3,211 Vocabulary Words

Browse vocabulary for GRE, SAT, TOEFL & IELTS

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

abaseTo lower in rank, prestige, or esteem; to degrade or humble.GRE abasementthe act of humiliating or degrading someone; lowering in rank or esteemSAT abateto become less intense or widespread; to reduceGRE · SAT aberrantdeviating from what is normal or expectedGRE · SAT abeyancea state of suspension or temporary inactivityGRE · SAT abhorto regard with disgust or hatred; to loatheSAT abideto accept or follow a rule; to remain or continue; to tolerateSAT abilitythe power or capacity to do something; skill or talentSAT · IELTS abjureTo formally renounce or reject a belief, cause, or claim.GRE · SAT ablateto remove by evaporation or erosionSAT ablutionthe act of washing or cleansing, especially for religious purposesSAT abnegateTo renounce or reject something desired or valuable, especially through self-den…GRE abnegationthe denial or rejection of something; self-denialSAT abolishto formally put an end to something; to eliminate or eradicateSAT · TOEFL · IELTS abolitionThe formal putting an end to a system or practiceTOEFL aboriginalrelating to the earliest inhabitants of a region; indigenousSAT abrasiverough or coarse in manner; tending to irritate or abradeSAT abrogateTo formally abolish or annul a law, agreement, or custom by authoritative action…GRE · SAT abscissathe x-coordinate of a point in a coordinate systemSAT abscondto leave secretly and hurriedly, typically to avoid detectionGRE · SAT absoluteIn mathematics, the absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on the …GRE · SAT absolute valuethe distance of a number from zero on a number lineSAT absolutionformal release from guilt, obligation, or punishmentSAT absolveTo declare free from blame, guilt, or responsibility.GRE absorbTo take in information or facts fullyTOEFL abstainTo deliberately choose not to do or have something; to refrain.GRE · SAT · TOEFL abstemiousmoderate in eating and drinking; restrainedGRE · SAT abstractExisting in thought or as an idea but not having a concrete physical existenceGRE · SAT · TOEFL · IELTS abstract nounA noun referring to an idea, concept, or qualityTOEFL abstract thinkingThinking about concepts rather than specific instancesTOEFL abstractionThe quality of existing apart from concrete realityTOEFL abstruseExtremely difficult to understand; obscure and recondite.GRE · SAT absurdobviously ridiculous or unreasonable; illogical or nonsensicalSAT abundancea very large quantity of something; plenty or profusionSAT abundantExisting or available in large quantities; plentiful.IELTS abutmentthe part of a structure supporting an arch; something that borders on something …SAT academicRelating to education and scholarship; not of practical relevance.IELTS academic integrityThe ethical code governing honesty in academic workTOEFL academic vocabularyThe words commonly used in academic speech and writingTOEFL accedeto agree to or accept something, often reluctantlySAT accelerateTo begin to move more quickly; to increase the rate of something.SAT · IELTS accelerationthe rate of change of velocity; the second derivative of positionSAT · TOEFL accenta particular way of pronouncing words; emphasis or prominenceSAT acceptto receive or agree to something offered; to tolerate or allowSAT accessthe ability to approach, enter, or use something; to obtain informationSAT accessibleAble to be reached or used; friendly and easy to talk to.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS accidentan unexpected and undesirable event; a chance occurrenceSAT acclaimenthusiastic praise or approval; to praise enthusiasticallySAT acclimateto adapt or adjust to a new environment or situationSAT accoladeAn award or expression of praise and admiration.GRE · SAT accommodateTo provide lodging or space for; to adapt to or make room for.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS accompliSomething that has already been accomplished and is irreversible, used in the ph…GRE accomplicea person who helps another commit a crime or wrongdoingSAT accomplishto complete or achieve something; to fulfill a goalSAT · IELTS accomplishmenta successful completion; an achievementSAT accordan agreement or formal arrangement; to agree or harmonizeSAT accordiona musical instrument with reeds and a keyboardSAT accostto approach and address someone boldly or aggressivelySAT accounta record of financial transactions; a report or explanationSAT · TOEFL account forTo explain the reason for somethingTOEFL accountabilityThe fact or condition of being responsible to others; answerability.IELTS accoutermentsitems of clothing and equipment; accessories or furnishingsSAT accoutrementsclothing or equipment, typically for a particular activitySAT accreditto officially recognize as meeting certain standards; to attributeSAT accreteto grow by addition; to accumulate graduallySAT accrueTo accumulate or receive over time, especially benefits, profits, or advantages.GRE · SAT accruedHaving been accumulated or gathered over a period of time.GRE accumulateTo gather together or acquire an increasing number or quantity of something.TOEFL · IELTS accuracythe quality of being correct or exact; precisionSAT · TOEFL accurateFree from error; exact and correctSAT · TOEFL · IELTS accuseto claim that someone has done something wrong; to charge with a crimeSAT accustomto make familiar through repeated experience; to adjust toSAT acerbicSharp, forthright, and harsh in tone or manner, especially of speech or commenta…GRE · SAT acerbitysharpness or harshness of tone or manner; bitternessSAT acetatea salt or ester of acetic acidSAT achea continuous dull pain; to suffer or yearn for somethingSAT achieveTo successfully bring about or reach a desired objective or result.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS achievementA thing done successfully, typically by effort, courage, or skill.SAT · IELTS acida chemical substance with pH less than 7; sharp or biting in tasteSAT · TOEFL acidulousslightly sour; mildly harsh or criticalSAT acknowledgeto admit or recognize something as true; to show appreciationSAT · TOEFL · IELTS acknowledgmentA statement recognizing someone's contributionTOEFL acmethe highest point or peak; the pinnacle of achievementSAT acnea skin condition characterized by pimples and lesionsSAT acousticrelating to sound or hearing; designed to absorb soundSAT acquaintto make someone familiar with something; to introduceSAT acquiesceto accept or agree without protest; to comply passivelySAT acquireTo come to possess something through effort or experienceSAT · TOEFL acquisitionsomething newly obtained; the act of acquiringSAT acquitto declare someone not guilty; to conduct oneselfSAT acrea unit of land area equal to 4,840 square yardsSAT acridhaving a bitter, pungent smell or taste; sharp and causticSAT acrimoniousAngry and bitter in tone or disposition, especially in speech or debate.GRE · SAT acrimonyharshness or bitterness in tone or manner; hostilitySAT acrobata person who performs gymnastic feats or balancing actsSAT acronyma word formed from the initial letters of other wordsSAT acronymsplural of acronym; multiple words formed from initial lettersSAT acrophobiaextreme or irrational fear of heightsSAT acropolisa citadel or upper city of an ancient Greek city-stateSAT acrossfrom one side to another; spanning somethingSAT acrylica synthetic fiber or paint made from acrylic resinSAT actto perform an action; a deed or law; a part of a playSAT actingperforming in theatrical or film productions; temporary service in a roleSAT actinideany of a series of radioactive chemical elementsSAT actionthe fact or process of doing something; a movement or gestureSAT activateTo make something active or operative; to set in motion.SAT · IELTS activeengaging in action; involved in activities; energeticSAT active voiceA grammatical form where the subject performs the actionTOEFL activelyIn an energetic and engaged mannerTOEFL activitythe condition of engaging in action; a pursuit or hobbySAT actora person who performs in theatrical or film productionsSAT actualexisting or occurring in reality; factual or genuineSAT actualizeto make something actual or real; to realizeSAT actuallyAs the truth or facts of a situation; really or in fact.IELTS acuitysharpness of perception or thought; keenness of visionSAT acumenThe ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, especially in a particul…GRE acutePresent or experienced to a severe or intense degree; requiring immediate attent…SAT · TOEFL · IELTS acute anglean angle less than 90 degreesSAT ad-libto perform or speak without preparation; improvisationSAT adagea short, traditional saying expressing a truth or observationSAT adamantRefusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind; utterly unyielding.GRE · SAT adamantineunyielding or inflexible; hard like adamantSAT adaptTo become adjusted to new conditions; to modify for a new purpose.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS adaptationThe process of changing to suit different conditions; an altered form of somethi…TOEFL · IELTS adaptora device for connecting pieces of equipment; one who adaptsSAT addto put together numbers to find the total; to include or appendSAT addenda number that is added to another in arithmeticSAT addenduma section added to the end of a book or documentSAT addicta person dependent on a substance or habit; to cause dependenceSAT addictionthe condition of being dependent on a substance or behaviorSAT additionA basic arithmetic operation that combines two or more numbers to find their tot…GRE · TOEFL additivea substance added to something to improve it; characterized by additionSAT addressthe location of a building; to speak to someone; to deal withSAT adenoida mass of tissue in the throat; relating to glandsSAT adeptskilled or proficient at something; expertSAT adequateSatisfactory or acceptable in quality or quantity; sufficient.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS adhereto stick fast to something; to follow or support closelySAT adherenta follower or supporter; sticking firmly to somethingSAT adhesivesticky or tending to stick; a substance used for stickingSAT adiposerelating to or composed of fat tissueSAT adjacentIn geometry, lying next to or sharing a common side, vertex, or boundary without…GRE · SAT · TOEFL · IELTS adjectivea word that describes or modifies a nounSAT adjointo be next to and connected with somethingSAT adjournto postpone or end a meeting; to suspend proceedingsSAT adjournmentthe ending of a meeting or session; a postponementSAT adjudicateto make an official decision or judgment; to settle a disputeSAT adjudicativerelating to the process of hearing and settling a disputeSAT adjunctSomething added or attached in a supplementary rather than essential capacity.GRE · SAT adjureto command or urge solemnly; to swear under oathSAT adjustto change slightly to fit or work better; to adaptSAT adjustmenta small change made to improve something; adaptationSAT adjutanta military officer who assists a commanding officerSAT admassa large audience targeted by mass advertisingSAT admeasureto ascertain the dimensions or area of; to measure outSAT administerTo manage and be responsible for the running of a business, organisation, or ins…SAT · TOEFL · IELTS administrationthe management of affairs; the group managing an organizationSAT · TOEFL admirableworthy of praise or approval; excellent or impressiveSAT admirala high-ranking naval officer; commander of a fleetSAT admirationa feeling of respect and approval; esteemSAT admireto regard with approval or respect; to wonder atSAT · IELTS admissibleacceptable or allowable, especially as evidence in courtSAT admissionthe act of allowing someone to enter; acknowledgment of truthSAT admitto allow someone to enter; to acknowledge or confessSAT admittedlyUsed to introduce a concession or unwelcome fact.SAT · IELTS admixturea mixture; something added and mixed with something elseSAT admonishTo warn or reprimand someone firmly but not harshly.GRE · SAT admonitiona warning or expression of disapproval; adviceSAT adolescencethe period of development from childhood to adulthoodSAT adolescentA young person in the process of developing into an adultSAT · TOEFL adoptto legally take a child as your own; to assume or acceptSAT adoptionThe action of taking on or beginning to use something new; legally taking a chil…SAT · IELTS adorableextremely charming or appealing; worthy of loveSAT adorationintense love or respect; the act of worshippingSAT adoreto love deeply; to worship or revereSAT adornto make attractive by adding decorative items; to decorateSAT adornmenta decorative item or embellishment; decorationSAT adrenalrelating to glands above the kidneys that produce hormonesSAT adriftfloating or without direction; aimless or uncertainSAT adroitclever and skillful, especially with hands; mentally sharpSAT adulationexcessive flattery or praise; excessive admirationSAT adulta fully grown person; mature or developedSAT adulteranta substance added that makes something impure or inferiorSAT adulterateto make something less pure by adding an inferior substanceGRE · SAT adulteryvoluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and someone other than the…SAT adulthoodthe state of being a fully grown personSAT adumbrateto show or suggest faintly; to foreshadowSAT advanceto move forward; to promote progress; money given before paymentSAT advancedfurther along in development; complex or sophisticatedSAT advancementprogress or improvement; promotion to a higher positionSAT advantagea favorable circumstance or benefit; superioritySAT · TOEFL advantageousproviding a favorable condition or benefit; profitableSAT adventthe arrival or coming of an important event; beginningSAT · IELTS adventitioushappening by chance; accidental; added externallySAT adventurean exciting or unusual experience; an undertaking of unknown outcomeSAT adventurouswilling to undertake new and risky ventures; daringSAT adverba word that modifies or describes a verb, adjective, or another adverbSAT adversarialinvolving conflict or opposition; hostileSAT adversaryone's opponent in a contest, conflict, or disagreementSAT adversePreventing success or development; harmful; unfavourable.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS adversitydifficult or unfortunate circumstances; hardshipSAT advertto mention or refer to something; an advertisementSAT advertenceattention or awareness; heedfulnessSAT advertiseto describe and promote a product in media; to make widely knownSAT advertisementa public notice or promotion of a product or serviceSAT adviceguidance or recommendations offered based on knowledge or experienceSAT advisablerecommended as sensible or prudent; wise to doSAT adviseto offer suggestions about the best course of action; to informSAT advisera person who offers advice or guidance; a consultantSAT advisoryoffering advice or information; related to adviceSAT advocacypublic support for a cause; the act of advocatingSAT advocateTo publicly recommend or support a particular cause or policy.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS aegisprotection or sponsorship; under the auspices ofSAT aerateto expose to air or introduce air intoSAT aerialrelating to the air or atmosphere; from or through the airSAT aerobicRelating to or requiring the presence of oxygenTOEFL aerodynamicdesigned to move through air with minimal resistanceSAT aerosolTiny particles suspended in a gasTOEFL aestheticconcerned with beauty or appreciation of beauty; artisticGRE · SAT affabilitythe quality of being friendly and easy to talk toSAT affablefriendly and easy to talk to; approachableSAT affairan event or matter of concern; a romantic or sexual relationshipSAT affectTo have an effect on; to make a difference to.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS affectationan artificial or exaggerated manner; pretenseSAT affectedartificial or pretentious; emotionally movedSAT affectiona gentle feeling of liking or love; fondnessSAT affectionatereadily feeling or showing feelings of love or fondnessSAT affidavita written statement confirmed under oath before a judgeSAT affiliateto connect or associate with; a member organizationSAT affiliationthe state of being affiliated; a connection or associationSAT affinitya natural attraction or feeling of kinship; a similaritySAT affirmto assert or confirm something to be true; to ratifySAT · TOEFL affirmationa statement confirming something is true; assertionSAT affirmativerelating to or expressing agreement or confirmationSAT affixto attach or fasten to something; a prefix or suffixSAT afflatusa creative impulse or divine inspirationSAT afflictto cause pain, suffering, or distress to someoneSAT afflictionpain, suffering, or distress; a source of miserySAT affluenceabundance of money or material possessions; wealthSAT affluenthaving abundant money or possessions; wealthySAT · TOEFL · IELTS affordTo have enough money, time, or means to do or have something.SAT · IELTS affordable housingResidential housing that is priced so that people on low or moderate incomes can…IELTS afforestto plant trees on land that was not previously forestedSAT affrontan insulting or disrespectful action; to insult or offendSAT afireon fire or burning; aroused or excitedSAT aflameburning with flames; excited or passionateSAT afloatfloating on water; in circulation or operationSAT afootin progress; happening or about to happenSAT aforementionedpreviously mentioned or named; aforesaidSAT afraidfeeling fear or apprehension; regrettablySAT afreshin a new or different way; againSAT afttoward the stern of a ship; at the backSAT aftercoming or following in time; behind in spaceSAT aftermaththe period following an event, especially a traumatic oneSAT aftermostfarthest back or behind; the rear partSAT afternoonthe time of day between noon and eveningSAT aftershocka smaller earthquake that follows the main quakeSAT afterthoughtan idea or comment occurring to one after an eventSAT afterwardat a later or future time; subsequentlySAT afterworda concluding section of a book; remarks at the endSAT againonce more; returning to a previous conditionSAT againstin opposition to; in contact with; as a defenseSAT agatea type of banded mineral used in jewelrySAT agethe length of time something has existed; to grow olderSAT agedadvanced in age; old; made to appear oldSAT ageingThe process of growing older; the characteristic changes that come with age.IELTS agelessnot affected by age; eternal or timelessSAT agencyan organization or firm providing a service; action or meansSAT agendaa list of items to be discussed; a hidden purposeSAT agenta person or thing that takes action; a representativeSAT agglomerateto gather into a mass or cluster; a collection of thingsSAT agglutinateto stick together with glue; to join togetherSAT aggrandizeto increase in power or wealth; to make appear greaterGRE · SAT aggrandizementthe act of making something appear greater; exaggerationSAT aggravateTo make a problem, injury, or offense worse or more serious.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS aggravationthe act of making worse; annoyance or irritationSAT aggregateA whole formed by combining several separate elements.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS aggressionhostile or violent behavior or attitudes; an unprovoked attackSAT aggressiveReady to attack; showing anger; pursuing goals forcefullySAT · TOEFL aggrievedfeeling resentment at being treated unfairly; angrySAT aghastfilled with horror or shock; appalledSAT agileable to move quickly and easily; mentally sharp and quickSAT agilitythe ability to move quickly and easily; mental sharpnessSAT agitateTo make someone troubled; to campaign for changeTOEFL agitationthe state of being mentally disturbed; rapid movement or shakingSAT agitatora person who stirs up feelings or causes unrest; a device that shakesSAT agonisticrelating to struggle or contest; combativeSAT agonizeto suffer greatly in mind; to worry intenselySAT agonyintense pain or suffering; extreme anguishSAT agrarianrelating to agriculture or land ownershipSAT agreeablepleasant and acceptable; willing to agreeSAT agreeingconsenting or permitting; in harmonySAT agribusinessAgriculture conducted on commercial principles, especially using advanced techno…IELTS agriculturalRelating to agricultureTOEFL agricultureThe science or practice of farming, including cultivation of the soil and raisin…IELTS agronomista scientist who specializes in crops and soilSAT agronomythe science of crops and soil; the study of agricultureSAT aguea fever with fits of shaking; a chill or fitSAT aheadin front; at or to the front; in advanceSAT aheman exclamation used to attract attention or express doubtSAT ahistoricalignoring historical context; not historically accurateSAT aidHelp or support given to someoneTOEFL aimA purpose or intention; to direct toward a goalTOEFL airthe invisible gas surrounding the Earth; to broadcast or exposeSAT alacritybrisk and cheerful readiness; eagernessGRE · SAT alarmingCausing concern or anxiety; worrying.IELTS albeitAlthough; even though.IELTS alchemya medieval forerunner of chemistry; seemingly magical transformationSAT alertQuick to notice problems; a warning signalTOEFL algaeSimple non-flowering plants, typically found in waterTOEFL algorithmA step-by-step procedure or set of rules for solving a mathematical problem or p…GRE · SAT · IELTS alibian excuse or defense that proves one was elsewhere at the timeSAT allayto calm or reduce fears, doubts, or anxietySAT allegationa claim or assertion that someone has done something wrongSAT allegorya story or painting with a hidden meaning; symbolic representationSAT alleleA variant of a gene that produces a different traitTOEFL alleviateto make easier or less severe; to reduce pain or distressGRE · SAT · TOEFL alleviationthe act of making something less severe or burdensomeSAT alleya narrow passageway between buildings; a bowling laneSAT alliancea union or association formed for a common purposeSAT · TOEFL alliedjoined together in an alliance; connected by similar interestsSAT allocateTo distribute resources or duties for a particular purpose.TOEFL · IELTS allocationthe distribution or assignment of resources or dutiesSAT allotto distribute or assign something to someoneSAT allotmenta share or portion of something assigned; a small piece of landSAT alloya mixture of two or more metals; to mix metalsSAT · TOEFL allureto attract or tempt someone with the promise of something desirableGRE · SAT allusionan indirect or passing reference to somethingSAT alluvialrelating to or composed of alluvium (fine sediment deposited by water)SAT almightyhaving unlimited power; omnipotentSAT almsmoney or goods given to poor people out of charitySAT alofthigh in the air; up aboveSAT alongsideSide by side with something elseTOEFL aloofdistant, unfriendly, or uninvolved; detachedSAT aloudaudibly; spoken so as to be heardSAT alpinerelating to high mountains; growing on mountainsSAT alterTo change or cause to change in characterTOEFL alterationThe process of making changesTOEFL alternativeAvailable as another possibility or choice; one of two or more available possibi…TOEFL · IELTS altitudeThe height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level.SAT · IELTS altruismthe practice of selfless concern for the well-being of othersSAT amalgamA mixture or blend of different elements or qualities.GRE amalgamatejoined together into a wholeGRE amassto gather or accumulate a large quantity of somethingSAT ambiguitythe quality of being open to more than one interpretationSAT · TOEFL ambiguousOpen to more than one interpretation; having a double meaning.GRE · SAT · TOEFL · IELTS ambitionA strong desire to do or achieve something, typically requiring determination an…IELTS ambitiousHaving a strong desire and determination to succeed; requiring exceptional effor…TOEFL · IELTS ambivalencethe state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideasGRE · SAT ambivalentHaving mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS ambrosiaSomething extremely pleasing to taste or smell; by extension, anything supremely…GRE ambulatoryable to walk around; relating to walkingSAT ameliorateto make something better; to improveGRE · SAT ameliorationthe act of making something better; improvementSAT amenablewilling to be responsive; open to; liable toSAT amendTo make changes to improve or correct somethingTOEFL amenitya desirable feature that increases the value of somethingSAT amiablefriendly, good-natured, and agreeableSAT amicablerelating to or characterized by friendliness and agreementSAT amidsurrounded by; in the middle ofSAT amisswrong or improper; not as expected or desiredSAT amitya friendly relationship between people or countriesSAT ammunitionbullets and bombs; material or information used as a weaponSAT amnesialoss of memory, especially due to trauma or diseaseSAT amnestyan official pardon for people who have been convicted of crimesSAT amokin a wild or uncontrolled manner; running amokSAT amorousshowing or feeling romantic love or desireSAT amorphouswithout a clear shape or form; vague or undefinedSAT amounta quantity or total; to add up toSAT amphibianan animal that lives both in water and on landSAT amphitheateran open building with tiers of seats rising around a central arenaSAT ampleabundant or plentiful; more than enoughSAT · TOEFL amplifyto increase in strength or effect; to make louderSAT amplitudethe maximum extent of variation from a center value; in waves, half the distance…SAT · TOEFL ampulea small sealed vial containing a single dose of medicationSAT anachronismsomething or someone placed in the wrong time period; an error in timingGRE · SAT anaerobicable to live without oxygen; relating to organisms that don't require airSAT · TOEFL anagrama word formed by rearranging the letters of another wordSAT analgesica medicine used to relieve pain without losing consciousnessSAT analogsomething that corresponds to or is comparable to something elseSAT analogouscomparable in certain respects; having similar featuresGRE · SAT · TOEFL analogyA comparison between two things for the purpose of explanation or clarification.GRE · SAT · TOEFL · IELTS analyseTo examine methodically by separating into parts and studying their interrelatio…IELTS analyticIn mathematics, relating to or using analysis, particularly the use of algebraic…GRE analytic geometrythe study of geometry using algebraic equations and coordinatesSAT analyticalRelating to the detailed examination of somethingTOEFL analyzeTo examine something in detail in order to understand itTOEFL anarchista person who seeks to overthrow government or established orderSAT anarchya state of disorder; absence of government or controlGRE · SAT anathemaSomething or someone that is intensely disliked or loathed.GRE anatomizeto dissect; to examine in detailSAT anatomyThe branch of science concerned with the bodily structure of organisms.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS ancestora person from whom one is descended; a forerunnerSAT ancientBelonging to the very distant past; very old.IELTS ancillaryproviding support; subsidiary or subordinateSAT anecdotea short, interesting story about a real person or eventSAT · TOEFL anglethe figure formed by two rays sharing an endpointSAT animatedalive with enthusiasm, excitement, or energy; livelySAT animositystrong dislike or hostility; bitter enmitySAT annexto add or attach something; a building added to a main structureSAT annihilateto destroy completely; to eliminate entirelySAT annotateto add notes or comments to a text or documentSAT · TOEFL annotationA note added to explain or comment on a textTOEFL annoyingCausing irritation or slight anger.IELTS annuallyEvery year; once a year.IELTS annulusthe region between two concentric circlesSAT anomalousdeviating from the general or common order or typeGRE anomalySomething that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.GRE · SAT · TOEFL anonymouswith no name or identity acknowledged; of unknown authorshipSAT antacida substance that neutralizes acid; relieving heartburnSAT antagonismactive opposition or hostility between people or thingsSAT antagonisticshowing or feeling active opposition or hostilitySAT antediluvianof or belonging to the time before the biblical flood; extremely oldGRE · SAT anthologyA published collection of literary works, such as poems or stories, chosen by a …GRE · SAT anthropocentrismthe belief that human beings are the central element of the universeSAT anthropologyThe study of human societies, cultures, and their development.IELTS antibodyA protein produced by the immune system to fight pathogensTOEFL anticipateTo regard as probable and make preparations for; to expect.TOEFL · IELTS anticipatoryComing before and preparing for something elseTOEFL antiderivativea function whose derivative is the given function; integralSAT antigenA substance that triggers an immune responseTOEFL antipathya strong feeling of dislike or opposition; aversionGRE · SAT antiquatedold-fashioned or outdated; no longer in general useSAT antithesisthe direct opposite; a contrast or oppositionSAT anxiousExperiencing worry, unease, or nervousness about an uncertain matter.IELTS apatheticshowing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concernSAT apathylack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern; indifferenceGRE · SAT aperturean opening or gap; a hole through which light enters a cameraSAT apexthe top or highest point; the peak or culminationSAT aphorisma concise, memorable statement of a truth or opinionSAT aplombSelf-confident composure and poise, especially under pressure.GRE apocryphalOf doubtful authenticity, although widely circulated as being true.GRE · SAT apoliticalnot interested in or concerned with politicsSAT apologya statement expressing regret for an offense; a defense or justificationSAT apostatea person who abandons or renounces their religion or principlesSAT apothemThe perpendicular distance from the center of a regular polygon to the midpoint …GRE · SAT apotheosisThe highest point of development or the perfect example of something; the elevat…GRE · SAT appallto shock or horrify deeply; to cause dismaySAT apparatusa set of equipment designed for a particular purpose; a systemSAT apparelclothing or garments; to dress or clotheSAT apparentclearly visible or understood; seeming or appearing to be trueSAT · TOEFL · IELTS apparitiona ghost or phantom; an unexpected appearanceSAT appealto make an earnest or formal request; to be attractive or interestingSAT · TOEFL appeaseto pacify or calm someone; to satisfy a demand or needGRE · SAT appellaterelating to appeals or the legal process of appealing a decisionSAT appellationa name or title given to someone or somethingSAT appendto add or attach something to the end of a document or listSAT appendagea body part attached to the main trunk; something added as secondarySAT appendixA section at the end of a document with additional materialTOEFL applicationThe practical use of somethingTOEFL appreciateTo recognise the value or significance of something; to be grateful for somethin…IELTS apprehendto arrest or capture someone; to understand or perceiveSAT apprehensionanxiety or fear about a future event; understanding or perceptionSAT apprenticea person learning a trade from a skilled worker; to train as an apprenticeSAT apprenticeshipA period of time when someone learns a trade or craft from an experienced person…IELTS appriseto inform or notify someone; to make awareGRE · SAT approachto come near or closer to something; a method or way of dealingSAT · IELTS approbationapproval or consent; official sanction or agreementGRE · SAT appropriatesuitable or proper for a particular situation; to take or adoptGRE · SAT · TOEFL · IELTS appropriate registerThe level of formality suited to the contextTOEFL approximateClose to the actual but not completely accurateSAT · TOEFL approximationA value or quantity that is nearly but not exactly correctTOEFL aptitudenatural ability or skill at something; talent or capacitySAT aquaticRelating to or living in water.IELTS aqueducta channel or pipe for conveying water; a bridge-like structureSAT aquiferAn underground layer of rock that holds waterTOEFL arbitera person chosen to settle a dispute; one who has control or powerSAT arbitrarybased on random choice or judgment rather than reason; capriciousSAT arbitrationthe settlement of a dispute by an agreed upon third partySAT arborealrelating to or living in trees; tree-dwellingSAT arcA portion of the circumference of a circle or other curve.GRE · SAT archaeologicalRelating to the study of human history through excavation of sites and analysis …IELTS archaicVery old or old-fashioned; belonging to a much earlier period.GRE ardorfeelings of great warmth and intensityGRE areathe amount of space enclosed by a two-dimensional figureSAT argueTo give reasons or evidence in support of an idea or opinion.TOEFL · IELTS argumentin functions, the independent variable; input to a functionSAT · TOEFL argument mappingA visual technique for displaying an argument's structureTOEFL argumentationThe process of presenting a reasoned caseTOEFL aridHaving little or no rain; dry; lacking in interest.IELTS arithmeticThe branch of mathematics dealing with the properties and manipulation of number…GRE · SAT arithmetic sequencea sequence where each term differs from the previous by a constant amountSAT arrangementThe way in which parts of something are organizedTOEFL arrayan arrangement of numbers or objects in rows and columnsSAT arrestTo stop or check the progress or movement of something.GRE articulateTo express ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writingTOEFL · IELTS artificialMade or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally; insincere.IELTS artificial intelligenceThe simulation of human intelligence processes by computer systems.IELTS artlesssimple and natural; without cunning or deceitGRE ascendingmoving upward in value or order; increasingSAT ascertainTo find out or learn with certainty through examination or investigation.GRE asceticsomeone who practices self denial as a spiritual disciplineGRE aspectA particular part or feature of something.TOEFL · IELTS asperityHarshness or severity of tone or manner.GRE aspersionAn attack on the reputation or integrity of someone or something.GRE aspireTo direct one's hopes toward achieving something.IELTS assertTo state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.TOEFL · IELTS assertionA confident statement of fact or beliefTOEFL assessTo evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of something.TOEFL · IELTS assiduousmarked by care and persistent effortGRE assimilateTo absorb and integrate people, ideas, or information into a wider society or st…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS assistanceThe action of helping someone with a task or difficulty; help.IELTS assuageprovide physical relief, as from painGRE assumeTo suppose something to be the case without proof.TOEFL · IELTS assumptionA thing that is accepted as true or certain to happen without proof.TOEFL · IELTS asteroidA small rocky body orbiting the SunTOEFL astringentSharp or severe in manner or style; cutting.GRE astronomerA scientist who studies celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a…IELTS astronomyThe branch of science dealing with celestial objects, space, and the physical un…IELTS asylumProtection or shelter from danger, especially political protection granted by a …GRE asymptoteA line that a curve approaches arbitrarily closely but never actually reaches or…GRE · SAT atmosphereThe pervading tone or mood of a place or situation.TOEFL · IELTS atmosphericRelating to the atmosphere of the earth or another planet.IELTS atomThe smallest unit of a chemical elementTOEFL attemptTo make an effort to do or achieve something; an act of trying to do something.IELTS attend toTo pay attention to and process carefullyTOEFL attentivePaying close attention; considerateTOEFL attitudeA settled way of thinking or feeling about something.TOEFL · IELTS attributeA quality or characteristic belonging to something; to regard as caused byTOEFL · IELTS audaciousdisposed to venture or take risksGRE audienceThe readers or listeners a text or speech is aimed atTOEFL augmentTo make something greater by adding to it; to increase or supplement.GRE auspiciousfavorable or showing signs of future success; promisingSAT austereof a stern or strict bearing or demeanorGRE austerityReduced availability of money and difficult economic conditions.IELTS authenticOf undisputed origin; genuine; true to one's own values.IELTS authorityThe power or right to give orders or make decisionsTOEFL automationThe use of largely automatic equipment to replace human labour in manufacturing …IELTS autonomousHaving the freedom to govern itself or control its own affairs; independent.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS avaricereprehensible acquisitiveness; insatiable desire for wealthGRE avenueA way or means of achieving somethingTOEFL aversionA strong feeling of dislike or disinclination toward something.GRE axioma statement accepted as true without proof; a fundamental principleSAT axisA fixed reference line used in a coordinate system to specify the position of a …GRE · SAT

