fantastic action. Antichrist n. Any opponent or enemy of Christ, whether a person or a power. anticlimax n. A gradual or sudden decrease in the importance or impressiveness of what is said. anticyclone n. An atmospheric condition of high central pressure, with currents flowing outward. ntidote n. Anything that will counteract or remove the effects of poison, disease, or the like. antilogy n. Inconsistency or contradiction in terms or ideas. antipathize v. To show or feel a feeling of antagonism, aversion, or dislike. antiphon n. A response or alteration of responses, generally musical. antiphony n. An anthem or other composition sung responsively. antipodes n. A place or region on the opposite side of the earth. antiquary n. One who collects and examines old things, as coins, books, medals, weapons, etc. antiquate v. To make old or out of date. antique adj. Pertaining to ancient times. ntiseptic n. Anything that destroys or restrains the growth of putrefactive micro-organisms. antislavery adj. Oppose d to human slavery. antispasmodic adj. Tending to prevent or relieve non-inflammatory spasmodic affections. antistrophe n. The inversion of terms in successive classes, as in â€Å"the home of joy and the joy of home†. antitoxin n. A substance which neutralizes the poisonous products of micro-organisms. antonym n. A word directly opposed to another in meaning. anxious adj. Distressed in mind respecting some uncertain matter. apathy n. Insensibility to emotion or passionate feeling. aperture n. Hole. apex n. The highest point, as of a mountain. aphorism n. Proverb. apiary n. A place where bees are kept. apogee n. The climax. apology n. A disclaimer of intentional error or offense. apostasy n. A total departure from one's faith or religion. apostate adj. False. apostle n. Any messenger commissioned by or as by divine authority. apothecary n. One who keeps drugs for sale and puts up prescriptions. apotheosis n. Deification. appall v. To fill with dismay or horror. apparent adj. Easily understood. apparition n. Ghost. appease v. To soothe by quieting anger or indignation. appellate adj. Capable of being appealed to. ppellation n. The name or title by which a particular person, class, or thing is called. append v. To add or attach, as something accessory, subordinate, or supplementary. appertain v. To belong, as by right, fitness, association, classification, possession, or natural relation. apposite adj. Appropriate. apposition n. The act of placing side by side, together, or in contact. ap praise v. To estimate the money value of. appreciable adj. Capable of being discerned by the senses or intellect. apprehend v. To make a prisoner of (a person) in the name of the law. apprehensible adj. Capable of being conceived. approbation n. Sanction. appropriate adj. Suitable for the purpose and circumstances. aqueduct n. A water-conduit, particularly one for supplying a community from a distance. aqueous adj. Of, pertaining to, or containing water. arbiter n. One chosen or appointed, by mutual consent of parties in dispute, to decide matters. arbitrary adj. Fixed or done capriciously. arbitrate v. To act or give judgment as umpire. arbor n. A tree. arboreal adj. Of or pertaining to a tree or trees. arborescent adj. Having the nature of a tree. arboretum n. A botanical garden or place devoted to the cultivation of trees or shrubs. arboriculture n. The cultivation of trees or shrubs. arcade n. A vaulted passageway or street; a roofed passageway having shops, etc. , opening from it. archaic adj. Antiquated archaism n. Obsolescence. archangel n. An angel of high rank. archbishop n. The chief of the bishops of an ecclesiastical province in the Greek, Roman, and Anglican church. archdeacon n. A high official administrator of the affairs of a diocese. archaeology n. The branch of anthropology concerned with the systematic investigation of the relics of man. archetype n. A prototype. archipelago n. Any large body of water studded with islands, or the islands collectively themselves. rdent adj. Burning with passion. ardor n. Intensity of passion or affection. arid adj. Very dry. aristocracy n. A hereditary nobility aristocrat n. A hereditary noble or one nearly connected with nobility. armada n. A fleet of war-vessels. armful n. As much as can be held in the arm or arms. armory n. An arsenal. aroma n. An agreeable odor. arraign v. To call into court, as a person indicted for crime, and demand whether he pleads guilty or not. arrange v. To put in definite or proper order. arrangement n. The act of putting in proper order, or the state of being put in order. arrant adj. Notoriously bad. arrear n. Something overdue and unpaid. arrival n. A coming to stopping-place or destination. arrogant adj. Unduly or excessively proud, as of wealth, station, learning, etc. arrogate v. To take, demand, or claim, especially presumptuously or without reasons or grounds. Artesian well n. A very deep bored well. water rises due to underground pressure artful adj. Characterized by craft or cunning. Arthurian adj. Pertaining to King Arthur, the real or legendary hero of British poetic story. artifice n. Trickery. artless adj. Ingenuous. ascendant adj. Dominant. ascension n. The act of rising. ascent n. A rising, soaring, or climbing. ascetic adj. Given to severe self-denial and practicing excessive abstinence and devotion. ascribe v. To assign as a quality or attribute. asexual adj. Having no distinct sexual organs. ashen adj. Pale. askance adv. With a side or indirect glance or meaning. asperity n. Harshness or roughness of temper. aspirant n. One who seeks earnestly, as for advancement, honors, place. aspiration n. An earnest wish for that which is above one's present reach. aspire v. To have an earnest desire, wish, or longing, as for something high and good, not yet attained. assailant n. One who attacks. assassin n. One who kills, or tries to kill, treacherously or secretly. ssassinate v. To kill, as by surprise or secret assault, especially the killing of some eminent person. assassination n. Murderer, as by secret assault or treachery. assay n. The chemical analysis or testing of an alloy ore. assent v. To express agreement with a statement or matter of opinion. assess v. To determine the amount of (a tax or other sum to be paid). assessor n. An officer whose duty it is to assess taxes. assets n. pl. Property in general, regarded as applicable to the payment of debts. assiduous adj. Diligent. assignee n. One who is appointed to act for another in the management of certain property and interests. ssimilate v. To adapt. assonance n. Resemblance or correspondence in sound. assonant adj. Having resemblance of sound. assonate v. To accord in sound, especially vowel sound. assuage v. To cause to be less harsh, violent, or severe, as excitement, appetite, pain, or disease. astringent adj. Harsh in disposition or character. astute adj. Keen in discernment. atheism n. The denial of the existence of God. athirst adj. Wanting water. athwart adv. From side to side. atomizer n. An apparatus for reducing a liquid to a fine spray, as for disinfection, inhalation, etc. atone v. To make amends for. atonement n. Amends, reparation, or expiation made from wrong or injury. atrocious adj. Outrageously or wantonly wicked, criminal, vile, or cruel. atrocity