1.
TIER (noun)
Correct Answer
D. A row or level of a structure
Explanation
The correct answer is "A row or level of a structure". In this context, "tier" refers to a specific level or row within a structure. It suggests that there are multiple levels or rows, each representing a different tier. This definition is commonly used when referring to buildings, seating arrangements, or organizational structures where there are distinct levels or rows.
2.
TAD (noun or adverb)
Correct Answer
B. A small amount of something
Explanation
The correct answer is "A small amount of something." This is because the word "tad" is used to describe a small or insignificant quantity of something. It is often used colloquially to refer to a small amount or a little bit of something. Therefore, the answer accurately describes the meaning of the word "tad" as a noun or adverb.
3.
SALINE (adjective)
Correct Answer
A. Containing salt
Explanation
The correct answer is "Containing salt" because the word "saline" is an adjective that describes something that has salt in it. It can be used to describe a solution, such as saline solution, which is a mixture of salt and water. In this context, "saline" refers to the presence of salt in a substance.
4.
LOAF (noun)
Correct Answer
D. A shaped or molded mass of bread
Explanation
The correct answer is "A shaped or molded mass of bread". This is because the word "loaf" is commonly used to refer to a specific form of bread that is shaped or molded into a specific size and shape. It is typically larger than a regular slice of bread and is often used for making sandwiches or toast. Therefore, this definition accurately describes the meaning of "loaf" in the context of the given options.
5.
GALLANT (adjective)
Correct Answer
B. Brave and heroic
Explanation
The word "gallant" is an adjective that describes someone who is brave and heroic. This person displays courage and acts in a noble and chivalrous manner. They are willing to face danger and protect others. This definition aligns with the meaning of "gallant" and is the most appropriate choice among the given options.
6.
NUPTIAL (adjective)
Correct Answer
D. Relating to marriage or weddings
Explanation
The word "nuptial" is an adjective that refers to something related to marriage or weddings. It is commonly used to describe events, ceremonies, or traditions associated with the union of two people in matrimony. This word specifically pertains to the context of marriage and cannot be used to describe other concepts such as being controlled or exploited, having subtle shades of meaning, or a harmonious relationship.
7.
TEDIOUS (adjective)
Correct Answer
A. Long and tiresome
Explanation
The word "tedious" is an adjective that describes something as being long and tiresome. This means that it is boring, repetitive, and takes a lot of time and effort. It suggests that the task or activity is not enjoyable and can be mentally or physically draining.
8.
PEAT (noun)
Correct Answer
A. An accumulation of partially decayed vegetation or organic matter
Explanation
The correct answer is "An accumulation of partially decayed vegetation or organic matter." This is because the definition of "peat" refers to the accumulation of partially decayed vegetation or organic matter. It does not refer to arid land, flooded low-lying land, or a treeless, permanently frozen area.
9.
PUTRID (adjective)
Correct Answer
D. Characteristic of rotting matter
Explanation
The word "putrid" is an adjective that describes something as being characteristic of rotting matter. This means that the thing being described has the qualities or attributes associated with decaying or decomposing organic material. The word "putrid" is often used to describe foul or offensive odors or tastes that are reminiscent of decay.
10.
WRY (adjective)
Correct Answer
B. An expression of disgust, disappointment, or annoyance
Explanation
The word "WRY" is an adjective that can be used to describe an expression of disgust, disappointment, or annoyance. This means that when someone's face or mannerisms show signs of these negative emotions, we can describe their expression as "wry". It does not refer to a lack of adornment, storminess, abnormality, or any other meaning listed.
11.
FOLLICLE (noun)
Correct Answer
D. A small anatomical cavity
Explanation
The correct answer is "A small anatomical cavity". This is because a follicle is commonly referred to as a small anatomical cavity in the body. It can be found in various organs such as the ovaries, where it houses the developing egg, or in the skin, where it contains the hair root. In general, a follicle is a small hollow structure that serves a specific function within the body.
12.
IMPEDIMENT (noun)
Correct Answer
A. A hindrance or obstruction in doing something
Explanation
The correct answer is "A hindrance or obstruction in doing something." This is because the definition of "impediment" refers to something that hinders or obstructs the progress or action of something or someone. It implies that there is a barrier or difficulty that prevents smooth or easy completion of a task or activity.
13.
OSTRACISE (verb)
Correct Answer
B. Exclude someone from a society or group
Explanation
The correct answer is "Exclude someone from a society or group." This is because the verb "ostracise" means to exclude or banish someone from a society or group, typically as a form of punishment or social rejection. It involves deliberately keeping someone out or isolating them from the rest of the community. This action is often taken to show disapproval or to enforce social norms and standards within the group.