B

backgroundA person's experience or knowledge base; a contextTOEFL background informationContext provided to help readers understand a topicTOEFL background noiseSound present that is not part of the main signalTOEFL bacteriaMicroscopic single-celled organisms found in large numbers across the environmen…TOEFL · IELTS balanceA state of equilibrium; to keep in a steady position.TOEFL · IELTS bandA range of frequencies or values; in IELTS context, a score level.IELTS bandwidthA range of frequencies within a given band; the capacity of a network connection…IELTS bardA poet, especially one who writes lyrical or epic verse.GRE bareLacking the appropriate or usual covering; minimal.IELTS barrierA fence or other obstacle that prevents movement or access; a problem that preve…TOEFL · IELTS basethe number system used (e.g., base 10); the bottom side of a polygonSAT · TOEFL basisa set of linearly independent vectors spanning a vector spaceSAT bayesianRelating to a statistical method in which probabilities are updated as new evide…GRE behemothSomething enormous in size or power.GRE bellicoseDemonstrating aggression and willingness to fight.GRE belongingsThe things that belong to a person; personal possessions.IELTS beneathExtending or directly underneath; unworthy of someone.IELTS beneficialResulting in good; favourable or advantageous.IELTS benefitAn advantage or profit gained from something.TOEFL · IELTS benevolentWell-meaning and kindly; characterized by doing good.GRE · SAT benignharmless or not dangerous; kind and gentleGRE · SAT besmirchTo damage the reputation of; to sully or tarnish.GRE biasInclination or prejudice for or against one person or group; unfair preference.TOEFL · IELTS bibliographicRelating to the cataloguing of books or sourcesTOEFL bifurcateto divide into two branches or partsSAT bigotnarrow-minded person intolerant of others' views or backgroundsSAT biliousBad-tempered or ill-natured; splenetic.GRE bilkto cheat or defraud someone of money or possessionsSAT billowingswelling outward and moving in large waves; rolling and surgingSAT binomialAn algebraic expression consisting of two terms connected by a plus or minus sig…GRE · SAT biodegradableCapable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.IELTS biodiversityThe variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.TOEFL · IELTS biodiversity hotspotA biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity that is under thr…IELTS biodiversity lossThe decline in the variety of life forms on Earth.IELTS bioethicsThe branch of ethics applied to issues arising from advances in biology and medi…IELTS biofuelA fuel derived immediately from living matter rather than fossil fuels.TOEFL · IELTS biologicalRelating to biology or living organisms.IELTS bioluminescenceThe emission of light by living organismsTOEFL biomassThe total mass of organisms in a given area or volumeTOEFL biomeA large naturally occurring community of flora and faunaTOEFL biotechnologyThe use of living organisms in industrial or medical processesTOEFL birth rateThe number of births per thousand of population per year.IELTS bisectTo divide a line segment, angle, or shape into two equal parts.GRE · SAT blandishmentA flattering or pleasing statement or action used to persuade someone gently.GRE blasphemyspeaking sacrilegiously about God or sacred thingsSAT blatantdone openly and unashamedly; flagrantly obviousSAT blighteddamaged or destroyed by disease, pollution, or misfortuneSAT blitheShowing a casual and cheerful indifference considered to be improper or callous.GRE · SAT block quotationA long quotation set apart from the main textTOEFL blockchainA system for recording information that is very difficult to change or hack.IELTS blunderbussan old type of gun; a clumsy or unsubtle personSAT bodyThe main section of a text between introduction and conclusionTOEFL body paragraphA paragraph that develops a main idea in an essayTOEFL boiling pointThe temperature at which a liquid turns to vaporTOEFL bolsterto support or strengthen; to give a boost toGRE · SAT · TOEFL bombastarrogant, pompous language or behavior; inflated speechSAT bombasticostentatiously lofty in styleGRE bondA connection between people; something that ties people together.IELTS boorishill-mannered and coarse in behavior or appearanceGRE · SAT boredomThe state of feeling weary and impatient because one is unoccupied.IELTS bottom-up processingBuilding understanding from individual sounds and words upwardTOEFL boundaryA line that marks the limits of an area; a dividing line.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS bourgeoisBelonging to or characteristic of the middle class, typically with reference to …GRE · SAT bowdlerizeTo remove material considered improper or offensive from a text, thereby weakeni…GRE bracketsymbols like [ ] or { } used to group terms in expressionsSAT braggarta person who boasts about their achievements or possessionsSAT brain drainThe emigration of highly trained or qualified people from a particular country.IELTS brawnyphysically strong; having well-developed musclesSAT breadthThe extent of something from side to side; rangeTOEFL brevityshortness or conciseness, especially in speech or writingSAT · TOEFL brilliantVery clever or talented; outstandingly good.IELTS bristleto react with hostility or anger; to show irritationSAT broachTo raise a sensitive or difficult subject for discussion.GRE · SAT broadWide; covering a large number and wide scope of subjects.TOEFL · IELTS broadlyIn a general way; not in detailTOEFL browseTo read or look through something casuallyTOEFL brusqueMarkedly short and abrupt in manner or speech; rudely curt.GRE · SAT bucolicRelating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside and rural life.GRE bufferA solution resisting changes in pHTOEFL build uponTo develop an existing idea furtherTOEFL bulwarka defensive wall; a thing providing protection or defenseSAT bureaucracyA system of government in which most important decisions are made by officials r…SAT · IELTS burgeonto begin to grow or increase rapidly; to flourishGRE · SAT burgeoningBeginning to grow or increase rapidly; flourishing.IELTS burnishto polish by rubbing; to make shiny or brightGRE · SAT buttressto increase the strength of; to support or reinforceGRE · SAT bylinea line in a newspaper or magazine naming the author of an articleSAT bystanderA person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part.IELTS