n. Great cruelty or reckless wickedness. attache n. A subordinate member of a diplomatic embassy. attest v. To certify as accurate, genuine, or true. attorney-general n. The chief law-officer of a government. auburn adj. Reddish-brown, said usually of the hair. audacious adj. Fearless. audible adj. Loud enough to be heard. audition n. The act or sensation of hearing. auditory adj. Of or pertaining to hearing or the organs or sense of hearing. augment v. To make bigger. augur v. To predict. Augustinian adj. Pertaining to St. Augustine, his doctrines, or the religious orders called after him. aura n. Pervasive psychic influence supposed to emanate from persons aural adj. Of or pertaining to the ear. auricle n. One of the two chambers of the heart which receives the blood from the veins. auricular adj. Of or pertaining to the ear, its auricle, or the sense of hearing. auriferous adj. Containing gold. aurora n. A luminous phenomenon in the upper regions of the atmosphere. auspice n. favoring, protecting, or propitious influence or guidance. austere adj. Severely simple; unadorned. autarchy n. Unrestricted power. authentic adj. Of undisputed origin. authenticity n. The state or quality of being genuine, or of the origin and authorship claimed. autobiography n. The story of one's life written by himself. autocracy n. Absolute government. autocrat n. Any one who claims or wields unrestricted or undisputed authority or influence. automaton n. Any living being whose actions are or appear to be involuntary or mechanical. autonomous adj. Self-governing. autonomy n. Self-government. autopsy n. The examination of a dead body by dissection to ascertain the cause of death. autumnal adj. Of or pertaining to autumn. auxiliary n. One who or that which aids or helps, especially when regarded as subsidiary or accessory. avalanche n. The fall or sliding of a mass of snow or ice down a mountain-slope, often bearing with it rock. avarice n. Passion for getting and keeping riches. aver v. To assert as a fact. averse adj. Reluctant. aversion n. A mental condition of fixed opposition to or dislike of some particular thing. avert v. To turn away or aside. aviary n. A spacious cage or enclosure in which live birds are kept. avidity n. Greediness. avocation n. Diversion. avow v. To declare openly. awaken v. To arouse, as emotion, interest, or the like. awry adv. & adj. Out of the proper form, direction, or position. aye adv. An expression of assent. azalea n. A flowering shrub. azure n. The color of the sky. Baconian adj. Of or pertaining to Lord Bacon or his system of philosophy. bacterium n. A microbe. badger v. To pester. baffle v. To foil or frustrate. bailiff n. An officer of court having custody of prisoners under arraignment. baize n. A single-colored napped woolen fabric used for table-covers, curtains, etc. bale n. A large package prepared for transportation or storage. baleful adj. Malignant. ballad n. Any popular narrative poem, often with epic subject and usually in lyric form. balsam n. A medical preparation, aromatic and oily, used for healing. banal adj. Commonplace. barcarole n. A boat-song of Venetian gondoliers. barograph n. An instrument that registers graphically and continuously the atmospheric pressure. barometer n. An instrument for indicating the atmospheric pressure per unit of surface. barring prep. Apart from. baritone adj. Having a register higher than bass and lower than tenor. bask v. To make warm by genial heat. bass adj. Low in tone or compass. baste v. To cover with melted fat, gravy, while cooking. baton n. An official staff borne either as a weapon or as an emblem of authority or privilege. attalion n. A body of infantry composed of two or more companies, forming a part of a regiment. batten n. A narrow strip of wood. batter n. A thick liquid mixture of two or more materials beaten together, to be used in cookery. bauble n. A trinket. bawl v. To proclaim by outcry. beatify v. To make supremely happy. beatitude n. Any state of great happiness. b eau n. An escort or lover. becalm v. To make quiet. beck v. To give a signal to, by nod or gesture. bedaub v. To smear over, as with something oily or sticky. bedeck v. To cover with ornament. bedlam n. Madhouse. befog v. To confuse. befriend v. To be a friend to, especially when in need. beget v. To produce by sexual generation. begrudge v. To envy one of the possession of. belate v. To delay past the proper hour. belay v. To make fast, as a rope, by winding round a cleat. belie v. To misrepresent. believe v. To accept as true on the testimony or authority of others. belittle v. To disparage. belle n. A woman who is a center of attraction because of her beauty, accomplishments, etc. bellicose adj. Warlike. belligerent adj. Manifesting a warlike spirit. bemoan v. To lament benediction n. a solemn invocation of the divine blessing. benefactor n. A doer of kindly and charitable acts. benefice n. A church office endowed with funds or property for the maintenance of divine service. beneficent adj. Characterized by charity and kindness. beneficial adj. Helpful. beneficiary n. One who is lawfully entitled to the profits and proceeds of an estate or property. benefit n. Helpful result. benevolence n. Any act of kindness or well-doing. benevolent adj. Loving others and actively desirous of their well-being. benign adj. Good and kind of heart. benignant adj. Benevolent in feeling, character, or aspect. benignity n. Kindness of feeling, disposition, or manner. benison n. Blessing. bequeath v. To give by will. bereave v. To make desolate with loneliness and grief. berth n. A bunk or bed in a vessel, sleeping-car, etc. beseech v. To implore. beset v. To attack on all sides. besmear v. To smear over, as with any oily or sticky substance. bestial adj. Animal. bestrew v. To sprinkle or cover with things strewn. bestride v. To get or sit upon astride, as a horse. bethink v. To remind oneself. betide v. To happen to or befall. betimes adv. In good season or time. betroth v. To engage to marry. betrothal n. Engagement to marry. bevel n. Any inclination of two surfaces other than 90 degrees. ewilder v. To confuse the perceptions or judgment of. bibliomania n. The passion for collecting books. bibliography n. A list of the words of an author, or the literature bearing on a particular subject. bibliophile n. One who loves books. bibulous adj. Fond of drinking. bide v. To await. biennial n. A plant that produces leaves and roots the first year and flowers and fr uit the second. bier n. A horizontal framework with two handles at each end for carrying a corpse to the grave. bigamist n. One who has two spouses at the same time. bigamy n. The crime of marrying any other person while having a legal spouse living. ight n. A slightly receding bay between headlands, formed by a long curve of a coast-line. bilateral adj. Two-sided. bilingual adj. Speaking two languages. biograph n. A bibliographical sketch or notice. biography n. A written account of one's life, actions, and character. biology n. The science of life or living organisms. biped n. An animal having two feet. birthright n. A privilege or possession into which one is born. bitterness n. Acridity, as to the taste. blase adj. Sated with pleasure. blaspheme v. To indulge in profane oaths. blatant adj. Noisily or offensively