14.
INSIPID (adjective)
Correct Answer
C. Lacking vigor or interest
Explanation
The correct answer is "Lacking vigor or interest." The word "insipid" is an adjective that is commonly used to describe something that is dull, bland, or lacking in flavor. In this context, it is used to describe something that lacks vigor or interest, indicating that it is unexciting or uninteresting.
15.
EXPEDITE (verb)
Correct Answer
D. Make an action be accomplished more quickly
Explanation
The correct answer is "Make an action be accomplished more quickly." This is because the word "expedite" is a verb that means to make something happen faster or to speed up a process. So, this option accurately reflects the meaning of the word.
16.
OLEAGINOUS (adjective)
Correct Answer
D. Rich in, covered with, or producing oil
Explanation
The correct answer is "Rich in, covered with, or producing oil." The word "oleaginous" is an adjective that describes something that is oily or greasy. It implies that the object or substance is abundant in oil or has a similar consistency to oil. Therefore, the answer choice "Rich in, covered with, or producing oil" accurately captures the meaning of the word.
17.
CLEMENCY (noun)
Correct Answer
C. Leniency, mercy, or compassion in judging or punishing
Explanation
The correct answer is "Leniency, mercy, or compassion in judging or punishing." This is because clemency refers to the act of showing mercy or compassion when judging or punishing someone for an offense or mistake. It implies a less severe punishment or a willingness to forgive. It does not refer to the discharge of workers or lessening of a punishment or chore.
18.
SINECURE (noun)
Correct Answer
C. A position requiring little or no work
Explanation
The correct answer is "A position requiring little or no work." A sinecure refers to a job or position that involves minimal or no effort, often accompanied by a high salary or other benefits. It implies that the person holding the position has little to do and faces no significant challenges or responsibilities.
19.
FOMENT (verb)
Correct Answer
A. To instigate or stir up an undesirable or violent sentiment or course of action
Explanation
The correct answer for the word "foment" is to instigate or stir up an undesirable or violent sentiment or course of action. This means that "foment" is used to describe the act of encouraging or provoking negative or violent emotions or actions. It implies that someone is actively trying to create unrest or conflict.
20.
ENTROPY (noun)
Correct Answer
B. A quantity which describes the randomness of a substance or system
Explanation
The correct answer is "A quantity which describes the randomness of a substance or system." Entropy is a term used in thermodynamics and information theory to measure the level of disorder or randomness in a system. It quantifies the number of possible arrangements or states that a system can have. A higher entropy indicates a higher level of disorder or randomness, while a lower entropy indicates a more ordered or organized system.
21.
ARCHITRAVE (noun)
Correct Answer
D. The lintel or beam that rests on the capitals of columns
Explanation
Architrave refers to the lintel or beam that rests on the capitals of columns. In architectural terms, it is the lowermost part of an entablature, which is the horizontal structure supported by the columns in classical architecture. The architrave serves as the load-bearing element that distributes the weight of the structure above it. It is an essential component in creating the overall stability and balance of the architectural design.
22.
COMMINATORY (adjective)
Correct Answer
B. Threatening, punitive, or vengeful
Explanation
The correct answer is "Threatening, punitive, or vengeful." This is because the word "comminatory" is an adjective that describes something that is menacing, punishing, or seeking revenge. It does not relate to commentary, communism, or having a gentle nature.
23.
VICTUAL (noun)
Correct Answer
A. Food or provisions
Explanation
The word "victual" is a noun that refers to food or provisions. It is derived from the Old French word "vitaille" which means "provisions". This word is often used in the context of supplying or providing food for a group of people, such as in a military or camping setting. Therefore, the correct answer is "Food or provisions".
24.
OBNUBILATE (verb)
Correct Answer
D. To make unclear, indistinct, or blurred as if with a cloud
Explanation
The correct answer is "To make unclear, indistinct, or blurred as if with a cloud." This means that obnubilate refers to the act of making something unclear or blurred, similar to how an object would appear if it were covered by a cloud. It implies rendering something obscure or unintelligible, making it difficult to perceive or understand clearly.
25.
HECTOR (verb)
Correct Answer
B. To talk or behave towards someone in a forceful way
Explanation
The correct answer is "To talk or behave towards someone in a forceful way." This is because the verb "hector" means to intimidate or bully someone by speaking or acting aggressively towards them. It does not refer to hitting someone with a heavy weapon, restricting someone's movement, or gathering people together for a specific purpose.