GRE Word List

LITOTES

understatement in which an affirmative is expressed by the negative of the contrary (as in "not a bad singer" or "not unhappy")

The meaning of the word litotes is understatement in which an affirmative is expressed by the negative of the contrary (as in "not a bad singer" or "not unhappy").

Random words

WordMeaning
pastrya dough that is used to make pies and other baked goods and typically has a high fat content : paste
unexceptionablenot open to objection or criticism : beyond reproach : unimpeachable
aquilinecurving like an eagle's beak
covenanta usually formal, solemn, and binding agreement : compact
oscillateto swing backward and forward like a pendulum
convulsionan abnormal violent and involuntary contraction or series of contractions of the muscles
vitriolicbitterly harsh or caustic language or criticism
hermeticof or relating to the mystical and alchemical writings or teachings arising in the first three centuries a.d.
skimto clear (a liquid) of scum or floating substance
patriarchone of the scriptural fathers of the human race or of the Hebrew people