loud or clamorous. blaze n. A vivid glowing flame. lazon v. To make widely or generally known. bleak adj. Desolate. blemish n. A mark that mars beauty. blithe adj. Joyou s. blithesome adj. Cheerful. blockade n. The shutting up of a town, a frontier, or a line of coast by hostile forces. boatswain n. A subordinate officer of a vessel, who has general charge of the rigging, anchors, etc. bodice n. A women's ornamental corset-shaped laced waist. bodily adj. Corporeal. boisterous adj. Unchecked merriment or animal spirits. bole n. The trunk or body of a tree. bolero n. A Spanish dance, illustrative of the passion of love, accompanied by caste nets and singing. boll n. A round pod or seed-capsule, as a flax or cotton. bolster v. To support, as something wrong. bomb n. A hollow projectile containing an explosive material. bombard v. To assail with any missile or with abusive speech. bombardier n. A person who has charge of mortars, bombs, and shells. bombast n. Inflated or extravagant language, especially on unimportant subjects. boorish adj. Rude. bore v. To weary by tediousness or dullness. borough n. An incorporated village or town. bosom n. The breast or the upper front of the thorax of a human being, especially of a woman. botanical adj. Connected with the study or cultivation of plants. botanize v. To study plant-life. botany n. The science that treats of plants. bountiful adj. Showing abundance. Bowdlerize v. To expurgate in editing (a literary composition) by omitting words or passages. bowler n. In cricket, the player who delivers the ball. boycott v. To place the products or merchandise of under a ban. brae n. Hillside. braggart n. A vain boaster. brandish v. To wave, shake, or flourish triumphantly or defiantly, as a sword or spear. bravado n. An aggressive display of boldness. bravo interj. Well done. bray n. A loud harsh sound, as the cry of an ass or the blast of a horn. braze v. To make of or ornament with brass. razier n. An open pan or basin for holding live coals. breach n. The violation of official duty, lawful right, or a legal obligation. breaker n. One who trains horses, dogs, etc. breech n. The buttocks. brethren n. pl. Members of a brotherhood, gild, profession, association, or the like. brevity n. Shortness of duration. bric-a-brac n. Objects of curiosity or for decoration. bridle n. The head-harness of a horse consisting of a head-stall, a bit, and the reins. brigade n. A body of troops consisting of two or more regiments. brigadier n. General officer who commands a brigade, ranking between a colonel and a major-general. rigand n. One who lives by robbery and plunder. brimstone n. Sulfur. brine n. Water saturated with salt. bristle n. One of the coarse, stiff hairs of swine: used in brush-making, etc. Britannia n. The United Kingdom of Great Britain. Briticism n. A word, idiom, or phrase characteristic of Great Britain or the British. brittle adj. Fragile. broach v. To mention, for the first time. broadcast adj. Disseminated far and wide. brogan n. A coarse, heavy shoe. brogue n. Any dialectic pronunciation of English, especially that of the Irish people. brokerage n. The business of making sales and purchases for a commission; a broker. romine n. A dark reddish-brown, non-metallic liquid element with a suffocating odor. bronchitis n. Inflammation of the bronchial tubes. bronchus n. Either of the two subdivisions of the trachea conveying air into the lungs. brooch n. An article of jewelry fastened by a hinged pin and hook on the underside. brotherhood n. Spiritual or social fellowship or solidarity. browbeat v. To overwhelm, or attempt to do so, by stern, haughty, or rude address or manner. brusque adj. Somewhat rough or rude in manner or speech. buffoon n. A clown. buffoonery n. Low drollery, coarse jokes, etc. bulbous adj. Of, or pertaining to, or like a bulb. ullock n. An ox. bulrush n. Any one of various tall rush-like plants growing in damp ground or water. bulwark n. Anything that gives security or defense. bumper n. A cup or glass filled to the brim, especially one to be drunk as a toast or health. bumptious adj. Full of offensive and aggressive self-conceit. bungle v. To execute clumsily. buoyancy n. Power or tendency to float on or in a liquid or gas. buoyant adj. Having the power or tendency to float or keep afloat. bureau n. A chest of drawers for clothing, etc. bureaucracy n. Government by departments of men transacting particular branches of public business. urgess n. In colonial times, a member of the lower house of the legislature of Maryland or Virginia. burgher n. An inhabitant, citizen or freeman of a borough burgh, or corporate town. burnish v. To make brilliant or shining. bursar n. A treasurer. bustle v. To hurry. butt v. To strike with or as with the head, or horns. butte n. A conspicuous hill, low mountain, or natural turret, generally isolated. buttress n. Any support or prop. by-law n. A rule or law adopted by an association, a corporation, or the like. cabal n. A number of persons secretly united for effecting by intrigue some private purpose. cabalism n. Superstitious devotion to one's religion. cabinet n. The body of men constituting the official advisors of the executive head of a nation. cacophony n. A disagreeable, harsh, or discordant sound or combination of sounds or tones. cadaverous adj. Resembling a corpse. cadence n. Rhythmical or measured flow or movement, as in poetry or the time and pace of marching troops. cadenza n. An embellishment or flourish, prepared or improvised, for a solo voice or instrument. caitiff adj. Cowardly. cajole v. To impose on or dupe by flattering speech. cajolery n. Delusive speech. calculable adj. That may be estimated by reckoning. alculus n. A concretion formed in various parts of the body resembling a pebble in hardness. callosity n. The state of being hard and insensible. callow adj. Without experience of the world. calorie n. Amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of 1 kilogram of water 1 degree centigrade. calumny n. Slander. Calvary n. The place where Christ was crucified. Calvinism n. The system of doctrine taught by John Calvin. Calvinize v. To teach or imbue with the doctrines of Calvinism. came n. A leaden sash-bar or grooved strip for fastening panes in stained-glass windows. cameo n. Any small engraved or carved work in relief. ampaign n. A complete series of connected military operations. Canaanite n. A member of one of the three tribes that dwelt in the land of Canaan, or western Palestine. canary adj. Of a bright but delicate yellow. candid adj. Straightforward. candor n. The quality of frankness or outspokenness. canine adj. Characteristic of a dog. canon n. Any rule or law. cant v. To talk in a singsong, preaching tone with affected solemnity. cantata n. A choral composition. canto n. One of the divisions of an extended poem. cantonment n. The part of the town or district in which the troops are quartered. capacious adj. Roomy. apillary n. A minute vessel having walls composed of a single layer of cells. capitulate v. To surrender or stipulate terms . caprice n. A whim. caption n. A heading, as of a chapter, section, document, etc. captious adj. Hypercritical. captivate v. To fascinate, as by excellence. eloquence, or beauty. carcass n. The dead body of an animal. cardiac adj. Pertaining