C

cabalA secret political group or faction engaged in plotting.GRE cacophonya harsh, discordant mixture of soundsGRE · SAT cajoleto persuade someone to do something by flattery; to coaxSAT calculateTo determine a numerical result by performing mathematical operations such as ad…GRE · SAT calculationA mathematical computationTOEFL calculusThe branch of mathematics that studies continuous change through derivatives (di…GRE · SAT caldrona large cooking pot; a situation with a mix of volatile elementsSAT calibrationThe process of configuring a measuring instrumentTOEFL callousemotionally hardened; unfeeling; indifferent to others' sufferingSAT callowinexperienced and immature; young and naiveSAT candidTruthful and straightforward; not hiding what you think.SAT · IELTS candorthe quality of being open, honest, and direct; franknessGRE · SAT canonA collection of works or principles accepted as genuine, authoritative, or repre…GRE cantankerousbad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperativeSAT canyonA deep gorge, typically one with a river flowing through it.IELTS capabilityThe power or ability to do something; a feature or faculty allowing performance.IELTS capableHaving the ability, fitness, or quality necessary to do somethingTOEFL capacioushaving a lot of space inside; roomySAT capacityThe maximum amount that something can contain; the ability to do something.TOEFL · IELTS capillaryA very narrow tube or blood vesselTOEFL capitalismAn economic and political system in which trade and industry are controlled by p…IELTS capitulateTo cease resisting and surrender to an opponent or demand.GRE · SAT capriciousdetermined by chance or impulse rather than by necessityGRE · SAT captionA brief description below an image or figureTOEFL captiousTending to find fault or raise petty objections.GRE captureTo record or express something accuratelyTOEFL carbohydrateAn organic compound including sugars and starchesTOEFL carbonA chemical element; a key component of greenhouse gases causing climate change.IELTS carbon cycleThe process by which carbon is exchanged between organisms and the environmentTOEFL carbon dioxideA gas produced by burning carbon and respirationTOEFL carbon footprintThe amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted by someone's act…IELTS carbon neutralMaking no net release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.IELTS cardinalOf the greatest importance; fundamental.GRE cardinal numbera number indicating quantity rather than order (1, 2, 3...) rather than (1st, 2n…SAT caricatureA ludicrously exaggerated representation of someone or something.GRE carpingdifficult to please; excessive criticism of minor faultsSAT cartesianRelating to the coordinate system that specifies each point in a plane by a pair…GRE cartesian coordinatea coordinate system using perpendicular axes to locate pointsSAT cartographera person who draws or produces mapsSAT case studyA detailed study of a specific subjectTOEFL castigateTo reprimand someone severely; to criticize harshly.GRE · SAT castigationverbal punishmentGRE casualRelaxed and unconcerned; not regular or permanent.IELTS catalystA substance that increases the rate of a reaction without being consumedGRE · SAT · TOEFL catastrophicInvolving or causing sudden great damage or suffering.IELTS categoricalinvolving categorization; relating to categoriesSAT categoryA class or division of people or things regarded as having particular shared cha…TOEFL · IELTS catharsisThe process of releasing strong or repressed emotions, resulting in relief or re…GRE · SAT catharticproviding psychological relief or purification; emotionally cleansingSAT caucusa meeting of members of a political party; a group with shared interestsSAT caulkTo seal a joint or seam against leakage; by extension, to fill in gaps or cracks…GRE causalRelating to or acting as a causeTOEFL cause and effectThe relationship between actions and their resultsTOEFL causticcapable of destroying or eating away by chemical actionGRE · SAT cautiousBeing careful to avoid potential problems or dangersTOEFL cavalcadea procession of vehicles or riders; a series of eventsSAT ceaseTo stop doing something or bring something to an endTOEFL ceiling functiona function that rounds a number up to the nearest integerSAT celerityswiftness of movement; speedSAT celestialPositioned in or relating to the sky or outer space; heavenly.GRE cell divisionThe process by which a cell splits into daughter cellsTOEFL cell membraneThe thin flexible boundary surrounding each cellTOEFL censoriousseverely critical of others; fault-findingSAT censorshipThe suppression or prohibition of speech, public communication, or information.IELTS censureto express severe disapproval or to reprimand formallyGRE · SAT centerthe middle point of a circle or sphere; the point of symmetrySAT centimetera unit of length equal to one-hundredth of a meterSAT centralOf the greatest importance; principal; fundamental.IELTS central limit theorema fundamental theorem stating that sample means follow a normal distributionSAT centroidThe geometric center of a shape, calculated as the average position of all point…GRE · SAT cerebralappealing to the intellect; intellectual rather than emotionalSAT certainEstablished beyond doubt; specific but not namedTOEFL certitudeabsolute certainty or convictionSAT challengeTo question or dispute the truth or validity of something; a difficult task.TOEFL · IELTS challengingTesting one's abilities in a stimulating wayTOEFL championTo vigorously support or defend a cause or person.GRE chapterA division of a book or academic textTOEFL characteristicA feature or quality belonging typically to a person, place, or thing.TOEFL · IELTS characterizeTo describe the distinctive qualities of somethingTOEFL charlatana person who falsely claims to have expertise or skillsSAT charycautious or wary; hesitant; sparing in givingSAT chastenTo restrain or moderate; to make someone feel subdued or humbled, often through …GRE chastisesreprimands or punishes someone severelySAT chauvinista person with a prejudiced belief in their own superiorityGRE chemical bondAn attraction between atoms that allows chemical compounds to formTOEFL chemical reactionA process in which molecules interact and are transformedTOEFL chicanerythe use of trickery to achieve one's purposeGRE · SAT chimeraA fanciful illusion or fabrication of the mind; an unrealizable dream.GRE chimericalhighly unrealistic; wildly fantastical; changeableSAT chlorophyllThe green pigment in plants that absorbs light for photosynthesisTOEFL cholericeasily angered; bad-temperedSAT chorda straight line segment connecting two points on a circleSAT chromosomeA thread-like structure carrying genetic information in cellsTOEFL chronicPersisting for a long time or constantly recurring; of a problem, long-standing.IELTS chronic diseaseA condition that persists over a long period of time.IELTS chroniclera person who writes accounts of historical eventsSAT chronologicalArranged in order of timeTOEFL chronological orderArrangement of events in time orderTOEFL churlishRude, mean-spirited, or lacking in civility.GRE circuitouslonger than the most direct way; indirect and complicatedGRE · SAT circular argumentAn argument where the conclusion is used as a premiseTOEFL circulateTo move continuously through a system; to pass from place to place.IELTS circulationThe continuous movement of blood through the bodyTOEFL circumferenceThe distance around the outside of a circle, calculated as C = 2*pi*r, where r i…GRE · SAT circumlocutionThe use of many words where fewer would do, especially to avoid speaking directl…GRE · SAT circumscribeto draw a line or curve around; to draw a polygon around anotherGRE · SAT circumspectWary and unwilling to take risks; carefully considering all circumstances.GRE · SAT circumstanceA fact or condition connected with or relevant to an event or action.TOEFL · IELTS circumventTo find a way around an obstacle or rule; to overcome by ingenuity.GRE citationA reference to a source of informationTOEFL citation styleA set of rules for documenting sourcesTOEFL citeTo quote or refer to as evidence or justification.TOEFL · IELTS citizenshipThe position or status of being a citizen of a particular country; civic engagem…IELTS civicOf or relating to a city or town, especially its administration; relating to cit…IELTS civil rightsThe rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality.IELTS civilisationThe stage of human social and cultural development and organisation.IELTS claimTo state or assert something as fact, especially without proof.TOEFL · IELTS clairvoyanceThe supposed ability to perceive events beyond normal sensory contact; exception…GRE clamorA loud and confused noise, especially of people shouting; a vehement public dema…GRE clarificationThe action of making a statement or situation less confused and more comprehensi…IELTS clarifyTo make a statement or situation less confused and more comprehensible.TOEFL · IELTS clarityThe quality of being clear and easy to understandTOEFL classificationThe arrangement of things into categoriesTOEFL classifyTo arrange a group of people or things in classes or categories according to sha…TOEFL · IELTS clean technologyTechnology that reduces negative environmental impacts through energy efficiency…IELTS clemencyMercy or leniency, especially toward an offender or enemy.GRE clienteleThe body of customers or patrons of a business or professional service.GRE climateThe long-term pattern of weather in an areaTOEFL climate changeA long-term shift in global or regional climate patterns, largely driven by huma…IELTS cloisterTo seclude or shut away from the outside world.GRE closed intervalan interval that includes its endpointsSAT closelyIn a manner that is very near to somethingTOEFL clueA piece of evidence helping to identify somethingTOEFL coagulatechange from a liquid to a thickened or solid stateGRE coalesceTo come together to form one whole; to merge or unite.GRE · SAT coastal erosionThe loss of land due to the action of waves, tides, and other coastal processes.IELTS codathe closing section of a musical compositionGRE coefficientA numerical or constant factor placed before a variable in an algebraic expressi…GRE · SAT · IELTS coerceTo compel someone to act or think in a certain way by using force, threats, or i…GRE coexistTo exist at the same time or in the same place.IELTS cogentclear, logical, and convincingGRE · SAT cognitiveRelating to cognition or the mental processes of thinking, knowing, and perceivi…TOEFL · IELTS cognizantHaving knowledge or awareness of something.GRE cognoscenteA person who has superior knowledge or understanding in a particular field, espe…GRE coherenceThe quality of being logical and consistentTOEFL coherentLogical, consistent, and forming a unified wholeTOEFL · IELTS coherent argumentA well-organized argument that flows logicallyTOEFL coherentlyIn a logical and consistent mannerTOEFL cohesionThe action or fact of forming a united whole; logical connection between parts o…TOEFL · IELTS cohesiveForming a united whole; characterised by social solidarity and common purpose.IELTS coincideTo occur at the same time or occupy the same space; to correspond in nature.IELTS collaborateTo work jointly on an activity or projectTOEFL collaborativeInvolving two or more parties working together.IELTS collapseA sudden fall or failure of something; to fall down suddenly.TOEFL · IELTS collectTo gather things together from different sourcesTOEFL collectiveDone by or belonging to all the members of a group; joint.TOEFL · IELTS collinearLying on the same straight line, used to describe points that share a single lin…GRE · SAT colloquialUsed in ordinary or familiar conversation, not formalTOEFL colonialismThe practice of acquiring political control over another country and exploiting …IELTS colonisationThe action of settling among and establishing control over indigenous people of …IELTS coloniseTo establish a colony in a place; to take control of or dominate.IELTS columna vertical arrangement of elements in a matrix or tableSAT · TOEFL combinationa selection of items where order doesn't matterSAT combinatoricsThe branch of mathematics dealing with combinations, permutations, and the count…GRE combined variationwhen one variable depends on multiple other variables in different waysSAT combustionThe process of burning a substanceTOEFL cometA celestial object moving around the sun with a tail of gas and dust.IELTS commensuratecorresponding in size, degree, or extent; proportionateSAT commentA verbal or written remark expressing an opinionTOEFL commiserateTo express or feel sympathy or pity for someone's misfortune.GRE · SAT commissionAn instruction or order given to produce somethingTOEFL commitmentThe state of being dedicated to a cause, activity, or task.IELTS commodiousspacious and comfortable; roomySAT commodityA raw material or primary agricultural product that can be bought and sold.IELTS common denominatora denominator that is common to two or more fractionsSAT common differencethe constant difference between consecutive terms in an arithmetic sequenceSAT common factora number that divides evenly into two or more numbersSAT common logarithma logarithm with base 10; log base 10SAT common ratiothe constant ratio between consecutive terms in a geometric sequenceSAT commonlyFrequently; in the most usual wayTOEFL communicateTo share or exchange information, news, or ideas.IELTS communityA group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic…IELTS commutative propertya property stating that the order of operands doesn't affect the result (a + b =…SAT comparativeRelating to or based on comparison; measured or estimated by comparison.IELTS compareTo examine two or more quantities or expressions to determine their relative siz…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS compare and contrastTo examine similarities and differences between thingsTOEFL compellingEvoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.IELTS compendiumA concise but comprehensive collection of information on a particular subject.GRE compensateTo give something in recognition of loss or sufferingTOEFL competeTo strive to gain or win something by defeating rivals; to take part in a contes…IELTS competenceThe ability to do something successfully or efficiently.TOEFL · IELTS competitionThe activity of striving to gain an advantage over rivals.TOEFL · IELTS competitiveRelating to or characterised by competition; as good as or better than others.IELTS compileTo produce by assembling information from sourcesTOEFL complacentShowing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements, ofte…GRE complaisantWilling to please others; obliging and agreeable.GRE complementA thing that contributes features which improve or emphasise another's qualities…GRE · SAT · IELTS complementary anglestwo angles whose measures sum to 90 degreesSAT complexConsisting of many different and connected parts; not straightforward.TOEFL · IELTS complex numbera number of the form a + bi where i is the imaginary unitSAT complex sentenceA sentence containing a main clause and a subordinate clauseTOEFL complex vocabularySophisticated words requiring academic context to understandTOEFL complexityThe state of having many parts and being difficult to understand or find answers…TOEFL · IELTS compliantDisposed to agree with others or obey rules, often to an excessive degree.GRE componenta part or element; in vectors, the projection along an axisSAT · TOEFL composite numbera number that has more than two factorsSAT compositionThe nature of something's ingredients or constituents; the way it is made up.TOEFL · IELTS compoundA thing that is composed of two or more separate elements; to make worse.TOEFL · IELTS compound inequalityan inequality involving two or more conditions connected by 'and' or 'or'SAT comprehendTo understand something fullyTOEFL comprehensionThe ability to understand somethingTOEFL comprehensiveIncluding or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.TOEFL · IELTS compulsoryRequired by law or a rule; obligatory.IELTS compunctionA feeling of guilt or moral scruple that prevents or follows the doing of someth…GRE concaveCurving inward, like the interior surface of a sphere; in geometry, a polygon is…GRE · SAT concedeTo admit that something is true or valid after initially denying or resisting it…TOEFL · IELTS concentrateTo direct one's attention or effort; to increase the strength or density of some…TOEFL · IELTS concentricSharing the same center point, as with circles or spheres of different radii tha…GRE · SAT conceptAn abstract idea or general notion representing something.TOEFL · IELTS concernA matter of interest or importance; to make someone anxious or worried.TOEFL · IELTS concessionSomething yielded or granted, especially in an argument or negotiation; an ackno…GRE conciliatorymaking or willing to make concessionsGRE conciseGiving a lot of information clearly and in few words; brief but comprehensive.TOEFL · IELTS concludeTo arrive at a judgement or opinion by reasoning.TOEFL · IELTS conclusionthe result or outcome reached by logical deductionSAT · TOEFL concomitantoccurring or existing together; accompanyingSAT concorda harmonious state of things and of their propertiesGRE concreteExisting in a material or physical form; specific and definite.IELTS concrete exampleA specific real-world illustration of an abstract conceptTOEFL concurrentmeeting at a common point; happening at the same timeSAT condensationThe conversion of vapor into liquidTOEFL condensedMade more compact; reduced in volumeTOEFL condescendingshowing an attitude of superiority; patronizingSAT conditionalDependent on or influenced by certain conditionsTOEFL conditional probabilitythe probability of an event given that another event has occurredSAT condoneexcuse, overlook, or make allowances forGRE conductorA material allowing the flow of heat or electricityTOEFL conea three-dimensional shape with a circular base and a point at the topSAT conferTo grant a title or benefit on someone; to have a discussion.IELTS confidentFeeling or showing certainty about something; self-assured.IELTS confirmTo establish the truth or correctness of something previously believed or suspec…TOEFL · IELTS conflictA serious disagreement or argument; a prolonged armed struggle.TOEFL · IELTS conformTo behave in accordance with social standards or rulesTOEFL confoundbe confusing or perplexing toGRE confoundedConfused and surprised; also used to describe variables in a study that are mixe…GRE confuteto prove wrong by argument; to refute conclusivelySAT congenialPleasant and agreeable because suited to one's taste or nature.GRE · SAT congestionThe condition of a road or area being overcrowded with traffic.IELTS congratulateTo express pleasure to someone over their success or good fortune.IELTS congruencethe quality of being congruent; having the same shape and sizeSAT congruentIn geometry, having the same shape and size so that all corresponding sides and …GRE · SAT conic sectionthe intersection of a plane and a cone, producing circles, ellipses, parabolas, …SAT conjectureAn opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information; in math,…GRE · SAT conjugalRelating to marriage or the relationship between a married couple.GRE conjugatea pair of complex numbers differing only in the sign of the imaginary partSAT conjunctionthe logical 'and' operator; the intersection of two setsSAT connectionA relationship in which a person or thing is linked or associated with something…TOEFL · IELTS connectiveA word or phrase joining parts of a sentence or argumentTOEFL connoisseuran expert able to appreciate a fieldGRE connoteto imply or suggest in addition to the literal meaningSAT conscientiousWishing to do what is right, especially to do one's work or duty thoroughly and …GRE consciousAware of and responding to one's surroundings; aware of something.IELTS consecratedMade or declared sacred; dedicated formally to a religious or divine purpose.GRE consecutiveFollowing continuously in unbroken sequence; in math, consecutive integers diffe…GRE · SAT consentagreement or permission; in probability, mutual agreementSAT consequencea result or effect following from an action or conditionSAT · TOEFL · IELTS consequentthe result in a conditional statement; the 'then' partSAT · IELTS conservationThe protection of the natural environment, animals, or cultural heritage.TOEFL · IELTS conservation areaAn area designated for the protection of the natural or built environment.IELTS conservativeReluctant to accept change; holding traditional values.IELTS considerableNotably large or importantTOEFL considerateCareful not to cause inconvenience or hurt to others.IELTS consistentActing or done in the same way over time; compatible or in agreement with.TOEFL · IELTS consistentlyIn the same way throughout; alwaysTOEFL constantlyContinuously over a period of time; persistently.IELTS constituteTo be a part of a whole; to formally establishTOEFL · IELTS constrainTo restrict or limit somethingTOEFL constraintA limitation or restriction on somethingTOEFL constructTo build or create somethingTOEFL constructiveServing a useful purpose; tending to build up rather than destroy.IELTS constructive feedbackFeedback aimed at improving rather than criticizingTOEFL consumeTo eat, drink, or use up a resource; to buy or use goods and services.IELTS consumerismThe preoccupation of society with the acquisition of consumer goods.IELTS consumeristRelating to the preoccupation with and inclination toward the buying of consumer…IELTS contaminateTo make impure by exposure to or addition of a poisonous or polluting substance.IELTS contemporaryLiving or occurring at the same time; relating to the present.TOEFL · IELTS contendTo assert something as a position in an argument; also, to struggle or compete.GRE · IELTS contentThe information or topics in a piece of writingTOEFL contentionheated disagreement; a point asserted as true in an argumentGRE · SAT contentiousshowing an inclination to disagreeGRE · TOEFL contextThe circumstances that form the setting for an event or statement.TOEFL · IELTS context-dependentMeaning that varies according to surrounding circumstancesTOEFL contextualiseTo place or study in a particular context; to make clear the circumstances surro…IELTS contiguousSharing a common border; touching or adjacent without interruption.GRE · SAT continentOne of the large landmasses of EarthTOEFL continentalRelating to a continent; of the mainland of Europe or a mainland region.IELTS continueTo persist without change; to resumeTOEFL continuousForming an unbroken whole; without interruptionTOEFL contractionA shortening or reduction in sizeTOEFL contrastThe state of being strikingly different from something else in comparison.TOEFL · IELTS contrasting viewA perspective that differs from the one being arguedTOEFL contributeTo give something in order to help achieve a resultTOEFL · IELTS contritefeeling or expressing pain or sorrowGRE controversialGiving rise to disagreement or public debateTOEFL controversyProlonged public disagreement or heated discussion.TOEFL · IELTS contumaciousstubbornly disobedient; rebelliousSAT conundrumA confusing and difficult problem or question with no easy solution.GRE convectionHeat transfer through a fluid caused by movement of the fluid itselfTOEFL convenienceThe state of being able to do something with little effort; something that facil…IELTS convenientFitting in well with a person's needs, activities, and plans; easy and quick to …IELTS conventionA widely accepted practice, standard, or norm within a particular group or field…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS conventionalBased on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed; conforming to…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS convergemove or draw togetherGRE convergenceThe process of converging; the tendency toward meeting at a common point.IELTS convergenttending to converge; approaching a limitSAT conversionThe process of changing something from one form to anotherTOEFL convertTo change a quantity from one unit, form, or system of measurement to another eq…GRE · TOEFL convexCurving outward like the exterior of a sphere; in geometry, a polygon is convex …GRE · SAT conveyTo communicate or express somethingTOEFL convictionan unshakable belief in something without need for proofGRE · TOEFL convincingCapable of persuading through logical argument and evidenceTOEFL convolutedhighly complex or intricateGRE convolutiona twisting or coiling together; a mathematical operation combining functionsSAT cooperateTo work jointly towards the same end.TOEFL · IELTS cooperativeInvolving mutual assistance in working toward a common goalTOEFL coordinateAn ordered set of numbers that specifies the position of a point in a given refe…GRE · SAT copeTo deal effectively with something difficult.TOEFL · IELTS copiousabundant; existing or available in large quantitiesGRE · SAT coplanarLying in the same geometric plane; used to describe points, lines, or figures th…GRE copyrightThe exclusive legal right of creators to reproduce, publish, or distribute their…IELTS coral reefA ridge of rock in the sea formed by the growth and compaction of coral.IELTS coreThe central part of the Earth; the center of somethingTOEFL corollaryA proposition that follows naturally from one already proven, requiring little o…GRE correlateTo have a mutual relationship; to establish such a relationshipTOEFL correlationA mutual relationship or connection between two or more things.SAT · IELTS correspondTo have a close similarity or equivalenceTOEFL correspondingIn geometry, occupying the same relative position in similar or congruent figure…GRE · SAT corroborateTo confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding with additional ev…GRE · SAT corrosionThe gradual destruction of a material by chemical reactionTOEFL corruptdishonest or immoral; to make dishonestSAT corruptionDishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power; bribery.IELTS cosineA trigonometric function of an angle equal to the ratio of the length of the adj…GRE counter-evidenceEvidence that contradicts a stated claimTOEFL counterargumentAn argument or set of reasons put forward to oppose an idea or theory.TOEFL · IELTS counterbalanceA weight or force that balances another; to have an equal and opposing effect.IELTS counterfeitmade in imitation of something genuine with intent to deceive; fakeSAT counterpartA person or thing that fulfils the same function in a different context.TOEFL · IELTS covariancea measure of how two variables change togetherSAT covenanta formal agreement or contract; a binding promiseSAT covertnot openly acknowledged or displayed; secret or hiddenSAT covetTo yearn to possess or have something that belongs to another, especially enviou…GRE cowerto crouch down in fear; to shrink away from something threateningSAT cravenlacking even the rudiments of courageGRE createTo bring something into existenceTOEFL creativityThe use of imagination or original ideas to produce something; inventiveness.IELTS credenceBelief in or acceptance of something as true, especially without conclusive proo…GRE credibilityThe quality of being trusted and believedTOEFL credibleable to be believed; convincingSAT credible sourceA reliable and authoritative referenceTOEFL creditabledeserving public acknowledgment and praise; commendableSAT credoA statement of the beliefs or aims that guide someone's actions; a creed.GRE credulousHaving too great a readiness to believe things; gullible.GRE · SAT crepuscularrelating to or resembling twilight; active at dawn or duskSAT crescendoA gradual increase in intensity, volume, or force, reaching a peak.GRE crime rateThe amount of crime occurring in a given area per unit of population.IELTS cringeto recoil in fear or revulsion; to fawn in an embarrassing waySAT criteriaPrinciples or standards by which something may be judged or decided.TOEFL · IELTS criticalHaving decisive or crucial importance in the success or failure of something; ex…TOEFL · IELTS critical thinkingThe objective analysis of facts to form a judgmentTOEFL criticizeTo point out faults or problems in somethingTOEFL critiqueA detailed analysis and assessment of something.TOEFL · IELTS cropA cultivated plant or the yield from it; to cut something short.IELTS cross-referenceA reference to another part of a document or another textTOEFL crucialDecisive or critical, especially in the success or failure of something.TOEFL · IELTS crustThe outer layer of the EarthTOEFL cryptichaving a meaning that is mysterious or obscure; puzzlingSAT crystallizationThe process by which crystals form from a solution or meltTOEFL cubicrelating to a cube; having three dimensionsSAT cueA signal that prompts action or provides informationTOEFL cultivateTo prepare and use land for crops; to develop a skill or quality.IELTS cultivationThe preparation and use of land for crops; the process of nurturing growth.IELTS culturalRelating to the ideas, customs, and social behaviour of a society.IELTS cultural diversityThe quality of diverse or varied cultural or ethnic groups within a society.IELTS culture shockThe feeling of disorientation experienced when encountering an unfamiliar cultur…IELTS cumbersomeDifficult to manage or handle because of weight, size, or complexity; unwieldy.GRE cumulativeIncreasing or increased in quantity, degree, or force by successive additions.SAT · IELTS cupidityExcessive greed, especially for money or possessions.GRE curiousEager to know or learn something; strange or unusual.IELTS currencyA system of money in general use in a country; the quality of being current.TOEFL · IELTS currentBelonging to the present time; a body of water or air moving in a definite direc…TOEFL · IELTS currentlyAt the present time; now.IELTS curriculumThe subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.TOEFL · IELTS cursoryHasty and therefore not thorough or detailed; superficial.GRE curtailto reduce in extent or quantity; to restrictSAT cybersecurityThe practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks.IELTS cycleA series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.TOEFL · IELTS cylinderA three-dimensional solid with two parallel, congruent circular bases connected …GRE cynicaldistrustful of human sincerity or goodness; mockingSAT cytoplasmThe fluid that fills a cell outside the nucleusTOEFL

