English 9 Mrs. Zaso

Word of the Day English 9 – Mrs. Zaso Set #: ___2__ Word Definition Sentence Abnegation A denial of comfort to one’s self Brayden slept on the floor at the hurricane shelter so the elderly woman could rest – a complete act of abnegation! Bombastic Excessively confident, cocky, pompous Autumn’s bombastic attitude after winning prom queen made her fellow classmates wish they never voted for her. Ameliorate To improve Janelle helped ameliorate her school’s lunches by getting involved with student council. Probity Virtue and integrity Julian was never a man of great probity; no one was surprised when he stole from the church. Semaphore A visual signal Someone who is deaf often depends on semaphores to communicate. Perfidious Disloyal and unfaithful Sally broke up with her boyfriend when she learned of his perfidious habits. Obsequious Excessively complaint or submissive Mike’s puppy soon became obsequious when he learned he would get a treat after performing a trick. Calamity An event with disastrous consequences The earthquake in San Francisco was a calamity worse than any other natural disaster in American history. Temerity Audacity, recklessness Brad entered the scary cave with nothing but his own temerity. Gourmand Someone fond of eating and drinking John considers himself a gourmand on Thanksgiving when he goes back for a third plate!