to the heart. cardinal adj. Of prime or special importance. caret n. A sign (^) placed below a line, indicating where omitted words, etc. , should be inserted. caricature n. a picture or description in which natural characteristics are exaggerated or distorted. arnage n. Massacre. carnal adj. Sensual. carnivorous adj. Eating or living on flesh. carouse v. To drink deeply and in boisterous or jovial manner. carrion n. Dead and putrefying flesh. cartilage n. An elastic animal tissue of firm consistence. cartridge n. A charge for a firearm, or for blasting. caste n. The division of society on artificial grounds. castigate v. To punish. casual adj. Accidental, by chance. casualty n. A fatal or serious accident or disaster. cataclysm n. Any overwhel ming flood of water. cataract n. Opacity of the lens of the eye resulting in complete or partial blindness. catastrophe n. Any great and sudden misfortune or calamity. cathode n. The negative pole or electrode of a galvanic battery. Catholicism n. The system, doctrine, and practice of the Roman Catholic Church. catholicity n. Universal prevalence or acceptance. cat-o-nine-tails n. An instrument consisting of nine pieces of cord, formerly used for flogging in the army and navy. caucus n. A private meeting of members of a political party to select candidates. causal adj. Indicating or expressing a cause. caustic adj. Sarcastic and severe. cauterize v. To burn or sear as with a heated iron. cede v. To pass title to. censor n. An official examiner of manuscripts empowered to prohibit their publication. censorious adj. Judging severely or harshly. census n. An official numbering of the people of a country or district. centenary adj. Pertaining to a hundred years or a period of a hundred years. centiliter n. A hundredth of a liter. centimeter n. A length of one hundredth of a meter. centurion n. A captain of a company of one hundred infantry in the ancient Roman army. cereal adj. Pertaining to edible grain or farinaceous seeds. ceremonial adj. Characterized by outward form or ceremony. ceremonious adj. Observant of ritual. cessation n. Discontinuance, as of action or motion. cession n. Surrender, as of possessions or rights. chagrin n. Keen vexation, annoyance, or mortification, as at one's failures or errors. chameleon adj. Changeable in appearance. chancery n. A court of equity, as distinguished from a common-law court. chaos n. Any condition of which the elements or parts are in utter disorder and confusion. characteristic n. A distinctive feature. characterize v. To describe by distinctive marks or peculiarities. charlatan n. A quack. chasm n. A yawning hollow, as in the earth's surface. chasten v. To purify by affliction. chastise v. To subject to punitive measures. chastity n. Sexual or moral purity. chateau n. A castle or manor-house. chattel n. Any article of personal property. check v. To hold back. chiffon n. A very thin gauze used for trimmings, evening dress, etc. chivalry n. The knightly system of feudal times with its code, usages and practices. cholera n. An acute epidemic disease. choleric adj. Easily provoked to anger. choral adj. Pertaining to, intended for, or performed by a chorus or choir. Christ n. A title of Jesus christen v. To name in baptism. Christendom n. That part of the world where Christianity is generally professed. chromatic adj. Belonging, relating to, or abounding in color. chronology n. The science that treats of computation of time or of investigation and arrangement of events. chronometer n. A portable timekeeper of the highest attainable precision. cipher v. To calculate arithmetically. (also a noun meaning zero or nothing) circulate v. To disseminate. circumference n. The boundary-line of a circle. circumlocution n. Indirect or roundabout expression. circumnavigate v. To sail quite around. circumscribe v. To confine within bounds. circumspect adj. Showing watchfulness, caution, or careful consideration. citadel n. Any strong fortress. ite v. To refer to specifically. claimant n. One who makes a claim or demand, as of right. clairvoyance n. Intuitive sagacity or perception. clamorous adj. Urgent in complaint or demand. clan n. A tribe. clandestine adj. Surreptitious. clangor n. Clanking or a ringing, as of arms, chains, or bells; clamor. clarify v. To render intelligible. clarion n. A small shrill trump et or bugle. classify v. To arrange in a class or classes on the basis of observed resemblance’s and differences. clearance n. A certificate from the proper authorities that a vessel has complied with the law and may sail. clemency n. Mercy. clement adj. Compassionate. close-hauled adj. Having the sails set for sailing as close to the wind as possible. clothier n. One who makes or sells cloth or clothing. clumsy adj. Awkward of movement. coagulate v. To change into a clot or a jelly, as by heat, by chemical action, or by a ferment. coagulant adj. Producing coagulation. coalescence n. The act or process of coming together so as to form one body, combination, or product. coalition n. Combination in a body or mass. coddle v. To treat as a baby or an invalid. codicil n. A supplement adding to, revoking, or explaining in the body of a will. coerce v. To force. coercion n. Forcible constraint or restraint, moral or physical. coercive adj. Serving or tending to force. cogent adj. Appealing strongly to the reason or conscience. cognate adj. Akin. cognizant adj. Taking notice. cohere v. To stick together. cohesion n. Consistency. cohesive adj. Having the property of consistency. coincide v. To correspond. coincidence n. A circumstance so agreeing with another: often implying accident. coincident adj. Taking place at the same time. collaborate v. To labor or cooperate with another or others, especially in literary or scientific pursuits. collapse v. To cause to shrink, fall in, or fail. ollapsible adj. That may or can collapse. colleague n. An associate in professional employment. collective adj. Consisting of a number of persons or objects considered as gathered into a mass, or sum. collector n. One who makes a collection, as of objects of art, books, or the like. collegian n. A college student. collide v. To meet and strike violently. collier n. One who works in a coal-mine. collision n. Violent contact. colloquial adj. Pertaining or peculiar to common speech as distinguished from literary. colloquialism n. Form of speech used only or chiefly in conversation. colloquy n. Conversation. collusion n. A secret agreement for a wrongful purpose. colossus n. Any strikingly great person or object. comely adj. Handsome. comestible adj. Fit to be eaten. comical adj. Funny. commemorate v. To serve as a remembrance of. commentary n. A series of illustrative or explanatory notes on any important work. commingle v. To blend. commissariat n. The department of an army charged with the provision of its food and water and daily needs. commission v. To empower. commitment n. The act or process of entrusting or consigning for safe-keeping. committal n. The act, fact, or result of committing, or the state of being commodity n. Something that is bought and sold. commotion n. A disturbance or violent agitation. commute v. To put something, especially something less severe, in place of. comparable adj. Fit to be compared. comparative adj. Relative. comparison