D

dataFacts and statistics collected together for analysis; information used to make d…TOEFL · IELTS data-drivenBased on the analysis of factual informationTOEFL deal withTo take action in order to solve a problem or handle a difficult situation.IELTS dearthA scarcity or lack of something.GRE debacleA sudden and complete disaster or humiliating failure.GRE debatableOpen to argument or disputeTOEFL debateA formal discussion on a topic; an argument about a contested subject.TOEFL · IELTS debilityphysical weakness or incapacity caused by illness or ageSAT debunkingexposing the falseness or hollowness of a myth or claimSAT decadeA period of ten years.IELTS decagonA polygon with ten sides and ten angles; a regular decagon has all sides and ang…GRE decathlonan athletic competition in which competitors take part in ten eventsSAT decayThe state or process of rotting or decomposition; gradual deterioration.IELTS decentralisationThe transfer of control from central to regional or local authority.IELTS decimalA number expressed in the base-10 system using a decimal point to represent frac…GRE decisiveSettling an issue; able to make decisions quickly and firmly.IELTS declarativeMaking a statement or assertionTOEFL declineA gradual and continuous decrease in strength, numbers, or quality.TOEFL · IELTS decomposeTo rot or break down into simpler substancesTOEFL decompositionThe process of decaying or breaking downTOEFL decorumbehavior that is in accordance with accepted standards; proprietyGRE · SAT decoya lure or trap; something used to lead into a trapSAT decreaseA reduction in size, quantity, or degree; the result of subtracting a larger val…GRE dedicateTo devote time, effort, or oneself to a particular task or purpose.IELTS dedicatedDevoted to a task or purpose; hardworking and committed.IELTS dedicationThe quality of being committed to a task or purpose.IELTS deduceTo arrive at a conclusion by reasoning from evidenceTOEFL · IELTS deductiveMoving from general principles to specific conclusionsTOEFL defendTo argue in favor of a positionTOEFL deferencehumble submission and respect shown toward an authority or elderGRE · SAT deficitThe amount by which something falls short; a lack or shortage.IELTS defineTo state or describe exactly the nature, scope, or meaning of something.TOEFL · IELTS definitelyWithout doubt; clearly.IELTS definitionA statement of the exact meaning of a word or termTOEFL defoliateto strip of leaves; to destroy vegetation with chemicalsSAT deforestationThe clearing or thinning of forests by humans.TOEFL · IELTS deforestation rateThe speed at which forest land is being cleared.IELTS defunctno longer existing or functioning; deadSAT degradationthe condition of being reduced in quality or worth; humiliationSAT degradeTo treat or regard someone with contempt or disrespect; to break down.IELTS deignTo condescend reluctantly and with a strong sense of the favor being conferred.GRE deleteriousCausing harm or damage, especially in a subtle or unexpected way.GRE · SAT deliberateto think carefully about something; done consciously and intentionallySAT · TOEFL delineatedescribed or portrayed precisely and in detailGRE · TOEFL delineatedDescribed or portrayed precisely; having boundaries or features clearly defined.GRE delineationthe action of describing or portraying something preciselySAT deliveryThe manner in which speech is presentedTOEFL deltaA triangular or fan-shaped area of sediment deposited at the mouth of a river.IELTS delugea great flood of water; an overwhelming rush or abundanceGRE · SAT demagogueA political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular prejudices rather t…GRE demandAn insistent and peremptory request; the desire for something.IELTS demandingRequiring much skill or effort; making strong demands.IELTS democracyA system of government in which power is vested in the people through elected re…IELTS demographicRelating to the structure of populations; statistical data relating to human pop…IELTS demonstrateTo clearly show the existence or truth of something by evidence or argument.TOEFL · IELTS demurto raise objections; to show reluctance or hesitationGRE · SAT denigratecharge falsely or with malicious intentGRE denizenAn inhabitant or occupant of a particular place.GRE denominatorThe number below the line in a fraction, indicating how many equal parts the who…GRE denouementThe final resolution or outcome of a complex sequence of events, especially in a…GRE denounceto publicly declare to be wrong, evil, or reprehensibleSAT denseClosely compacted in substance; containing a great deal of material.TOEFL · IELTS densityThe degree of compactness of a substance; mass per unit volumeTOEFL depend onTo rely on something for supportTOEFL dependableTrustworthy and reliable.IELTS dependency ratioThe proportion of a population that is dependent on the working population for s…IELTS dependentRelying on someone or something for support; conditional on something else.IELTS depictTo represent by a drawing, painting, or descriptionTOEFL depictionThe representation of something in a written or visual formTOEFL depleteTo use up or exhaust the supply or resources of something.GRE · SAT depletionThe reduction of something to a very small amount; using up of a resource.IELTS deploreto feel or express strong condemnation of; to regret deeplySAT depositA layer of accumulated material; to place something somewhere for safekeeping.IELTS depravitymoral corruption or wickedness; extreme immoralityGRE · SAT deprecateto express disapproval of something; to belittle or disparageGRE · SAT deprecationThe act of expressing disapproval or belittlement.GRE depreciateTo diminish in value over time, or to disparage or belittle.GRE depressionA period of economic decline; a mental health conditionTOEFL deprivationThe lack of material benefits considered to be basic necessities.IELTS derideto express contempt for someone or something; to mock or ridiculeGRE · SAT derivativea compound obtained from another compoundGRE deriveTo obtain something from a source; to trace back to an originTOEFL · IELTS derogatoryshowing a critical or disrespectful attitude; demeaningSAT describeTo give an account of the qualities or characteristics of somethingTOEFL descriptionA spoken or written account of a person, object, or event.TOEFL · IELTS desecrateto treat a sacred place or thing with violent disrespectSAT desecrationthe act of treating a sacred thing with violent disrespectSAT desertificationThe process by which fertile land becomes desert through drought, deforestation,…IELTS desiccatelacking vitality or spirit; lifelessGRE designateTo officially assign a role or name to somethingTOEFL desireA strong feeling of wanting to have or achieve something.IELTS desistto stop doing something; to ceaseSAT despiteIn spite of; without being affected byTOEFL despondentin low spirits from loss of hope or courage; deeply dejectedSAT destituteLacking the basic necessities of life; extremely poor.GRE destitutionthe state of being extremely poor; severe deprivationSAT desultoryLacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm; occurring randomly or sporadically.GRE detachedbeing or feeling set or kept apart from othersGRE detailA small item of information or a small featureTOEFL detectTo discover or identify the presence or existence of something.TOEFL · IELTS deterto discourage someone from doing something; to preventSAT deteriorateto become progressively worse; to decline in qualitySAT · IELTS determinantA scalar value computed from the elements of a square matrix that encodes certai…GRE determineTo cause or be the decisive factor in; to find outTOEFL determinedHaving made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it.IELTS deterrentsomething immaterial that interferes with actionGRE detrimentaltending to cause harm; damagingSAT developTo grow or cause to grow more advancedTOEFL develop an argumentTo build a case step by step using evidenceTOEFL developmentThe process of growing or being developed; a new product or event.IELTS deviceA technique used to achieve a particular purposeTOEFL devoteTo give time, effort, or oneself to a particular task or purpose.IELTS devouredeaten greedily; consumed eagerly and completelySAT dexterousshowing or having skill, especially with the hands; nimbleSAT diagnoseTo identify the nature or cause of a problem or illness.IELTS diagonalA line segment connecting two non-adjacent vertices of a polygon, or extending f…GRE diagramA simplified drawing showing how something worksTOEFL diameterA straight line passing through the center of a circle or sphere, connecting two…GRE diatribethunderous verbal attackGRE dichotomya division or contrast between two things that are opposedGRE · SAT dictionThe choice of words used in speech or writingTOEFL didacticintended to teach, particularly in a pedantic or moralistic wayGRE · SAT dietThe kinds of food that a person habitually eats; a special course of food for he…IELTS differenceThe result obtained by subtracting one number from another.GRE · TOEFL differentiateTo recognise or ascertain what makes someone or something different; to make dis…TOEFL · IELTS diffidencelack of self-confidenceGRE diffidentmodest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence; reservedSAT diffusemove outwardGRE diffusionThe spread of molecules from higher to lower concentrationTOEFL digestionThe process by which food is broken down in the bodyTOEFL digitAny of the numerals from 0 to 9, especially when forming part of a larger number…GRE digital divideThe gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do n…IELTS digital economyAn economy that is based on digital computing technologies.IELTS digressto leave the main subject temporarily in speech or writingSAT digressionA temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing.GRE dikea long wall built to prevent flooding; an embankmentSAT dilatoryslow to act; intended to cause delaySAT dilemmaA situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two courses of ac…SAT · TOEFL · IELTS dilettantea person who dabbles in an area of knowledge without serious studySAT diligenthaving or showing care and effort in one's work; hardworkingSAT dimensionAn aspect or feature of a situation; a measurable extent of some kind.TOEFL · IELTS diminishTo make or become lessTOEFL diminutiveExtremely or unusually small.GRE dioramaa model representing a scene with three-dimensional figuresSAT diplomacyThe profession or skill of managing international relations; tact and skill in m…IELTS directGoing straight to the point; to manageTOEFL direct quotationAn exact reproduction of a source's wordsTOEFL directionThe orientation or path along which something moves or faces, often expressed as…GRE dirgea song or hymn of mourning as a memorial to a dead personGRE · SAT disabilityA physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or acti…IELTS disabusefree somebody from an erroneous beliefGRE disaffectedDissatisfied with those in authority and no longer willing to support them.GRE disagreeTo have or express a different opinion; to fail to agree.IELTS disapprobationstrong disapproval, typically on moral groundsSAT discernto perceive or recognize something; to distinguish clearlySAT · TOEFL discerninghaving or revealing keen insight and good judgmentGRE disciplineThe practice of training people to obey rules and follow a code of behaviour; a …TOEFL · IELTS discomfortSlight pain or physical inconvenience; mild unease or embarrassment.IELTS discorddisagreement between people; lack of harmony in soundSAT discordantnot in agreement or harmonyGRE discourageTo cause someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm; to make something less likely…IELTS discourseWritten or spoken communication or debate; a formal discussion of a topic.TOEFL · IELTS discourse communityA group sharing common language normsTOEFL discourse markerA word or phrase organizing the flow of spoken or written textTOEFL discreditcause to be distrusted or disbelievedGRE discrepancyA lack of compatibility or similarity between two or more facts or claims.GRE · IELTS discreteconstituting a separate entity or partGRE discretionThe quality of behaving or speaking in a way that avoids causing offense or reve…GRE discriminateTo distinguish between; to treat unfairly based on group membershipTOEFL discriminationThe unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people.IELTS discussTo talk or write about a topic in detail, taking into account different ideas an…TOEFL · IELTS disdainlack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislikeGRE disengageTo release from connection; to stop participatingTOEFL disingenuousNot candid or sincere, typically by pretending to know less or be less involved …GRE dismissTo reject as unworthy of consideration; to treat as insignificant.GRE disparageTo regard or represent as being of little worth; to belittle.GRE disparateEssentially different in kind; not allowing comparison.GRE disparityA great difference between things; a lack of equality.TOEFL · IELTS displaceTo take the place of something; to force someone to leave their home.TOEFL · IELTS displacementThe forced movement of people from their homes or usual surroundings.TOEFL · IELTS disproportionateToo large or too small in comparison with something else.IELTS disputeA disagreement or argument; to question the truth or validity of something.IELTS disruptTo interrupt the normal course of; to radically change the way something works.TOEFL · IELTS dissembleTo conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs behind a false appearance.GRE disseminatecause to become widely knownGRE dissidentA person who opposes official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state.GRE dissolutionseparation into component partsGRE dissonancedisagreeable soundsGRE distanceThe length of the shortest path between two points, often calculated using the d…GRE distance learningA method of studying in which students work at home and communicate with teacher…IELTS distendcause to expand as if by internal pressureGRE distillundergo condensationGRE distillationA process of purifying a liquid by evaporation and condensationTOEFL distinctRecognizably different in nature; clearly separateTOEFL distinctionA difference or contrast between similar things; recognition of excellence.TOEFL · IELTS distinguishTo recognize or point out a difference; to make different.TOEFL · IELTS distractionA thing that prevents someone from giving full attention to something else.IELTS distributeTo give shares of something to a number of recipientsTOEFL divergemove or draw apartGRE divergenceThe process or state of moving apart or becoming different; in mathematics, a me…GRE diverseShowing a great deal of variety; very different.TOEFL · IELTS diversifyTo make more varied or spread across more categoriesTOEFL diversityThe state of being diverse; a range of different things or people.IELTS dividendThe number being divided in a division operation.GRE divisionThe mathematical operation of dividing one number by another to find how many ti…GRE divulgeTo make known private or sensitive information.GRE DNADeoxyribonucleic acid; the molecule carrying genetic informationTOEFL docileeasily handled or managedGRE documenta representation of a person's thinking with contentGRE · TOEFL documentationWritten evidence or recordsTOEFL doggerelVerse or poetry that is badly written or trivial in nature.GRE dogmaticpertaining to a code of beliefs accepted as authoritativeGRE domainAn area of knowledge or activityTOEFL domesticateTo tame an animal or cultivate a plant for human use.IELTS domesticationThe action of taming an animal and keeping it as a pet or on a farm; adapting to…IELTS dominantHaving power and influence over others; most important or influential.TOEFL · IELTS dominant geneA gene whose trait is expressed even with one copyTOEFL dominateTo have power or control over others; to be most importantTOEFL dormantIn a state of rest with reduced activityTOEFL downsideThe negative aspect of something otherwise considered good or desirable.IELTS draconianExcessively harsh and severe, especially of laws or punishments.GRE draftA preliminary version of a piece of writingTOEFL dramaticSudden and striking; relating to drama or the theatre.IELTS drawTo produce a conclusion from informationTOEFL drawbackA feature that renders something less acceptable; a disadvantage or problem.IELTS droneA remotely piloted aircraft; an unmanned aerial vehicle.IELTS dropoutA person who leaves school, college, or a training programme before completion.IELTS droughtA prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water.TOEFL · IELTS drought-resistantAble to survive and grow with very little water.IELTS dupea person who is tricked or swindledGRE durableAble to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; long-lasting.TOEFL · IELTS durationThe time during which something continuesTOEFL dynamicCharacterised by constant change, activity, or progress.IELTS dynamicsThe forces operating in a systemTOEFL

