Vocabulary Quiz: American Literature - Realism

'Garrulous' describes someone who is excessively talkative, often about trivial matters. This term is commonly used to characterize individuals who tend to engage in lengthy conversations, sometimes to the point of being tiresome or annoying. The root of the word is linked to the idea of being chatty or loquacious, emphasizing a tendency to speak at great length without much substance.

'Append' originates from the Latin word 'appendere,' meaning to hang on or attach. In various contexts, such as programming or writing, it signifies adding something to an existing entity, like appending data to a file or attaching a note to a document. The term emphasizes the act of joining or affixing additional information rather than encouraging, cursing, or joking. Thus, it is primarily associated with the concept of attachment or affixation.

'Countenance' refers to a person's facial expression or demeanor, often reflecting their emotions or mood. It encompasses the visible aspects of a person's face, including features like the eyes, mouth, and overall appearance, which can convey feelings such as happiness, sadness, anger, or surprise. Understanding someone's countenance can provide insight into their emotional state without the need for words.

'Dilapidated' refers to a state of deterioration or ruin, often due to neglect or age. When something is described as dilapidated, it indicates that it has fallen into disrepair, with structural damage or decay. This term is commonly used for buildings or objects that are no longer maintained and have become unsafe or unsightly. In contrast, the other options do not align with the meaning of dilapidated, making 'in disrepair' the most accurate description.

'Interminable' describes something that seems to last forever or has no end. It is often used to express a sense of weariness or frustration with something that drags on indefinitely, such as a lengthy conversation or a tedious task. The prefix "inter-" suggests a connection, while "minable" implies something that can be measured or counted, but when combined, it conveys the idea of an endless duration or an unceasing state.

To 'exhort' someone means to strongly encourage them to take a specific action or to adopt a particular viewpoint. This term often implies a passionate or earnest appeal, urging the individual to consider the importance of the action being proposed. It is commonly used in contexts where motivation and persuasion are essential, such as in speeches or writings aimed at inspiring others. The root of the word suggests a sense of urgency and fervor in the encouragement being offered.

'Cavort' means to leap or dance about in a lively or playful manner. It conveys a sense of joy and exuberance, often associated with playful movements or frolicking. The term is commonly used to describe animals or people who are energetically bounding around, showcasing a carefree spirit. This definition aligns with the idea of leaping about, emphasizing the lively and spirited nature of the action.

'Felonious' is derived from the word 'felony,' which refers to a serious crime typically punishable by imprisonment or death. This term is often used in legal contexts to describe actions that are criminal in nature. In contrast, the other options—flirtatious behavior, a curse, and a steep incline—do not pertain to criminal activity, making 'crime' the most appropriate association for 'felonious.'

'Ornery' refers to a person who is irritable, difficult to deal with, or stubborn, often exhibiting a mean or cranky disposition. This term typically describes someone who may be grumpy or cantankerous, making them unpleasant to be around. The other options—showy, humorous, and wandering—do not align with the negative connotation associated with being ornery. Thus, the most accurate interpretation of 'ornery' is that it characterizes a mean or ill-tempered attitude.

A 'vagabond' refers to a person who travels from place to place without a fixed home, often living a nomadic lifestyle. This term is commonly associated with individuals who lead a free-spirited existence, moving around rather than settling down in one location. The other options provided, such as a loud cry, a curse, or a facial expression, do not align with the essence of wandering or a transient lifestyle, making "one who wanders" the most fitting definition.

'Afflicted' refers to being affected by a condition, often in a negative or distressing way. It is commonly used to describe someone suffering from an illness, injury, or other physical or mental challenges. The term emphasizes the burden or hardship that comes with such a condition, highlighting the impact it has on an individual's well-being.

'Ominous' describes something that suggests or indicates a potential danger or harm. It conveys a sense of foreboding or a warning of something bad that may happen. This term is often used in contexts where an atmosphere or event feels menacing, creating an uneasy feeling. In contrast, the other options—showy, humorous, and in disrepair—do not capture the essence of danger or threat implied by 'ominous.'

To "conjecture" refers to forming an opinion or conclusion based on incomplete information, essentially making an educated guess. This term is commonly used in contexts where evidence is insufficient to arrive at a definitive conclusion, prompting individuals to speculate or hypothesize. Unlike attaching, wandering, or shouting, conjecturing involves a cognitive process of inference and assumption, aligning it closely with the act of guessing.

An expatriate refers to an individual who resides in a country different from their country of origin. This term is often used to describe people who move abroad for work, study, or personal reasons, and it emphasizes their temporary or permanent relocation away from their native land. The other options do not accurately define the term, as they pertain to personality traits or conditions rather than the concept of living outside one's homeland.

Coquetry refers to playful and flirtatious behavior, often characterized by a teasing or charming manner intended to attract attention or admiration, typically in a romantic context. It involves a blend of coyness and allure, where one engages in light-hearted interactions to express interest or entice others, usually without serious intentions. This term is commonly associated with social interactions, particularly in romantic pursuits, where charm and wit play significant roles.

An 'anathema' originates from Greek, meaning something or someone that is formally cursed or excommunicated. It often refers to a strong denunciation or condemnation, typically in a religious context. When something is labeled as an anathema, it signifies that it is vehemently rejected or abhorred, akin to a curse placed upon it. This term encapsulates the idea of invoking divine disfavor or strong moral condemnation, making "a curse" the most fitting definition among the options provided.

'Precipitous' refers to something that is extremely steep, often describing a sharp drop or incline. The term is commonly used in geographical contexts, such as cliffs or slopes, where the angle is so steep that it may pose a danger. It conveys a sense of abruptness and can also imply a rapid change or decline in a situation. Thus, when something is labeled as 'precipitous', it indicates a significant steepness rather than any other qualities like showiness, humor, or meanness.

'Ostentatious' describes behavior or actions that are designed to impress or attract notice, often through excessive display or extravagance. This term is commonly used to characterize things like lavish parties, grandiose possessions, or showy behavior that seeks to draw attention from others. The essence of the word lies in its connotation of being overly showy or conspicuous, making 'attracting attention' the most fitting definition among the given options.

Vociferation refers to the act of shouting or making a loud outcry. It is derived from the Latin word "vociferari," meaning to call out or shout. This term is often used to describe situations where someone expresses strong emotions or opinions vocally and emphatically, making their presence and feelings known through loud sounds.

'Jocular' is an adjective derived from the Latin word 'joculus', meaning 'joke'. It describes someone who is characterized by a playful or humorous nature, often making jokes or light-hearted remarks. This term emphasizes a person’s ability to bring joy and laughter to social interactions, contrasting with negative traits like being mean or wandering. Thus, when someone is referred to as jocular, it highlights their humorous disposition.