n. Examination of two or more objects with reference to their likeness or unlikeness. compensate v. To remunerate. competence n. Adequate qualification or capacity. competent adj. Qualified. competitive adj. characterized by rivalry. competitor n. A rival. complacence n. Satisfaction with one's acts or surroundings. complacent adj. Pleased or satisfied with oneself. complaisance n. Politeness. omplaisant adj. Agreeable. complement v. To make complete. complex adj. Complicated. compliant adj. Yielding. complicate v. To make complex, difficult, or hard to deal with. complication n. An intermingling or combination of things or parts, especially in a perplexing manner. complicity n. Participation or partnership, as in wrong-doing or with a wrong-doer. compli ment v. To address or gratify with expressions of delicate praise. component n. A constituent element or part. comport v. To conduct or behave (oneself). composure n. Calmness. comprehensible adj. Intelligible. comprehension n. Ability to know. comprehensive adj. Large in scope or content. compress v. To press together or into smaller space. compressible adj. Capable of being pressed into smaller compass. compression n. Constraint, as by force or authority. comprise v. To consist of. compulsion n. Coercion. compulsory adj. Forced. compunction n. Remorseful feeling. compute v. To ascertain by mathematical calculation. concede v. To surrender. conceit n. Self-flattering opinion. conceive v. To form an idea, mental image or thought of. concerto n. A musical composition. concession n. Anything granted or yielded, or admitted in response to a demand, petition, or claim. conciliate v. To obtain the friendship of. conciliatory adj. Tending to reconcile. conclusive adj. Sufficient to convince or decide. concord n. Harmony. concordance n. Harmony. concur v. To agree. concurrence n. Agreement. concurrent adj. Occurring or acting together. concussion n. A violent shock to some organ by a fall or a sudden blow. condensation n. The act or process of making dense or denser. condense v. To abridge. condescend v. To come down voluntarily to equal terms with inferiors. condolence n. Expression of sympathy with a person in pain, sorrow, or misfortune. conduce v. To bring about. conducive adj. Contributing to an end. onductible adj. Capable of being conducted or transmitted. conduit n. A means for conducting something, particularly a tube, pipe, or passageway for a fluid. confectionery n. The candy collectively that a confectioner makes or sells, as candy. confederacy n. A number of states or persons in compact or league with each other, as for mutual aid. confederate n. One w ho is united with others in a league, compact, or agreement. confer v. To bestow. conferee n. A person with whom another confers. confessor n. A spiritual advisor. confidant n. One to whom secrets are entrusted. confide v. To reveal in trust or confidence. confidence n. The state or feeling of trust in or reliance upon another. confident adj. Assured. confinement n. Restriction within limits or boundaries. confiscate v. To appropriate (private property) as forfeited to the public use or treasury. conflagration n. A great fire, as of many buildings, a forest, or the like. confluence n. The place where streams meet. confluent n. A stream that unites with another. conformance n. The act or state or conforming. conformable adj. Harmonious. conformation n. General structure, form, or outline. conformity n. Correspondence in form, manner, or use. confront v. To encounter, as difficulties or obstacles. ongeal v. To coagulate. congenial adj. Having kindred character or tastes. congest v. To collect into a mass. congregate v. To bring together into a crowd. coniferous adj. Cone-bearing trees. conjecture n. A guess. conjoin v. To unite. conjugal adj. Pertaining to marriage, marital rights, or married persons. conjugate adj. Joined together in pairs. conjugati on n. The state or condition of being joined together. conjunction n. The state of being joined together, or the things so joined. connive v. To be in collusion. connoisseur n. A critical judge of art, especially one with thorough knowledge and sound judgment of art. onnote v. To mean; signify. connubial adj. Pertaining to marriage or matrimony. conquer v. To overcome by force. consanguineous adj. Descended from the same parent or ancestor. conscience n. The faculty in man by which he distinguishes between right and wrong in character and conduct. conscientious adj. Governed by moral standard. conscious adj. Aware that one lives, feels, and thinks. conscript v. To force into military service. consecrate v. To set apart as sacred. consecutive adj. Following in uninterrupted succession. consensus n. A collective unanimous opinion of a number of persons. conservatism n. Tendency to adhere to the existing order of things. conservative adj. Adhering to the existing order of things. conservatory n. An institution for instruction and training in music and declamation. consign v. To entrust. consignee n. A person to whom goods or other property has been entrusted. consignor n. One who entrusts. consistency n. A state of permanence. console v. To comfort. consolidate v. To combine into one body or system. consonance n. The state or quality of being in accord with. consonant adj. Being in agreement or harmony with. consort n. A companion or associate. conspicuous adj. Clearly visible. conspirator n. One who agrees with others to cooperate in accomplishing some unlawful purpose. conspire v. To plot. constable n. An officer whose duty is to maintain the peace. constellation n. An arbitrary assemblage or group of stars. consternation n. Panic. constituency n. The inhabitants or voters in a district represented in a legislative body. constituent n. One who has the right to vote at an election. constrict v. To bind. consul n. An officer appointed to reside in a foreign city, chiefly to represent his country. consulate n. The place in which a consul transacts official business. consummate v. To bring to completion. onsumption n. Gradual destruction, as by burning, eating, etc. , or by using up, wearing out, etc. consumptive adj. Designed for gradual destruction. contagion n. The communication of disease from person to person. contagious adj. Transmitting disease. contaminate v. To pollute. contemplate v. To consider thoughtfully. contemporaneous adj. Living, occurring, or existing at the same time. contemporary adj. Living or existing at the same time. contemptible adj. Worthy of scorn or disdain. contemptuous adj. Disdainful. contender n. One who exerts oneself in opposition or rivalry. contiguity n. Proximity. contiguous adj. Touching or joining at the edge or boundary. continence n. Self-restraint with respect to desires, appetites, and passion. contingency n. Possibility of happening. contingent adj. Not predictable. continuance n. Permanence. continuation n. Prolongation. continuity n. Uninterrupted connection in space, time, operation, or development. continuous adj. Connected, extended, or prolonged without separation or interruption of sequence. contort v. To twist into a misshapen form. contraband n. Trade forbidden by law or treaty. contradiction n. The assertion of the opposite of that which has been said. contradictory adj. Inconsistent with