E

ebullientjoyously unrestrainedGRE echelonA level or rank in an organization, profession, or society.GRE eclecticselecting what seems best of various styles or ideasGRE eco-tourismTourism directed toward natural environments to conserve the environment and sup…IELTS ecologyThe branch of biology dealing with the relations of organisms to one another and…IELTS economicRelating to economics or the economy; justified in terms of profitability.TOEFL · IELTS economic growthAn increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the populat…IELTS economyThe state of a country or region in terms of the production and consumption of g…IELTS ecosystemA biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.TOEFL · IELTS ecumenicalRepresenting or promoting unity among the world's Christian churches, or more br…GRE edifyingProviding moral or intellectual instruction; enlightening.GRE effacingMaking oneself appear insignificant or inconspicuous; self-effacing.GRE effectA change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause.IELTS effectiveSuccessful in producing a desired or intended result.TOEFL · IELTS effective communicationConveying information clearly and accuratelyTOEFL effectivelyIn a way that produces a desired result; successfully.TOEFL · IELTS effectivenessThe degree to which something produces a desired resultTOEFL effervescentVivacious and enthusiastic; also, giving off bubbles.GRE effeteAffected, overrefined, and ineffectual; no longer capable of effective action.GRE efficaciousSuccessful in producing a desired or intended result; effective.GRE efficacyThe ability to produce a desired or intended result.GRE efficientAchieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.TOEFL · IELTS effortA vigorous or determined attemptTOEFL effronteryaudacious, even combative, behaviorGRE egoismAn ethical theory that treats self-interest as the foundation of morality, or ex…GRE egotisticalExcessively conceited or absorbed in oneself.GRE egregiousOutstandingly bad; shockingly flagrant.GRE eigenvalueA scalar associated with a linear transformation of a vector space, representing…GRE elaborateInvolving many carefully arranged parts; to explain in more detailTOEFL · IELTS elaborationThe process of adding more detail to a plan or ideaTOEFL elderlyOld; in later life; relating to people who are old.IELTS electric chargeA property of matter causing it to experience electromagnetic forceTOEFL electrodeA conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an electrolyteTOEFL electrolysisChemical decomposition using an electric currentTOEFL electromagneticRelating to the interrelated phenomena of electricity and magnetismTOEFL electronA negatively charged subatomic particleTOEFL elegya mournful poem, especially one lamenting the deadGRE elementA component or constituent of a whole; a basic matter of a subject.TOEFL · IELTS elevationThe action of raising something or being raised; height above sea level.IELTS eliminateTo completely remove or get rid of somethingTOEFL · IELTS ellipseA closed plane curve that is the set of all points such that the sum of the dist…GRE eloquentexpressing yourself readily, clearly, effectivelyGRE elucidateTo make something clear; to explain or clarify.GRE eludeTo evade or escape from, typically in a skillful or cunning way; to fail to be u…GRE elusiveskillfully evasiveGRE elysianRelating to or characteristic of heaven or paradise; blissful.GRE emaciatedvery thin especially from disease or hunger or coldGRE embedTo incorporate something into a larger structureTOEFL embellishmake more attractive, as by adding ornament or colorGRE embodyTo represent or express something concretelyTOEFL embryoAn organism in early stages of developmentTOEFL emergeTo come out from a concealed or difficult position; to become apparent.TOEFL · IELTS emissionThe production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation.TOEFL · IELTS emission tradingA market-based approach to controlling pollution by providing economic incentive…IELTS emphasisSpecial importance, value, or prominence given to something.TOEFL · IELTS emphasis markerA word or phrase that stresses importanceTOEFL emphasiseTo give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.IELTS emphasizeTo give special importance to something in speakingTOEFL empiricalBased on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS empiricallyBased on observation and experiment rather than theoryTOEFL empiricismThe philosophical theory that all knowledge is derived from sensory experience.GRE empowermentThe process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling o…IELTS emulatestrive to equal or match, especially by imitatingGRE enableTo give someone the authority or means to do something; to make possible.TOEFL · IELTS encomiumA speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly.GRE encounterTo unexpectedly experience or be faced with something; a meeting with someone.TOEFL · IELTS encourageTo give support, confidence, or hope to someone.IELTS encryptionThe process of converting information into a code to prevent unauthorised access…IELTS encumberTo impede or burden; to restrict or weigh down.GRE endangerTo put at risk or in danger.IELTS endangeredSeriously at risk of extinction.IELTS endemicnative to or confined to a certain regionGRE endureTo remain in existence; to suffer patiently.TOEFL · IELTS energyThe strength and vitality required for sustained physical or mental activity.IELTS energy efficiencyThe goal of reducing the amount of energy required to provide products and servi…IELTS energy povertyThe lack of access to modern energy services for a significant proportion of a p…IELTS energy transferThe movement of energy from one system to anotherTOEFL enervateweaken mentally or morallyGRE enforceTo compel observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation.TOEFL · IELTS enfranchiseto grant the right to vote or full citizenship rights to a groupSAT engageTo occupy, attract, or involve someone's interest or attention.TOEFL · IELTS engenderto cause or give rise to a feeling, situation, or conditionGRE · SAT enhanceTo intensify, increase, or further improve the quality, value, or extent of some…GRE · SAT · TOEFL · IELTS enigmaa person or thing that is mysterious and difficult to understandSAT ennuithe feeling of being bored by something tediousGRE enormousVery large in size, quantity, or extent.TOEFL · IELTS enrichTo improve or enhance the quality or value of something.TOEFL · IELTS enrollmentThe action of officially registering as a member of an institution.IELTS ensconceto establish or settle securely in a comfortable positionSAT enshroudto envelop or cover completely; to shroud in mysterySAT ensureTo make certain that something will occur or be the case.TOEFL · IELTS enthusiasmIntense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval.IELTS entreatTo ask someone earnestly or anxiously to do something.GRE enunciateTo pronounce words clearly, or to express an idea or theory precisely.GRE enunciationthe action of pronouncing words clearly; a formal statementSAT envenomto cause bitterness and bad feeling; to poisonSAT environmentThe surroundings in which a person, animal, or plant lives; the natural world.TOEFL · IELTS environmentalRelating to the natural world and the impact of human activity on its condition.IELTS environmental regulationLaws and rules that govern the management and protection of the natural environm…IELTS enzymeA biological molecule that catalyzes chemical reactionsTOEFL ephemeralanything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a dayGRE · SAT epicuresomeone who appreciates fine food and drink; a connoisseurSAT epidemicA widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular …IELTS epistlea letter, especially a formal or literary oneSAT epistolaryrelating to or denoting the writing of lettersSAT epitomizedrepresented as a perfect example; typifiedSAT equableNot easily disturbed or angered; calm and even-tempered.GRE equalHaving the same quantity, value, or measure as another; identical in mathematica…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS equalityThe state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities.IELTS equanimitysteadiness of mind under stressGRE equationA mathematical statement asserting the equality of two expressions, connected by…GRE equilateralHaving all sides of equal length.GRE equitableFair and impartialTOEFL equivalentEqual in value, function, or meaning; having the same mathematical value express…GRE · TOEFL equivocateto use ambiguous language to conceal the truth; to hedgeGRE · SAT erosionThe gradual destruction or diminution of something; the wearing away of rock or …TOEFL · IELTS errto make a mistake; to be wrong; to go astray morallySAT erraticnot even or regular; unpredictable in behaviorSAT eruditehaving or showing profound knowledgeGRE eruptTo break out suddenly and dramatically; to become suddenly active.IELTS esotericintended for or understood by only a small number of peopleGRE · SAT espouseto adopt or support a cause, belief, or way of lifeSAT essentialAbsolutely necessary; extremely important.IELTS establishTo set up or lay the groundwork for; to show something to be true.TOEFL · IELTS estimateTo roughly calculate or judge the value, number, or extent of something.TOEFL · IELTS estuaryA coastal area where a river meets the seaTOEFL ethicalRelating to moral principlesTOEFL ethical consumptionPurchasing products and services that are produced in ways that are ethical.IELTS ethical writingWriting that respects intellectual property and represents ideas honestlyTOEFL ethosThe characteristic spirit, attitudes, and beliefs of a community, era, or moveme…GRE etymologyThe study of the origin and historical development of words.GRE · SAT euclideanRelating to the geometry of flat, two-dimensional planes and three-dimensional s…GRE eugenicsThe study or practice of attempting to improve the genetic composition of a popu…GRE eukaryoteAn organism whose cells contain a nucleusTOEFL eulogya formal expression of praise for someone who has diedGRE · SAT euphemisma mild or indirect word used in place of one that might seem harshGRE · SAT euphonythe quality of being pleasing to the ear; agreeable soundSAT evacuateto remove people from a dangerous place; to emptySAT evaluateTo form an idea of the amount, number, or value of; to assess.TOEFL · IELTS evanescenttending to vanish like vaporGRE evaporationThe process of turning from liquid to vaporTOEFL evapotranspirationWater loss from land through evaporation and plant transpirationTOEFL evidenceThe available facts or information indicating whether a belief is true or valid.TOEFL · IELTS evidence hierarchyA ranking of evidence types by reliabilityTOEFL evidence-based argumentA claim supported by factual data or researchTOEFL evidentPlain, obvious, and easily seen or understoodTOEFL evolutionThe gradual development of something into a more complex or better form.TOEFL · IELTS evolutionaryRelating to the gradual development of something; relating to Darwin's theory.IELTS evolveTo develop gradually; to change over time.TOEFL · IELTS exacerbateto make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worseGRE · SAT exactlyWithout discrepancy; used for emphasis.IELTS examinationA formal test of a person's knowledge or skills.IELTS examineTo inspect carefully and in detailTOEFL exampleA specific instance used to illustrate a general pointTOEFL exasperatedintensely irritated and frustratedSAT excavationThe action of excavating something; a site that is being or has been excavated.IELTS exceedTo be greater than or surpass something.TOEFL · IELTS exceptionablecausing disapproval or offense; objectionableSAT excerptA short extract from a film, broadcast, or piece of music or writing.IELTS exchangeAn act of giving one thing and receiving another in return; a brief conversation…IELTS excludeTo deliberately leave out or deny entry toTOEFL excoriateTo criticize someone severely; to censure harshly.GRE excretionThe process of expelling waste products from the bodyTOEFL exculpateto show someone is not guilty; to clear from blameGRE · SAT execrableextremely bad or unpleasant; detestableSAT exegesiscritical explanation or interpretation of a textSAT exemplaryserving as a desirable model; very goodSAT exemplifyto be a typical example of; to illustrateSAT exerciseActivity requiring physical effort for the purpose of health and fitness.IELTS exhaustingMaking one very tired; draining one's physical or mental resources.IELTS exhaustiveincluding or considering all elements; thoroughSAT exhibitTo display publicly; to show a qualityTOEFL exhortTo strongly encourage or urge someone to do something.GRE exigencyAn urgent need or demand; a pressing requirement.GRE exigentdemanding immediate attentionGRE existentialRelating to human existence, or to the philosophical movement of existentialism …GRE exoneratepronounce not guilty of criminal chargesGRE exoneratesabsolves someone from blame; acquitsSAT exorcismthe expulsion of a supposed evil spirit; liberation from somethingSAT exorcizeTo drive out an evil spirit or to free someone or something from a persistent ne…GRE expandTo become or make largerTOEFL expand onTo give more detail about a topicTOEFL expatriatea person who lives outside their native countrySAT expectationA belief that something will happen; a standard of behaviour considered appropri…IELTS expedientConvenient and practical, though possibly improper or immoral; serving one's imm…GRE · SAT expediteto make something happen sooner; to speed up a processSAT expeditionA journey undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose.IELTS experiencePractical contact with and observation of facts or events; an event or occurrenc…IELTS expertiseExpert skill or knowledge in a particular areaTOEFL explainTo make something clear by describing it in more detailTOEFL explanationA statement clarifying somethingTOEFL explicitStated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt.TOEFL · IELTS explicit statementA direct and clear expression of meaningTOEFL exploitTo make full use of a resource; to take advantage of someone unfairly.IELTS exploitationThe action or fact of treating someone or something unfairly for one's own benef…IELTS exploreTo examine or inquire into something fullyTOEFL exponentA quantity representing the power to which a given number or expression is to be…GRE exportTo send goods or services to another country for sale.IELTS exposeTo make visible; to subject someone to a risk or unpleasant experience.IELTS expositiona comprehensive description and explanation; a large public exhibitionSAT · TOEFL expository writingWriting that explains or describes a subject clearlyTOEFL expostulateTo express strong disagreement or disapproval; to reason earnestly with someone …GRE exposureThe state of being subjected to something; contact with and experience of someth…TOEFL · IELTS expressTo convey a thought or feeling in words or by gestures and conduct.IELTS expressionA mathematical phrase combining numbers, variables, and operation symbols that r…GRE expressiveEffectively conveying thought or feelingTOEFL expurgateTo remove matter thought to be objectionable or unsuitable from a text or accoun…GRE extemporaneousSpoken or done without preparation; impromptu.GRE extendTo develop an idea further or make it more comprehensiveTOEFL extensiveCovering a large area or range; thoroughTOEFL extensivelyIn a thorough and detailed way covering a large areaTOEFL extentThe area covered by something; the degree to which something is the case.IELTS externalComing from outsideTOEFL extinctNo longer in existenceTOEFL extinctionThe state or process of being eliminated; a species ceasing to exist.TOEFL · IELTS extirpateTo root out and destroy completely.GRE extolto praise enthusiastically and publicly; to exaltGRE · SAT extractTo remove or take out, especially by effortTOEFL extracurricularOutside the regular academic curriculum; additional activities.IELTS extraditeto hand over a person to another jurisdiction for trialSAT extraneousirrelevant or unrelated to the subject being dealt with; superfluousGRE · SAT extraordinaryVery unusual or remarkable; exceptional.IELTS extrapolateTo extend the application of a known dataset or method to an unknown situation b…GRE · SAT extrapolationan inference about the future based on known factsGRE extricateTo free someone or something from a constraint or difficult situation.GRE extrinsicnot part of the essential nature of something; externalSAT

