GRE Word List

IDIOM

an expression in the usage of a language that is peculiar to itself either in having a meaning that cannot be derived from the conjoined meanings of its elements (such as up in the air for "undecided") or in its grammatically atypical use of words (such as give way)

The meaning of the word idiom is an expression in the usage of a language that is peculiar to itself either in having a meaning that cannot be derived from the conjoined meanings of its elements (such as up in the air for "undecided") or in its grammatically atypical use of words (such as give way).

Random words

WordMeaning
venialof a kind that can be remitted : forgivable
puissanthaving puissance : powerful
pathosan element in experience or in artistic representation evoking pity or compassion
harpinga plucked stringed instrument consisting of a resonator, an arched or angled neck that may be supported by a post, and strings of graded length that are perpendicular to the soundboard
metaphora figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them (as in drowning in money)
affrontto insult especially to the face by behavior or language
misogamya hatred of marriage
flaila hand threshing implement consisting of a wooden handle at the end of which a stouter and shorter stick is so hung as to swing freely
plebiscitea vote by which the people of an entire country or district express an opinion for or against a proposal especially on a choice of government or ruler
disheveledmarked by disorder or disarray