itself. contraposition n. A placing opposite. contravene v. To prevent or obstruct the operation of. contribution n. The act of giving for a common purpose. contributor n. One who gives or furnishes, in common with others, for a common purpose. contrite adj. Broken in spirit because of a sense of sin. contrivance n. The act planning, devising, inventing, or adapting something to or for a special purpose. contrive v. To manage or carry through by some device or scheme. control v. To exercise a directing, restraining, or governing influence over. controller n. One who or that which regulates or directs. ontumacious adj. Rebellious. contumacy n. Contemptuous disregard of the requirements of rightful authority. contuse v. To bruise by a blow, either with or without the breaking of the skin. contusion n. A bruise. convalesce v. To recover after a sickness. convalescence n. The state of progressive restoration to health and strength after the cessation of disease. convale scent adj. Recovering health after sickness. convene v. To summon or cause to assemble. convenience n. Fitness, as of time or place. converge v. To cause to incline and approach nearer together. convergent adj. Tending to one point. conversant adj. Thoroughly informed. conversion n. Change from one state or position to another, or from one form to another. convertible adj. Interchangeable. convex adj. Curving like the segment of the globe or of the surface of a circle. conveyance n. That by which anything is transported. convivial adj. Devoted to feasting, or to good-fellowship in eating or drinking. convolution n. A winding motion. convolve v. To move with a circling or winding motion. convoy n. A protecting force accompanying property in course of transportation. convulse v. To cause spasms in. convulsion n. A violent and abnormal muscular contraction of the body. opious adj. Plenteous. coquette n. A flirt. cornice n. An ornamental molding running round the walls of a room close to the ceiling. cornucopia n. The horn of plenty, symbolizing peace and prosperity. corollary n. A proposition following so obviously from another that it requires little demonstration. coronation n. The act or ceremony of crowning a monarch. coronet n. Inferior crown denoting, according to its form, various degrees of noble rank less than sovereign. corporal adj. Belonging or relating to the body as opposed to the mind. corporate adj. Belonging to a corporation. corporeal adj. Of a material nature; physical. orps n. A number or body of persons in some way associated or acting together. corpse n. A dead body. corpulent adj. Obese. corpuscle n. A minute particle of matter. correlate v. To put in some relation of connection or correspondence. correlative adj. Mutually involving or implying one another. corrigible adj. Capable of reformation. corroborate v. To strengthen, as proof or conviction. corroboration n. Confirmation. corrode v. To ruin or destroy little by little. corrosion n. Gradual decay by crumbling or surface disintegration. corrosive n. That which causes gradual decay by crumbling or surface disintegration. orruptible adj. Open to bribery. corruption n. Loss of purity or integrity. cosmetic adj. Pertaining to the art of beautifying, especially the complexion. cosmic adj. Pertaining to the universe. cosmogony n. A doctrine of creation or of the origin of the universe. cosmography n. The science that describes the universe, including astronomy, geography, and geology. cosmology n. The general science of the universe. cosmopolitan adj. Common to all the world. cosmopolitanism n. A cosmopolitan character. cosmos n. The world or universe considered as a system, perfect in order and arrangement. counter-claim n. A cross-demand alleged by a defendant in his favor against the plaintiff. counteract v. To act in opposition to. counterbalance v. To oppose with an equal force. countercharge v. To accuse in return. counterfeit adj. Made to resemble something else. counterpart n. Something taken with another for the completion of either. countervail v. To offset. counting-house n. A house or office used for transacting business, bookkeeping, correspondence, etc. countryman n. A rustic. courageous adj. Brave. course n. Line of motion or direction. courser n. A fleet and spirited horse. courtesy n. Politeness originating in kindness and exercised habitually. ovenant n. An agreement entered into by two or more persons or parties. covert adj. Concealed, especially for an evil purpose. covey n. A flock of quails or partridges. cower v. To crouch down tremblingly, as through fear or shame. coxswain n. One who steers a rowboat, or one who has charge of a ship's boat and its crew under an officer. crag n. A rugged, rocky projection on a cliff or ledge. cranium n. The skull of an animal, especially that part enclosing the brain. crass adj. Coarse or thick in nature or structure, as opposed to thin or fine. craving n. A vehement desire. creak n. A sharp, harsh, squeaking sound. creamery n. A butter-making establishment. creamy adj. Resembling or containing cream. credence n. Belief. credible adj. Believable. credulous adj. Easily deceived. creed n. A formal summary of fundamental points of religious belief. crematory adj. A place for cremating dead bodies. crevasse n. A deep crack or fissure in the ice of a glacier. crevice n. A small fissure, as between two contiguous surfaces. criterion n. A standard by which to determine the correctness of a judgment or conclusion. critique n. A criticism or critical review. crockery n. Earthenware made from baked clay. crucible n. A trying and purifying test or agency. rusade n. Any concerted movement, vigorously prosecuted, in behalf of an idea or principle. crustacean adj. Pertaining to a division of arthropods, containing lobsters, crabs, crawfish, etc. crustaceous adj. Having a crust-like shell. cryptogram n. Anything written in characters that are secret or so arranged as to have hidden meaning. crystallize v. To bring togethe r or give fixed shape to. cudgel n. A short thick stick used as a club. culinary adj. Of or pertaining to cooking or the kitchen. cull v. To pick or sort out from the rest. culpable adj. Guilty. culprit n. A guilty person. culvert n. Any artificial covered channel for the passage of water through a bank or under a road, canal. cupidity n. Avarice. curable adj. Capable of being remedied or corrected. curator n. A person having charge as of a library or museum. curio n. A piece of bric-a-brac. cursive adj. Writing in which the letters are joined together. cursory adj. Rapid and superficial. curt adj. Concise, compressed, and abrupt in act or expression. curtail v. To cut off or cut short. curtsy n. A downward movement of the body by bending the knees. cycloid adj. Like a circle. cygnet n. A young swan. cynical adj. Exhibiting moral skepticism. cynicism n. Contempt for the opinions of others and of what others value. cynosure n. That to which general interest or attention is directed. daring adj. Brave. darkling adv. Blindly. Darwinism n. The doctrine that natural selection has been the prime cause of evolution of higher forms. dastard n. A base coward. datum n. A premise, starting-point, or given fact. dauntless adj. Fearless. day-man n. A day-laborer. dead-heat n. A race in which two or more competitors