F

faceTo confront and deal with something; to have a particular thing as a challenge.IELTS facetOne side or aspect of something, especially one of several.GRE facetiousTreating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor; flippant.GRE facilitateTo make an action or process easier; to enable.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS factA thing that is known or proven to be trueTOEFL factorA number or algebraic expression that divides another number or expression evenl…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS factorialThe product of all positive integers less than or equal to a given positive inte…GRE factorizationThe process of decomposing a number or expression into a product of simpler fact…GRE failureLack of success; a person or thing that failsTOEFL fairTreating people equally without favouritism; just and appropriate.IELTS fair tradeTrade between companies in developed countries and producers in developing count…IELTS fairlyTo a reasonable extent; somewhatTOEFL faitAn accomplished fact; something that has already occurred and is thus unlikely t…GRE fallaciousbased on a mistaken belief; containing a fallacyGRE · SAT fallacyA mistaken belief or a flawed argument based on unsound reasoning.GRE · SAT fallibleCapable of making mistakes or being erroneous.GRE falterto lose strength or momentum; to hesitate or waverSAT familiarWell known from long or close association; frequently encountered.IELTS famineExtreme scarcity of food, especially a prolonged episode of starvation.IELTS fanaticalfilled with excessive and single-minded zeal; obsessiveSAT fanaticismextreme and dangerous devotion to a belief or causeSAT fascinatingExtremely interesting or charming.IELTS fastidiousVery attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail; excessively particula…GRE · SAT fatuoussilly and pointless; complacently foolishGRE · SAT faunaThe animals of a particular region, habitat, or geological period.GRE · IELTS feasiblePossible and practical to do easily or conveniently.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS featureA distinctive characteristic or aspect of somethingTOEFL fecundproducing many offspring or much growth; fertileSAT feedbackInformation about a performance used to improve future workTOEFL feignTo pretend to be affected by something; to simulate or fabricate.GRE felicitouswell chosen or suited to the circumstances; appropriateSAT fermentationA metabolic process converting sugars to acids or alcoholTOEFL fertileCapable of producing abundant vegetation or crops; intellectually productive.IELTS fertilizationThe fusion of gametes to produce a new organismTOEFL ferventHaving or displaying a passionate intensity of feeling.GRE fervorintense and passionate feeling; ardor or zealSAT fetidSmelling extremely bad; stinking.GRE fetterTo restrain or confine; a chain or shackle placed on the feet.GRE fiatA formal authorization or decree; an arbitrary order.GRE fibonacciRelating to the Fibonacci sequence, in which each number is the sum of the two p…GRE ficklechanging frequently, especially loyalty or affection; unpredictableSAT fidelityFaithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, demonstrated by continuing loyalty a…GRE fieldworkResearch done in real-world settings outside the labTOEFL figureA number or diagram; an important personTOEFL filigreeOrnamental work of fine wire, or any delicate and intricate ornamentation.GRE filtrationThe process of removing particles from a mixture using a filterTOEFL findingsThe results of an investigationTOEFL finesseimpressive skill in handling a difficult or delicate situationSAT finiteHaving a definite limit or fixed size; not infinite.GRE · TOEFL firebrandA person who is passionate about a particular cause, often inciting change or un…GRE first draftThe initial version of a piece of writing before revisionTOEFL first-person perspectiveWriting from the author's own point of viewTOEFL fissionThe splitting of an atomic nucleus releasing energyTOEFL flexibleReady and able to change so as to adapt to different circumstances.TOEFL · IELTS flippantNot showing a serious or respectful attitude.GRE flood plainFlat land adjacent to a river liable to floodingTOEFL floraThe plants of a particular region, habitat, or geological period.GRE · IELTS flourishTo grow or develop in a healthy or vigorous way, especially as the result of a f…GRE flouttreat with contemptuous disregardGRE flowThe smooth and logical movement of ideas through a textTOEFL flow of argumentThe logical progression of reasoning through a textTOEFL fluctuateTo rise and fall irregularly in number or amount.TOEFL · IELTS fluctuationAn irregular rising and falling in number or amount; a variation.IELTS fluencyThe ability to express oneself with easeTOEFL fluentSpeaking or writing with ease and accuracyTOEFL focusThe centre of interest or activity; to pay particular attention to something.TOEFL · IELTS followTo understand; to come after somethingTOEFL fomenttry to stir upGRE food chainA series showing who eats whom in an ecosystemTOEFL food securityThe state of having reliable access to sufficient quantities of affordable, nutr…IELTS food webAn interconnected network of food chainsTOEFL footnoteAn explanatory note at the bottom of a pageTOEFL foragingSearching widely for food or provisions.IELTS forceAn influence causing an object to change motionTOEFL foreign aidEconomic, military, or other assistance given by one country to another.IELTS forensicRelating to the use of scientific methods and techniques in the investigation of…IELTS forestallkeep from happening or arising; make impossibleGRE formalRelating to official or ceremonious languageTOEFL formal writingWriting that uses a serious, impersonal toneTOEFL formalityThe use of language appropriate for serious or official contextsTOEFL formatThe way in which something is arranged or presented.TOEFL · IELTS formationThe action of forming something; a structure or arrangement of something.TOEFL · IELTS formidableInspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, or capable…GRE formulaA mathematical rule or relationship expressed in symbols, numbers, and variables…GRE formulateTo create or prepare something carefully, expressing it in precise terms.TOEFL · IELTS fortunatelyBy good luck; it is fortunate that.IELTS forumA meeting for open discussionTOEFL fossilThe remains of a prehistoric organism preserved in rock; outdated.TOEFL · IELTS fossil fuelA natural fuel such as coal, oil, or natural gas, formed over millions of years.TOEFL · IELTS fossil recordThe preserved remains of organisms from previous geological periods.IELTS foundationAn underlying basis or principle; an institution established by endowment.TOEFL · IELTS founderTo fail or collapse completely; to fill with water and sink (of a ship).GRE fourierRelating to Fourier analysis, a mathematical method that decomposes functions in…GRE fracasA noisy disturbance or quarrel.GRE fractalA geometric shape that displays self-similarity at every scale, where each part …GRE fractionA numerical quantity that is not a whole number, expressed as one integer (numer…GRE fractiousEasily irritated; unruly and difficult to control.GRE fragmentA small part broken or separated off from something; to break into pieces.IELTS frameworkA basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text.TOEFL · IELTS freedomThe power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants; the state of being free…IELTS freedom of speechThe right to express any opinion in public without censorship or restraint by go…IELTS frequencyThe rate at which a vibration occurs; number of cycles per secondTOEFL · IELTS frequentOccurring or done many times at short intervalsTOEFL frequentlyRegularly or habitually; at short intervals.TOEFL · IELTS frictionThe resistance when one object moves over anotherTOEFL frivolousNot having any serious purpose or value; carefree and not serious.GRE frugalSparing or economical with money or food; simple and plain.GRE · IELTS frustratedFeeling or expressing distress and annoyance resulting from an inability to chan…IELTS fulfillingProviding deep satisfaction and a sense of purpose.IELTS fulminateTo express vehement protest or criticism.GRE fulsomeExcessively flattering or insincerely lavish in praise; offensively overdone.GRE functionA mathematical relation that assigns exactly one output to each input from a giv…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS fundamentalForming a necessary base or core; of central importance.TOEFL · IELTS fungusA spore-producing organism feeding on organic matterTOEFL furthermoreIn addition; besides; used to introduce a new point.IELTS furtiveAttempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief …GRE fusionThe process of joining atomic nuclei to release energyTOEFL futileIncapable of producing any useful result; pointless.GRE

G

gainsaytake exception toGRE galaxyA system of millions of stars bound by gravityTOEFL gallonA unit of liquid capacity equal to 128 U.S. fluid ounces (approximately 3.785 li…GRE galvanizeTo shock or excite someone into taking action.GRE gapA break or missing element in a series or textTOEFL gap-fillAn exercise requiring missing information to be addedTOEFL garrulousfull of trivial conversationGRE gaussianRelating to the Gaussian (normal) distribution, a bell-shaped probability curve …GRE GDPGross Domestic Product; the total value of goods produced and services provided …IELTS gender equalityThe state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender.IELTS gene editingTechniques that allow scientists to alter the DNA sequence of a living organism.IELTS gene expressionThe process by which instructions in DNA produce proteinsTOEFL generalNot specific; affecting all or most peopleTOEFL general ideaThe main or central concept of a textTOEFL generalizationA broad statement derived from specific casesTOEFL generalizeTo make a broad statement based on limited evidenceTOEFL generallyIn most cases; usually; without specific considerations.IELTS generateTo produce or create something; to cause something to arise.TOEFL · IELTS geneticRelating to genes or heredity; relating to the origin or development of somethin…IELTS genetic engineeringThe deliberate modification of an organism's genes using biotechnology.IELTS genetically modifiedAltered by genetic engineering; having genes artificially changed.IELTS genialityThe quality of having a friendly and cheerful manner.GRE genomeThe complete set of genes or genetic material in an organismTOEFL genreA category of artistic composition characterized by similarities in form, style,…GRE · TOEFL genteelPolite, refined, or respectable, often in an affected or ostentatious way.GRE gentilitySocial superiority as demonstrated by polite and respectable manners, behavior, …GRE genuineTruly what something is said to be; authentic; sincere.IELTS geographicRelating to geography or a regionTOEFL geologyThe science which deals with the physical structure and substance of the earth.TOEFL · IELTS geometricRelating to geometry, or characterized by a constant ratio between successive te…GRE geopoliticsPolitics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical fact…IELTS geosphereThe solid rocky portion of the EarthTOEFL germaneRelevant and appropriate to the matter at hand.GRE germinationThe process by which a seed begins to growTOEFL glacierA slowly moving mass of ice formed by the accumulation and compaction of snow.TOEFL · IELTS glibFluent and voluble but insincere and shallow.GRE globalRelating to the whole world; worldwide.TOEFL · IELTS global governanceThe system of governance that deals with issues that transcend national borders.IELTS globalisationThe process by which businesses or organisations develop international influence…IELTS glucoseA simple sugar that is the primary energy source for cellsTOEFL goadstab or urge on as if with a pointed stickGRE goalThe result or achievement toward which effort is directedTOEFL gorgeA narrow valley between hills or mountains, typically with steep rocky walls.IELTS gougean impression in a surface, as made by a blowGRE governTo control or direct the behavior of somethingTOEFL governanceThe action or manner of governing a state or organisation.IELTS gradeA level of rank or quality; a score on a testTOEFL gradientThe rate of change of a quantity with respect to distance; in calculus, a vector…GRE gradualTaking place or progressing slowly or by degrees.TOEFL · IELTS graduallyIn a gradual or slow manner; by small degrees.IELTS graduateA person who has successfully completed a university degree; to receive a degree…IELTS grammarThe rules governing the structure of a languageTOEFL grandiloquentlofty in styleGRE graphA visual representation of data or mathematical relationships, typically using a…GRE graspTo understand somethingTOEFL gratefulFeeling or showing an appreciation of kindness; thankful.IELTS gravityExtreme importance or seriousness; also, the force that attracts a body toward a…GRE · TOEFL green economyAn economy that results in improved human wellbeing and social equity while redu…IELTS green energyEnergy produced from renewable, environmentally friendly sources.IELTS greenhouseA glass structure for growing plants; relating to the greenhouse effect.IELTS greenhouse effectThe trapping of the sun's warmth in the earth's lower atmosphere due to gases.IELTS greenhouse gasA gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation.TOEFL · IELTS gregarioustemperamentally seeking and enjoying the company of othersGRE · SAT groundwaterWater held underground in the soil or in pores and crevices in rock.IELTS guidelineA general rule or piece of adviceTOEFL guileSly or cunning intelligence used to deceive.GRE guilelessfree of deceitGRE guiseAn external form or appearance, especially one that conceals the true nature of …GRE

H

habitA settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give u…IELTS habitatThe natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.TOEFL · IELTS hackneyedLacking significance through having been overused; unoriginal.GRE half-lifeThe time for half a radioactive substance to decayTOEFL hamiltonianIn mathematics and physics, a function describing the total energy of a system; …GRE hamperto hinder or obstruct the movement or progress of somethingSAT handleTo manage a situation or problem; to touch or hold in one's hands.IELTS hangara large building where aircraft are kept and maintainedSAT haranguea lengthy and aggressive speech; to lecture someone at length in angerGRE · SAT harbingerA person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another.GRE harbingersthings that announce or signal the approach of somethingSAT harborto give shelter or refuge to; to keep or hold in the mindSAT hardshipSevere suffering or privation; difficulty.IELTS hastento be quick to do something; to cause to happen soonerSAT haughtinessthe quality of being arrogantly superior and disdainfulSAT headstrongenergetically self-willed and difficult to control; stubbornSAT healthcareThe organised provision of medical care to individuals or a community.IELTS heatwaveA prolonged period of abnormally hot weather.IELTS hedgeTo use cautious language to qualify a claimTOEFL hedge wordA word softening the certainty of a claimTOEFL hedgingUsing cautious language to qualify a claimTOEFL hedging languageCautious language that qualifies or limits claimsTOEFL hedonismThe pursuit of pleasure as the highest good and the primary motivation for human…GRE · SAT hedonista person who believes that pleasure is the chief goodGRE · SAT heedto pay careful attention to; to take notice ofSAT hegemonythe dominance or leadership of one social group over othersGRE heightThe vertical measurement of something from base to top; in geometry, the perpend…GRE hemisphereA half of the earth, usually divided into northern and southern or eastern and w…IELTS heptagonA polygon with seven sides and seven angles.GRE herbivoreAn animal that feeds on plants.IELTS heredityThe passing on of physical or mental characteristics geneticallyTOEFL heresybelief or opinion contrary to orthodox doctrine; heterodoxyGRE · SAT hereticalHolding an opinion at odds with what is generally accepted, especially in religi…GRE heritageProperty inherited from ancestors; the values and traditions passed down through…IELTS heritage siteA location of special cultural, historical, or environmental significance.IELTS hermeticcompletely sealed or airtightGRE hesitateTo pause before acting or speaking, especially due to uncertainty.IELTS heuristicA practical problem-solving approach that employs a strategy not guaranteed to b…GRE hexagonA polygon with six sides and six angles.GRE hiatusa pause or gap in a sequence, series, or processSAT hideboundunwilling to change because of tradition; narrow-mindedSAT hierarchyA system in which members of an organisation or society are ranked according to …TOEFL · IELTS hieroglyphicRelating to a system of writing using pictorial symbols, especially as used in a…GRE hieroglyphicswriting consisting of pictures; writing that is difficult to readSAT highlightTo draw attention to something as being especially important.TOEFL · IELTS hinderto impede or delay the progress of somethingSAT histrionicDeliberately affected or excessively dramatic in behavior or speech.GRE · SAT hoaryold and trite; very old; grey with ageSAT homelessWithout a home; living on the streets.IELTS homeostasisThe maintenance of stable internal conditions in a living organismTOEFL homogeneousComposed of parts or elements that are all of the same kind; uniform in structur…GRE honeto sharpen a blade; to improve or perfect a skillSAT honestFree of deceit; truthful and sincere.IELTS horizontalA line or plane parallel to the x-axis or the plane of the horizon, having zero …GRE hormoneA chemical messenger produced in the bodyTOEFL howeverUsed to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict somethi…IELTS hubrisExcessive pride or arrogance, especially that which invites downfall or retribut…GRE human rightsRights held by every person by virtue of being human, such as the right to life …IELTS human traffickingThe illegal movement of people, typically for forced labour or commercial sexual…IELTS humanitarianConcerned with or seeking to promote human welfare; relating to relief of suffer…IELTS humbleHaving or showing a modest or low estimate of one's own importance.IELTS humidMarked by a relatively high level of water vapour in the atmosphere.IELTS hungerA feeling of discomfort caused by lack of food; a severe shortage of food.IELTS hybrid vehicleA vehicle that uses two or more distinct types of power, typically petrol and el…IELTS hydrocarbonA compound of hydrogen and carbon found in fossil fuelsTOEFL hydrosphereAll the water on Earth's surfaceTOEFL hyperbolaA conic section formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane at an angle st…GRE hyperboleexaggerated statements not meant to be taken literallySAT hypochondriaca person who is abnormally anxious about their healthSAT hypocriticalbehaving in a way that contradicts one's stated beliefs; two-facedSAT hypotenuseThe side of a right triangle opposite the right angle, and the longest side of t…GRE hypothesisA supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence, ser…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS hypothesis testingThe statistical process of evaluating a research hypothesisTOEFL hypothesizeTo put forward a hypothesis; to suppose something as a basis for reasoning.IELTS

I

iconoclastA person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs, institutions, or establish…GRE · SAT iconoclasticcharacterized by attack on established beliefsGRE icosahedronA polyhedron with twenty faces, especially a regular icosahedron whose faces are…GRE idealSatisfying one's conception of what is perfect; most suitable.IELTS identicalIn mathematics, being exactly equal in value, form, or properties such that one …GRE · IELTS identifyTo recognize and name something or someoneTOEFL identityThe fact of being who or what a person or thing is; a sense of self.IELTS ideologicalRelating to or based on a system of ideas and ideals, especially concerning poli…GRE idiosyncrasya characteristic peculiar to an individual; a quirkSAT idolatrythe worship of combatable thingsGRE ignominiousdeserving or causing public disgrace or shame; humiliatingSAT ignominyPublic shame or disgrace; deep personal humiliation and dishonor.GRE · SAT ignoranceLack of knowledge or information about something.IELTS illiteracyThe inability to read or write.IELTS illuminateto light up; to help make something clear or easier to understandSAT · IELTS illusorybased on an illusion; not realSAT illustrateTo explain or make something clear by using examples, charts, or pictures.TOEFL · IELTS illustrativeServing as an example or explanationTOEFL imaginationThe faculty of forming new ideas or images not present to the senses.IELTS imaginativeHaving or showing creativity or inventiveness.IELTS imbroglioAn extremely confused, complicated, or embarrassing situation, especially one in…GRE imbueTo permeate or inspire with a feeling, quality, or idea.GRE immediateOccurring or done at once; without delay; nearest or most recent.IELTS immigrationThe action of coming to live permanently in a foreign country.IELTS imminentAbout to happen; impending and likely to occur very soon.GRE immoderatenot sensible or restrained; excessiveSAT immune responseThe body's reaction to antigensTOEFL immune systemThe body's defense against infection and diseaseTOEFL immunisationThe process by which a person becomes immune to infection, typically by vaccinat…IELTS immutableunchanging over time; unable to be changed or alteredGRE · SAT impactA marked effect or influence on someone or somethingTOEFL · IELTS impairmake worse or less effectiveGRE impartialtreating all rivals or disputants equally; unbiased and fairGRE · SAT · TOEFL impecunioushaving little or no money; poorSAT impedebe a hindrance or obstacle toGRE impedimentA hindrance or obstruction that delays or prevents progress.GRE imperiousAssuming power or authority without justification; domineering and overbearing.GRE imperturbableUnable to be upset or excited; remaining calm under all circumstances.GRE imperviousnot admitting of passage or capable of being affectedGRE impetuousActing or done quickly and without thought or care; impulsive and rash.GRE impiousnot showing respect for religious matters; irreverentSAT implacableincapable of being appeased or pacifiedGRE implementTo put a decision, plan, or agreement into effect.TOEFL · IELTS implicationA conclusion that can be drawn from something although not explicitly stated; an…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS implicitNot stated directly but understood from contextGRE · TOEFL implyTo suggest or indicate something without saying it directly.TOEFL · IELTS importTo bring goods or services into a country from abroad for sale.IELTS importantOf great significance or consequenceTOEFL imposeTo force something unwelcome to be accepted or put in place.TOEFL · IELTS impoverishedreduced to poverty; lacking quality or richnessSAT imprecationA spoken curse; an invocation of evil or misfortune upon someone.GRE impressionAn idea, feeling, or opinion about something or someone; an effect produced on t…IELTS imprimaturAn official approval or sanction, especially of a publication; an authoritative …GRE impromptudone without being planned or rehearsed; spontaneousSAT improveTo make or become better.IELTS improvidentNot having or showing foresight; failing to provide for future needs; spendthrif…GRE impudentimproperly forward or boldGRE impugnTo call into question the integrity or validity of; to challenge or dispute as f…GRE imputeTo attribute or ascribe a characteristic, action, or motive to someone, often wi…GRE inadequateLacking the quality or quantity required; insufficient.IELTS inadvertentnot resulting from deliberate planning; happening by accidentSAT inaneLacking sense or meaning; silly and pointless.GRE incantationa series of words said as a magic spell; a chantSAT incarcerationthe state of being imprisonedSAT incentiveA thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something.TOEFL · IELTS incessantuninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuingGRE · SAT inchoateonly partly in existence; imperfectly formedGRE incipientbeginning to happen or develop; in early stagesSAT inciteto provoke or urge someone to do something, typically something badSAT inclinationa tendency or disposition toward a particular thingSAT inclusiveNot excluding any section of society; including everyone.IELTS incoherentexpressed in a way that is hard to understand; confusedSAT incomeMoney received, especially on a regular basis, for work or through investments.TOEFL · IELTS income gapThe difference in earnings between the richest and poorest people in an economy.IELTS incongruitythe quality of disagreeingGRE incongruousnot in harmony with the surroundings; out of placeSAT inconsequentialnot important or significant; trivialGRE · SAT inconsistencyThe fact of having parts that do not agree with or match each other.IELTS inconspicuousnot clearly visible or attracting attention; unnoticeableSAT incontrovertibleNot able to be denied or disputed; unquestionable and beyond argument.GRE incorporatemake into a whole or make part of a wholeGRE · TOEFL increaseA quantitative change in which a value becomes larger; the amount by which a qua…GRE · IELTS inculcateTo instill an attitude, idea, or habit by persistent instruction or repetition.GRE incursionAn invasion or attack, especially a sudden or brief one into foreign territory.GRE indefatigablePersisting tirelessly; showing sustained effort and determination without yieldi…GRE indeliblemaking marks that cannot be removed; permanentSAT indentationThe setting in of text from the marginTOEFL independentFree from outside control; not dependent on another for livelihood.IELTS indeterminatenot precisely determined or establishedGRE indicateTo point out or show; to be a sign of something.TOEFL · IELTS indicatorA thing that indicates the state or level of something; a sign or measure.IELTS indifferentHaving no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned or apathetic.GRE · SAT indigencea state of extreme poverty or destitutionGRE indigenousOriginating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.SAT · IELTS indigenous rightsRights of native peoples to maintain and develop their identities, cultures, and…IELTS indignantFeeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment.GRE individualSingle; separate; a single human being distinct from a group.IELTS indolenceavoidance of activity; lazinessSAT indolentdisinclined to work or exertionGRE inducteea person who has been inducted into an organization or groupSAT indulgenthaving a tendency to be overly generous; lenient; yielding to desiresSAT industrialRelating to industry; characterised by highly developed industries.IELTS inebriationthe state of being drunk; intoxicationSAT ineffableToo great or extreme to be expressed or described in words; indescribable.GRE · SAT inepthaving or showing no skill; lacking competenceSAT inequalityA mathematical statement that compares two expressions using symbols such as <, …GRE · IELTS inertunable to move or resist motionGRE inertiatendency to remain unchanged; resistance to change or motionSAT · TOEFL inevitablecertain to happen; unable to be avoided or escapedSAT · TOEFL · IELTS inexorableImpossible to stop or prevent; unyielding and relentless in progression.GRE infallibleIncapable of making mistakes or being wrong; consistently reliable and accurate.GRE infamyThe state of being well known for some bad quality or deed; notoriety for wicked…GRE infant mortalityThe death rate among infants within the first year of life.IELTS infectionThe invasion of the body by pathogensTOEFL inferTo deduce or conclude from evidenceTOEFL inferenceA conclusion drawn from evidence and reasoningTOEFL inflectionA point on a curve at which the curvature changes sign, transitioning from conca…GRE influenceThe capacity or power to have an effect on someone or something.TOEFL · IELTS informationFacts or data provided or learnedTOEFL infraredElectromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than visible lightTOEFL infrastructureThe basic physical and organisational structures needed for the operation of a s…IELTS ingeniousCleverly inventive or resourceful; showing remarkable originality and skill.GRE ingenuouslacking in sophistication or worldlinessGRE inherentExisting in something as a permanent, essential, or characteristic attribute.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS inheritedReceived genetically from one's ancestorsTOEFL initialExisting at the beginningTOEFL initiativeThe ability to assess and take action independently; a new plan or process.IELTS innocuousnot injurious to physical or mental healthGRE innovationA new method, idea, product, or process; the action of innovating.IELTS innovativeIntroducing new ideas or methodsTOEFL innuendoAn allusive or oblique remark or hint, typically a suggestive or disparaging one…GRE inputSomething that is put in or contributedTOEFL inquireTo seek information by askingTOEFL inscrutableof an obscure natureGRE insensiblebarely able to be perceivedGRE insightThe capacity to gain accurate and deep understanding of someone or something.TOEFL · IELTS insinuatesuggest in an indirect or covert wayGRE insipidlacking interest or significance or impactGRE insoucianceCasual lack of concern; a carefree indifference to serious matters.GRE inspireTo fill with the urge or ability to do something creative; to breathe in.IELTS insteadAs an alternative or substitute.IELTS instinctAn innate, typically fixed pattern of behaviour in animals in response to stimul…IELTS institutionalRelating to institutions or established organizationsTOEFL insufficientNot enough; inadequate.IELTS insularitythe state of being combated or isolatedGRE insulationMaterial preventing heat, electricity, or sound from passing throughTOEFL integerA whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero, belonging to the set {..…GRE integralIn calculus, the integral of a function represents the accumulated area under it…GRE integrateTo combine or incorporate parts into a whole; to bring into equal membership.TOEFL · IELTS integrate sourcesTo blend quoted or paraphrased material into your own textTOEFL integrationThe action of combining groups to create an equal society; mixing into a whole.TOEFL · IELTS intendTo have a course of action as one's purpose or objective.IELTS intenseOf extreme force, degree, or strength; having strong feelings.TOEFL · IELTS intentWhat one intends to do; a firm decisionTOEFL interactTo act in such a way as to have an effect on another; to communicate or work tog…IELTS interactiveAllowing two-way communication or responseTOEFL interceptThe point at which a line or curve crosses a coordinate axis; the x-intercept is…GRE interdictTo prohibit or forbid authoritatively; to intercept and prevent the movement of …GRE interestA feeling of wanting to know or learn about something; a quality that makes some…IELTS interloperA person who becomes involved in a place or situation where they are not wanted …GRE internationalisationThe process of developing something so that it is suitable for use in different …IELTS internetA global computer network providing information and communication facilities.IELTS internet of thingsThe interconnection of everyday objects to the internet enabling them to send an…IELTS interplayThe way in which things interact with each other.IELTS interpolateTo insert something between existing elements; to estimate an unknown value that…GRE interpretTo explain the meaning of information or an action.TOEFL · IELTS interpretationAn explanation or understanding of somethingTOEFL intersectTo cross or meet at a point; in geometry, two lines intersect when they share ex…GRE intersectionIn set theory, the intersection of two sets is the set of elements common to bot…GRE interspecificOccurring between different speciesTOEFL intervalA set of all real numbers between two given endpoints, which may be open (exclud…GRE intimateTo suggest or hint at something subtly and indirectly; to imply without explicit…GRE intransigentUnwilling or refusing to change one's views or to agree about something; stubbor…GRE intrepidFearless and adventurous; showing resolute courage in the face of danger.GRE intricateVery complicated or detailed; having many complexly arranged elements.GRE introduceTo bring something into a system, organisation, or place for the first time.IELTS introductionThe opening section of a piece of writingTOEFL introspectionThe examination or observation of one's own mental and emotional processes.GRE invasiveTending to spread very quickly and widely; spreading harmfully.IELTS invasive speciesA non-native organism that disrupts its new ecosystemTOEFL invectiveInsulting, abusive, or highly critical language directed against someone.GRE inveighTo speak or write about something with great hostility; to protest or rail vehem…GRE inveigleTo persuade someone to do something by means of deception or flattery; to entice…GRE inverseA mathematical relationship in which one quantity increases as another decreases…GRE investigateTo carry out a systematic or formal inquiry into; to research.TOEFL · IELTS invokeTo cite or appeal to someone or something as an authority for an action or in su…GRE involveTo include as a necessary part or result; to require participation.TOEFL · IELTS ionAn atom or molecule with a net electric chargeTOEFL ionizationThe process of turning an atom into an ionTOEFL irrationalA real number that cannot be expressed as a ratio of two integers; its decimal e…GRE irresoluteuncertain how to act or proceedGRE irrigationThe supply of water to land or crops to help growth, typically by means of chann…IELTS isolateTo separate from others; to identify separatelyTOEFL isolationThe process or fact of being isolated; the state of being in a place or situatio…IELTS isoscelesDescribing a triangle that has exactly two sides of equal length, with the angle…GRE isotopeA variant of an element with a different number of neutronsTOEFL issueAn important topic or problem for debate or discussion.TOEFL · IELTS iterationThe repetition of a mathematical or computational process, applying it to the re…GRE itineranttraveling from place to place to workGRE

J

jacobianA matrix of all first-order partial derivatives of a vector-valued function, use…GRE jargonSpecialized language used by a particular groupTOEFL jibeTo be in accord or agreement; to be consistent with something.GRE jovialcheerful and friendly; full of good humorSAT juntaA military or political group that rules a country after seizing power by force.GRE jurisprudenceThe theory or philosophy of law; the study and interpretation of legal principle…GRE justiceJust behaviour or treatment; the quality of being fair and reasonable.IELTS justifyTo show sufficient reason for an action or decisionTOEFL · IELTS juxtaposeTo place close together or side by side for comparison or contrast.GRE

K

keenHaving or showing eagerness or enthusiasm; sharp or penetrating.IELTS kenThe range of what one can know or understand; one's scope of knowledge or percep…GRE key argumentThe central claim around which an essay is organizedTOEFL key termA word or phrase central to understanding a topicTOEFL kindergartenA school or class for young children, typically aged between 3 and 6.IELTS kindleto light or set on fire; to arouse or inspire a feelingSAT kinetic energyEnergy an object possesses due to its motionTOEFL kineticsThe branch of chemistry studying the rates of reactionsTOEFL kismetDestiny or fate, especially as determined by a higher power or cosmic force.GRE knottyextremely difficult to solve; full of complicationsSAT knowledgeFacts, information, and skills acquired through experienceTOEFL

L

labour marketThe availability of employment and the pool of people available for work.IELTS labyrintha complicated irregular network of passages; a mazeSAT labyrinthineresembling a labyrinth in complexity; intricate and confusingSAT lacerationa deep cut or tear in skin or fleshSAT lachrymoseTearful or given to weeping; inducing tears through excessive sentimentality.GRE · SAT lackA deficiency or absence of somethingTOEFL lacklusterLacking in vitality, force, or conviction; dull and uninspired.GRE · SAT laconicusing very few words; brief and terse in speech or expressionGRE · SAT lacunaAn unfilled space or gap, especially in a manuscript, text, or body of knowledge…GRE lagrangeReferring to methods or theorems associated with Joseph-Louis Lagrange, includin…GRE lambasteTo criticize harshly and severely; to reprimand or berate with great force.GRE lamentationthe expression of grief, regret, or sorrowSAT lampoonto publicly mock or satirize; a satirical attackSAT lancea long weapon with a pointed metal head; to pierce with a lanceSAT land useThe way in which land is used for agriculture, industry, housing, or conservatio…IELTS landfillA site for the disposal of waste materials by burying them.IELTS landscapeAll the visible features of an area of land; the overall appearance.IELTS languageThe system of words and grammar used by a communityTOEFL language choiceThe selection of specific words to convey a meaningTOEFL languiddisplaying a disinclination for physical exertion; listlessGRE · SAT languishto lose vitality and be weak; to be forced to remain in miserySAT laplacianA second-order differential operator equal to the divergence of the gradient of …GRE larcenytheft of personal property; stealingSAT largelyTo a great extent; mostly.IELTS largessgenerosity in bestowing money or gifts on othersSAT larvaAn immature form of an insect or other animalTOEFL larynxThe voice box; part of the respiratory tractTOEFL lasciviousFeeling or revealing an overt and often offensive sexual desire; lustful and lew…GRE lassitudea feeling of lack of interest or energyGRE latentpotentially existing but not presently evident or realizedGRE latitudeThe angular distance of a place north or south of the equator; freedom to act wi…IELTS laudto praise highly; to extolGRE · SAT laudableDeserving praise and commendation; worthy of admiration.GRE launchTo start or set in motion an activity or enterprise.IELTS lavaHot molten or semi-fluid rock erupted from a volcano or fissure.IELTS lavishsumptuously rich; giving or using in great quantitiesSAT laxnot sufficiently strict, severe, or careful; negligentSAT layerA sheet or thickness of material covering a surfaceTOEFL leadershipThe action of leading a group or organisation; the ability to lead.IELTS learning disabilityA condition that affects the way a person learns or processes information.IELTS lebesgueRelating to Henri Lebesgue's theory of measure and integration, which generalize…GRE lecture notesWritten records taken during a lectureTOEFL legacySomething handed down from a predecessor; a long-lasting effect.IELTS legenda traditional story of unclear historical basis; a key to a mapSAT legerdemainSkillful use of one's hands when performing tricks; deception or trickery.GRE legiona large number; a vast body of peopleSAT leisureTime when one is not working or occupied; free time.IELTS lengthThe measurement of the extent of something along its greatest dimension; in geom…GRE · TOEFL lethargicaffected by lethargy; sluggish and apatheticGRE · SAT leveean embankment built to prevent a river from overflowingGRE levitythe treatment of a serious matter with humor; lightnessGRE · SAT lexicalRelating to the words of a languageTOEFL lexical densityThe proportion of content words in a textTOEFL lexiconThe vocabulary of a person, language, or branch of knowledge; a dictionary or wo…GRE liberalshowing or characterized by broad-mindednessGRE libertariana person who believes in a high degree of individual freedomSAT life expectancyThe average period that a person may be expected to live.IELTS lifestyleThe way in which a person or group lives.IELTS light-yearThe distance light travels in one year, about 9.46 trillion kilometersTOEFL likelyProbable; having a high probability of occurringTOEFL · IELTS limitationA restriction; a point or condition that restricts what can be achieved.TOEFL · IELTS limpidclear and brightGRE lineageDirect descent from an ancestor; ancestry or pedigree.GRE linearRelating to or resembling a straight line; in mathematics, describing a function…GRE linimenta liquid medicine rubbed on the skin to relieve pain or stiffnessSAT linkA connection between two things; to connect or associate.TOEFL · IELTS linkerA word or phrase connecting parts of a textTOEFL linking verbA verb that connects the subject to an adjective or nounTOEFL lipidA class of organic compounds including fats and oilsTOEFL litanyA tedious recital or repetitive series; a long and monotonous list of complaints…GRE literacyThe ability to read and write; competence or knowledge in a specific area.IELTS literatureWritten works collectively; the body of written works on a subject.TOEFL · IELTS literature reviewA survey and evaluation of existing research on a topicTOEFL lithethin, supple, and graceful in movement; flexibleGRE · SAT lithosphereThe solid outer part of the Earth including the crustTOEFL livestockFarm animals regarded as an asset; animals kept or raised on a farm.IELTS lividfuriously angry; of a dark bluish color from bruisingSAT lobbyingThe activity of trying to influence politicians or government officials on an is…IELTS lobbyista person who tries to influence legislators on behalf of a causeSAT loftyof imposing height; elevated in character or status; haughtySAT loga segment of the trunk of a tree when stripped of branchesGRE logarithmThe exponent to which a base must be raised to produce a given number; if b^x = …GRE logicReasoning conducted according to strict principlesTOEFL logicalOf or according to the rules of logic or formal argument.TOEFL · IELTS logical connectorA word that shows a relationship between ideasTOEFL logical fallacyAn error in reasoning that undermines an argumentTOEFL logical structureThe organization of ideas according to logical principlesTOEFL longevitylong life; the length of time something lastsSAT longitudinal studyA research study following participants over an extended periodTOEFL loquacioustending to talk a great deal; garrulous and wordyGRE · SAT lucidclear and easy to understand; thinking clearlyGRE · SAT lucreMoney or profit, especially when regarded as sordid or obtained dishonorably.GRE ludicrousso foolish or unreasonable as to be amusing; absurdSAT lukewarmonly moderately warm; unenthusiasticSAT luminoussoftly bright or radiantGRE lummoxa clumsy, stupid personSAT luscioushaving a pleasingly rich, sweet taste; richly appealingSAT lustrousHaving a gentle sheen or soft glow; shining with reflected light.GRE lynchto kill someone by mob action, especially by hangingSAT