come out even, and there is no winner. dearth n. Scarcity, as of something customary, essential ,or desirable. death's-head n. A human skull as a symbol of death. ebase v. To lower in character or virtue. debatable adj. Subject to contention or dispute. debonair adj. Having gentle or courteous bearing or manner. debut n. A first appearance in society or on the stage. decagon n. A figure with ten sides and ten angles. decagram n. A weight of 10 grams. decaliter n. A liquid and dry measure of 10 liters. decalogue n. The ten commandments . Decameron n. A volume consisting of ten parts or books. decameter n. A length of ten meters. decamp v. To leave suddenly or unexpectedly. decapitate v. To behead. decapod adj. Ten-footed or ten-armed. decasyllable n. A line of ten syllables. eceit n. Falsehood. deceitful adj. Fraudulent. deceive v. To mislead by or as by falsehood. decency n. Moral fitness. decent adj. Characterized by propriety of conduct, speech, manners, or dress. deciduous adj. Falling off at maturity as petals after flowering, fruit when ripe, etc. decimal adj. Founded on the number 10. decimate v. To destroy a measurable or large proportion of. decipher v. To find out the true words or meaning of, as something hardly legible. decisive ad. Conclusive. declamation n. A speech recited or intended for recitation from memory in public. declamatory adj. A full and formal style of utterance. eclarative adj. Containing a formal, positive, or explicit statement or affirmation. declension n. The change of endings in n ouns and adj. to express their different relations of gender. decorate v. To embellish. decorous adj. Suitable for the occasion or circumstances. decoy n. Anything that allures, or is intended to allures into danger or temptation. decrepit adj. Enfeebled, as by old age or some chronic infirmity. dedication n. The voluntary consecration or relinquishment of something to an end or cause. deduce v. To derive or draw as a conclusion by reasoning from given premises or principles. deface v. To mar or disfigure the face or external surface of. defalcate v. To cut off or take away, as a part of something. defamation n. Malicious and groundless injury done to the reputation or good name of another. defame v. To slander. default n. The neglect or omission of a

Analysing 4 Short Horror Story Openings Essays

Analysing 4 Short Horror Story Openings Essays Analysing 4 Short Horror Story Openings Essay Analysing 4 Short Horror Story Openings Essay Essay Topic: Literature In this piece of coursework, I am going to analyse 4 Horror Story openings. The first is The Signalman by Charles Dickens. It tells the story of a man who comes across a seemingly normal railway cutting with a mysterious story to tell. The second is The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allen Poe. The main character, who is seemingly mad, has a grudge against an old man because of his vulture eye and this drives him to take drastic action. For the third story, there is The Landlady by Roald Dahl in which the main character is taken victim by a seemingly harmless Landlady of a small guesthouse. Lastly, there is All But Empty by Graham Greene. In this story the writer finds a man in a cinema with a puzzling and inexplicable tale. The settings for all of the stories openings have something in common to link them together. The Signalman uses very atmospheric words to describe the cutting, its surroundings and the time of day. The actual cutting is described as extremely deep and unusually precipitate. These words give the reader the feeling that the cutting is forbidding and uninviting to the narrator/writer. The time of day that the opening is set is mid-evening, just as the sun is setting. This also has its part to play in the mood of the opening. The writer describes the cutting steeped in the glow of an angry sunset. The word angry brings up the colour red which is associated with danger. When the writer is making his way down to the cutting he gives vivid descriptions like clammy stone, zigzag path and oozier and wetter. These words as well as adding to the feeling of unwelcomeness, paint a picture of wetness and cold. Upon reaching the cutting, he describes the tunnel. He uses word like gloomier and massive architecture. Its greatness is made to make the writer feel small and insignificant. He also describes the tunnel by saying, there was a barbarous, depressing and forbidding air. So little sunlight ever found its way to this spot, that it had an earthy deadly smell; so much cold wind rushed through it, that it struck chill to me, as if I had left the natural world. Again the word forbidding shows the unwelcome feeling. The cutting is described as a Great Dungeon with a dripping wet wall of jagged stone excluding all view but a strip of sky. This shows that the cutting is secluded from all view. This adds to the effect that the cutting is a dark place, which has secrets to hide from the outside world. The first setting that is portrayed in The Tell-Tale Heart is when the writer is planning the murder of the old man and his vulture eye. The beginning is set at midnight, which is thought of as dark and quiet which makes it mysterious and secretive. The old mans room is described as being black as pitch with the thick darkness. It also says that the shutters were shut through fear of robbers. This shows that the old man is afraid. The darkness gives a feeling of seclusion. The Tell-Tale Heart links with The Signalman in this respect. After the old man hears the writer sneaking around the door of his room, he lets out a groan of mortal terror. The description of this moan adds to the scary atmosphere of the opening, which is building up to the murder. When he opens the lantern to look at the old mans eye, he does it ever so cautiously so a single dim ray, like the thread of a spider shot from out the crevice and fell upon the vulture eye. This shows with how much care he carried out all the deeds leading up to the murder. Then the writer says, Their came a low dull quick sound, such as a watch makes when enveloped in cotton. This shows that the writers senses are more alert than usual and he is on edge about the whole venture. Roald Dahl first sets the scene in The landlady by describing the time and the weather. He says that it was about nine oclock in the evening and the moon was coming out of a clear starry sky. This indicates that it was dark and we associate darkness with eeriness and it gives the reader and unwelcome feeling. It also says that the air was deadly cold and it was like a flat blade of ice on his cheeks. The word blade suggests sharp and hurtful. Cold gives a feeling of isolation to the reader and adds to the feeling of mysteriousness. The street is described as wide with only a tall line of houses on each side, all of them identical. The Landlady here links with The Signalman and the massive architecture of the tunnel. The tallness of the houses is included to make the character look and feel small. The houses are described as being once upon a time, very swanky residences. The houses are obviously now old and neglected. This is hinted at when it says but now, even in the darkness, he could see that the paint was peeling from the woodwork on their doors and windows, and that the handsome white facades were cracked and blotchy from neglect. It also says that all houses are identical. This means that nothing stands out or is appealing in anyway. This tells the reader that the area is dull and drab and makes it seem it has been neglected. When he first catches a glimpse of the bed and breakfast it says, Suddenly, in a downstairs window brilliantly illuminated by a street light not 6 yards away This means that the house appealed to him and stood out in one way or another and this add to the mystery of the opening. The inside of the house is described as being warm and welcoming. This contrasts with the other stories in which the place was unwelcoming and unfriendly. The writer of All But Empty portrays the cinema as an empty place. He says it had almost invariable, total emptiness. This links with The Signalman and The Landlady in this respect because it makes the reader think of the isolation the main character must be feeling. The music that is playing in the film he describes as blurred metallic music. This makes the film seem as if it is of no consequence and he is not really watching it. This shows that the mans mind is somewhere else. He also describes the air as being stale which adds to the old feeling that we get right from the beginning. We tend to think of old things as being mysterious and this adds to the opening. In The Signalman, a lot of questions are raised as to the secretive nature of the main character. One of the questions raised is why doesnt the signalman answer when the writer, stood on top of the cliff, talks to him? It is obvious for the reader that he is confused in some way but it still leaves the question as to why and what is confused or worried about? This is shown when the writer writes instead of looking up to where I stood on top of the steep cutting nearly over his head, he turned himself about and looked down the line. This makes the reader question what the signalman is unsure about. When the writer finally gets down into the cutting and he starts to talk to the signalman, the signalman just looks straight past him and looks at the mouth of the tunnel instead. It is clear that there is something about the man that is puzzling him in someway although it is unclear until further on in the story when he says I am troubled. This makes the reader want to read on to find out what he is troubled about. Throughout the time that the signalman and writer are talking, the signalman keeps looking at the warning bell as though expecting it to ring: -he twice broke off with a fallen colour, turned his face towards the little bell when it did not ring, opened the door of the hut, and looked out towards the red light near the mouth of the tunnel. This shows that he appears to be waiting for something to happen, but what? As the writer is about to leave, the signalman tells him that he is troubled but feels unable to talk about those troubles to him at that moment. He tells him to come back tomorrow night and he will tell him then. It is plain that he is feeling slightly pressured then and this gives the reader an insight into his thoughts at that time. In the story of The Tell-Tale Heart questions are asked about a lot of the aspects of the opening. Firstly, why does the writer deny being mad? This story depicts a man who is obviously mad because of the way he acts. What is so annoying about the old mans eye that drives him to kill him? He describes the eye as resembling that of a vulture-a pale blue eye, with a film over it. He then goes on to say that whenever it fell upon me, my blood ran cold. The eye obviously made him uneasy in some way because the phrase my blood ran cold we usually associate with terror or horror. When he is preparing for the murder, why does it take him so long to enter the bedroom and open the lamp to see inside? Why does he carry out all the procedures with such care and for such a long time? He says he did this for eight nights before killing the old man. He also says it took me an hour to place my head within the opening. This makes the reader feel that he obviously feels very strongly about his cause otherwise he would not be so patient towards it and encourages them to wonder why the old mans eye could be driving him to eventually kill him. The landlady raises many questions in the opening. One of the first is why does the Bed and Breakfast sign appear three times to Billy as he looks in the window of the boarding house? Dahl includes this to show how attractive the bed and breakfast is against the coldness of the outside and the other apparently derelict houses. When Billy Weaver rings the bell on the front door of the house, it is said by Dahl that, This dame was like a jack-in-a-box. He pressed the bell and out she popped! This makes the reader wonder why she was so eager and make them immediately aware that there is something strange about the house. In the fourth story, All but empty, the writer, Graham Greene, raises lots of questions concerned with the old man and the cinema. The writer says he very often visits an old cinema but why? He describes the cinema as having almost invariable, almost total emptiness but why would someone want to visit a desolate old cinema? When the Old Man enters the cinema he chooses to sit next to the man but why as there were plenty of other seats available? The writer says, He tried to get past me, though he had the whole cinema to choose from. This encourages the reader to think that the old man has a secret that he would like to share with someone. Each of the stories shares some common aspect that makes a successful horror story opening. Every story uses night or darkness to show that they have a dark meaning. The Signalman is set around sunset that has an angry glow. This acts, as a warning as to what is about to happen to the unfortunate Signalman. The bedroom in The Tell-Tale Heart, while the writer is looking in on the old man as he sleeps, is described as being black as pitch with the thick darkness, and this shows the reader that the old man is completely innocent and unable to see what is about to happen to him. Another similarity between all of the stories is the way in which the writers have described the victims. They are portrayed as someone who is innocent and unaware of their fate. Billy Weaver in The Landlady is described as 17 and that it is his first time in Bath. This makes him sound innocent and vulnerable. Sounds also play a large part in the stories. The Signalman has a part where the train comes from out of the tunnel: Just then there came a vague vibration in the earth and air, quickly changing into a violent pulsation. This perhaps is a forewarning to the sudden death that the signalman is about to meet. The way in which the stories are written is perhaps the biggest impact on how the stories make the reader feel. Charles Dickens has written the story so that there is not much dialogue in the beginning maybe showing that the two characters find it hard to communicate with each other. Edgar Allen-Poe uses a dramatic amount of punctuation in The Tell-Tale Heart to make the reader realise how the killer is talking. The sentences are disjointed with lots of exclamation marks e. g. True! -nervous-very, very dreadfully nervous. This is added to make the reader know how he is feeling.