M

machinationA crafty scheme or plot intended to accomplish some usually evil end; an underha…GRE machinationsplots and schemes, especially ones that are deviousSAT macro-levelRelating to the large-scale or overall structure of somethingTOEFL maelstromA powerful whirlpool; a situation or state of confused and turbulent movement or…GRE · SAT magmaMolten rock beneath the Earth's surfaceTOEFL magnanimityliberality in bestowing giftsGRE magnanimousVery generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful.GRE · SAT magnateA wealthy and influential person, especially in business or industry.GRE · SAT magnetic fieldA region around a magnetic material where magnetic force actsTOEFL magniloquentUsing high-flown or bombastic language; speaking in a lofty or grandiose style.GRE magnitudeThe size, extent, or absolute value of a quantity; in mathematics, the length of…GRE · IELTS mainPrincipal or most importantTOEFL main ideaThe central point of a piece of writingTOEFL main pointThe most important idea in a text or argumentTOEFL maintainTo cause or enable a condition or situation to continue; to assert confidently.TOEFL · IELTS majorImportant, serious, or significant; greater in number or importance.TOEFL · IELTS majorityThe greater number or part of something; the number of votes exceeding half the …IELTS maladroitinefficient or clumsy; lacking skillSAT maladya disease or ailment; a problem or issueSAT malapropismThe mistaken use of a word in place of a similar-sounding one, often with humoro…GRE maledictiona curse or something spoken as a curseSAT malefactora person who commits a crime or wrong; an evildoerSAT malfeasanceWrongdoing or misconduct, especially by a public official; illegal or unethical …GRE malingerto pretend to be ill to avoid duty or workGRE · SAT malingerera person who pretends to be ill to avoid dutySAT malleableable to be shaped; easily influenced; adaptableGRE · SAT malleta hammer with a large head; a stick used in polo or croquetSAT malnutritionLack of proper nutrition, caused by insufficient, excessive, or unbalanced intak…IELTS mammalA warm-blooded vertebrate animal that nurses its young with milk.IELTS manageTo be in charge of; to succeed in coping with a difficult situation.IELTS manifestTo become apparent through signs; clear and obviousTOEFL manifoldIn mathematics, a topological space that locally resembles Euclidean space near …GRE manipulatableable to be influenced or controlled by others; easily swayedSAT mantleThe layer of the Earth between the crust and coreTOEFL marginaliseTo treat a person, group, or concept as insignificant or peripheral.IELTS marginalizeTo treat a person or group as unimportant or powerlessTOEFL marineRelating to the sea; found in the sea.IELTS markovRelating to stochastic processes in which the probability of each event depends …GRE marredimpaired or damaged; spoiledSAT marshAn area of low-lying land that is flooded in wet seasons.IELTS marshalto arrange or gather together in order; to lead or guideSAT marsupiala mammal with a pouch in which its young developSAT martinetA strict disciplinarian, especially in the military; someone who demands absolut…GRE · SAT masochista person who derives pleasure from their own pain or humiliationSAT massA measure of the amount of matter in an object, typically measured in kilograms …GRE · TOEFL mass extinctionAn event in which a large proportion of species die outTOEFL matriarchya social system in which females hold the primary powerSAT matrixA rectangular array of numbers, symbols, or expressions arranged in rows and col…GRE matterPhysical substance; a subject or situation under consideration; to be important.TOEFL · IELTS mavericksomeone who exhibits independence in thought and actionGRE meaningfulHaving a serious, important, or useful quality or purpose.IELTS measureA course of action taken to achieve a desired outcome; an indicator of something…IELTS measurementThe process of assigning a numerical value to a physical quantity by comparing i…GRE mechanismA system of parts working together; a natural or established process.TOEFL · IELTS mediaThe main means of mass communication; the news and broadcasting.IELTS media literacyThe ability to access, analyse, evaluate, and create media in various forms.IELTS medianThe middle value in an ordered data set; if the set has an even number of values…GRE mediocreOf only moderate quality; neither good nor bad; lacking distinction or excellenc…GRE meiosisCell division producing four genetically different daughter cellsTOEFL membraneA thin pliable sheet of tissue or materialTOEFL mendaciousintentionally untrueGRE mendicantA person who lives by begging; relating to or characteristic of a beggar.GRE mental healthA person's condition with regard to their psychological and emotional wellbeing.IELTS mentalityThe characteristic way of thinking of a person or group.IELTS mentionTo refer to something briefly and without going into detail.TOEFL · IELTS mercenaryPrimarily concerned with making money at the expense of ethics; a person hired t…GRE meretriciousApparently attractive but having in reality no value or integrity; superficially…GRE meritoriousDeserving reward, praise, or recognition for excellence or worthiness.GRE metabolismThe chemical processes that maintain life in an organismTOEFL metacognitionAwareness and understanding of one's own thought processesTOEFL metamorphoseTo change completely in form, nature, or character; to undergo a profound transf…GRE metamorphosisa complete change of physical form or substanceGRE meteoriteA piece of rock or metal from space that survives its fall to earth.IELTS meteorologyThe scientific study of the atmosphere and weatherTOEFL meterThe base unit of length in the International System of Units (SI), defined as th…GRE methodA particular way of doing somethingTOEFL methodologicalRelating to the methods used in research or analysisTOEFL methodological rigorThe quality of being thorough and precise in research methodsTOEFL methodologyA system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity.TOEFL · IELTS meticulousmarked by precise accordance with detailsGRE meticulousnessThe quality of showing great attention to detail; extreme carefulness and precis…GRE metricA function that defines a distance between elements of a set, satisfying conditi…GRE mettleA person's ability to cope well with difficulties or to face a demanding situati…GRE micro-levelRelating to the small-scale or detailed aspects of somethingTOEFL microbeA microorganism, especially one which causes disease.IELTS microbiologyThe study of microorganismsTOEFL microfinanceFinancial services provided to low-income individuals or groups who lack access …IELTS microscopyThe use of microscopes to view objects too small for the naked eyeTOEFL midpointThe point on a line segment that is equidistant from both endpoints, calculated …GRE migrateTo move from one area or country to anotherTOEFL migrationSeasonal movement of animals from one region to another; movement of people to s…TOEFL · IELTS migration crisisA situation in which a large number of people are forced to leave their homes.IELTS mindfulConscious or aware of something; focused on one's current experience.IELTS mineralA solid inorganic substance found in the earth with a definite chemical composit…TOEFL · IELTS minimizeTo reduce something to the smallest possible amountTOEFL minimum wageThe lowest wage permitted by law or by a special agreement.IELTS minorLess important; smaller in scaleTOEFL miracleA surprising and welcome event that seems impossible; an extraordinary developme…IELTS misanthropesomeone who dislikes people in generalGRE miscreantA person who behaves badly or in a way that breaks the law; a wrongdoer or villa…GRE misinformationFalse or inaccurate information, especially that which is deliberately intended …IELTS mitigateTo make less severe, serious, or painful; to lessen the impact of.GRE · IELTS mitochondriaOrganelles that generate energy for the cellTOEFL mitosisCell division producing two identical daughter cellsTOEFL mnemonicA device such as a pattern of letters, ideas, or associations that assists in re…GRE modal verbA verb expressing possibility, necessity, or permissionTOEFL modalityThe expression of possibility, necessity, or obligationTOEFL modeThe value that appears most frequently in a data set; a data set may have one mo…GRE modelA simplified description or framework used in analysisTOEFL modestUnassuming in the estimation of one's abilities; relatively small in size or qua…IELTS modicumA small quantity of a particular thing, especially something considered desirabl…GRE modifyTo make partial changes to somethingTOEFL moistureWater or other liquid diffused in a small quantity as vapour or within a solid.IELTS moleculeA group of atoms bonded together; the smallest fundamental unit of a compound.TOEFL · IELTS mollifycause to be more favorably inclinedGRE momentumThe impetus gained by a moving object; the increasing strength or force of somet…TOEFL · IELTS monitorTo observe and check the progress or quality of something over a period of time.TOEFL · IELTS monocultureThe cultivation of a single crop in a given area; a culture dominated by a singl…IELTS monsoonA seasonal prevailing wind bringing heavy rain to South Asia and other regions.IELTS moralConcerned with the principles of right and wrong behaviour; virtuous.IELTS moreoverAs a further matter; besides; in addition.IELTS moroseshowing a brooding ill humorGRE mortalityThe state of being subject to death; the number of deaths in a given time or pla…IELTS motivateTo provide someone with a reason for doing something; to inspire action.TOEFL · IELTS motivationA reason for acting in a particular way; the general desire to do something.TOEFL · IELTS multiculturalRelating to or containing several cultural or ethnic groups within a society.IELTS multifariousMany and of various types; exhibiting great diversity and variety.GRE multipleA number that can be divided by another number without a remainder; the product …GRE multiplicationA fundamental arithmetic operation that combines two numbers (factors) to produc…GRE mundaneordinary and not interesting; dull or everydaySAT munificentExtremely generous; characterized by great liberality in giving.GRE museTo think about something carefully and at length; to be absorbed in thought or r…GRE mutationA change in the DNA sequence of a geneTOEFL myopicLacking imagination, foresight, or intellectual insight; narrowly focused on imm…GRE myriada large indefinite numberGRE

N

nanotechnologyThe branch of technology that deals with dimensions in the nanometre range.IELTS narrativeA spoken or written account of connected events; a story.TOEFL · IELTS nascentJust beginning to develop; emerging and not yet fully formed.GRE nativeAssociated with the place or circumstances of birth; original to a region.IELTS nattySmart and fashionable in dress or appearance; neatly and stylishly dressed.GRE natural disasterA sudden event caused by natural forces that causes great damage or loss of life…IELTS natural selectionThe process by which traits that aid survival become more commonTOEFL navigateTo plan and direct the route of a ship, aircraft, or other form of transport; to…TOEFL · IELTS necessityThe state of being required or indispensable; an indispensable thing.IELTS necromancyThe supposed practice of communicating with the dead to predict the future; sorc…GRE negateto nullify or make ineffective; to deny or contradictGRE · SAT negativeA number less than zero, represented with a minus sign; on a number line, negati…GRE · IELTS neighbourA person living near or next door to the speaker or person referred to.IELTS neophyteany new participant in some activityGRE net zeroA state in which greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere are balanced by re…IELTS nettleTo irritate or annoy someone; to provoke with petty vexations.GRE networkA group or system of interconnected people or things.IELTS neuralRelating to the nervous systemTOEFL neuronA nerve cell that transmits electrical signalsTOEFL neuroscienceThe branch of science dealing with the structure and function of the nervous sys…IELTS neutralNot supporting either side in a conflictTOEFL neutronA subatomic particle with no electric charge found in the nucleusTOEFL neverthelessIn spite of that; notwithstanding; all the same.IELTS nicheThe role and position of an organism in its ecosystemTOEFL nihilismThe rejection of all religious and moral principles, often based on the belief t…GRE nitrogenA colourless, odourless gas comprising about 78% of the earth's atmosphere.IELTS nitrogen cycleThe process by which nitrogen is converted between formsTOEFL nocturnalDone, occurring, or active at night.TOEFL · IELTS noise pollutionHarmful or annoying levels of noise in an environment.IELTS nomadicLiving the life of a nomad; wandering from place to place.IELTS nominal groupA phrase centered on a nounTOEFL nominalizationTurning a verb or adjective into a nounTOEFL non-governmental organisationA non-profit organisation that operates independently of any government.IELTS nonchalanceThe quality of appearing casually calm and relaxed; a lack of concern or enthusi…GRE nonplussedSo surprised and confused that one is unsure how to react; bewildered and at a l…GRE normSomething that is usual, typical, or standard; an expected standard of behaviour…TOEFL · IELTS normativeRelating to an ideal standard or modelTOEFL nostalgiaA sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past.GRE nostrumA medicine of unproven effectiveness; a pet scheme or favorite remedy, especiall…GRE notableWorthy of attention or notice; remarkable.IELTS notablyIn a way that is particularly noticeableTOEFL notationA system of symbols or signs used to represent numbers, quantities, or operation…GRE noteA brief record of points heard in a lectureTOEFL note-takingThe practice of recording information heard or readTOEFL note-taking strategyA method for recording key information efficientlyTOEFL notionA conception or belief; a vague or imperfect understanding.TOEFL · IELTS notoriousFamous or well known, typically for some bad quality or deed; widely and unfavor…GRE nowadaysAt the present time, as contrasted with the past.IELTS noxiousharmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant to healthSAT nuanceA subtle difference in or shade of meaning, expression, or sound.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS nuclear energyEnergy produced by nuclear reactions, used in power generation.IELTS nucleusThe central part of an atom or cell containing genetic materialTOEFL nullifyTo make legally null and void; to invalidate or render ineffective.GRE · SAT numeralA figure, symbol, or group of figures or symbols denoting a number in a given nu…GRE numeratorThe number above the line in a fraction, representing how many parts of the whol…GRE nutrientA substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance o…TOEFL · IELTS nuzzleto rub or push gently with the nose and mouth; to snuggleSAT

O

obduratestubbornly refusing to change one's opinion; hardened against persuasionGRE · SAT obesityThe condition of being grossly overweight or overfat; a chronic health problem.IELTS obfuscateTo render obscure, unclear, or unintelligible; to deliberately make something co…GRE · SAT objectiveNot influenced by personal feelings; based on observable facts.SAT · TOEFL · IELTS objective toneLanguage that presents facts without personal feelingsTOEFL objective writingWriting based on facts rather than personal feelingsTOEFL obligationAn act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty…IELTS obligeto do something as a favor; to be helpful or accommodatingSAT obliqueNot explicit or direct in stating or expressing something; slanting or angled ra…GRE · SAT obliterateto destroy utterly; to leave no trace ofSAT oblivionThe state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening; the state of bei…GRE obliviousNot aware of or not concerned about what is happening around one; utterly unmind…GRE · SAT obscurenot discovered or known about; difficult to understand; to concealSAT obscuredmade difficult to perceive clearly; hidden or coveredSAT obsequiousexcessively obedient and eager to please; servileGRE · SAT observationThe action or process of closely monitoring or examining something.IELTS observeTo notice or perceive something; to watch carefullyTOEFL obsessiona dominating concern or idea that continually preoccupies the mindSAT obsoleteNo longer produced or used; out of date.SAT · IELTS obstreperousNoisy and difficult to control; stubbornly defiant and unruly.GRE · SAT obtainTo get or acquire something by effort.TOEFL · IELTS obtuseIn geometry, an angle measuring greater than 90 degrees but less than 180 degree…GRE · SAT obviateto avoid or prevent; to make unnecessaryGRE · SAT obviousEasily perceived or understoodTOEFL obviouslyIn a way that is easily perceived or understood; clearly.IELTS occludeblock passage throughGRE occurTo happen; to come to pass.TOEFL · IELTS oceanographyThe scientific study of the seaTOEFL octagonA polygon with eight sides and eight angles; a regular octagon has all sides and…GRE odiousextremely unpleasant; repulsive; detestableSAT oeuvreThe complete body of work produced by a writer, artist, or composer over their c…GRE officiousAsserting authority or interfering in a domineering way, especially in trivial m…GRE · SAT offseta compensating equivalentGRE offspringA person's child or children; the young of an animal.TOEFL · IELTS ogleto stare at in a lecherous manner; to observe rudelySAT olfactoryrelating to the sense of smellSAT ominousgiving the impression that something bad is going to happenSAT omitTo leave out or excludeTOEFL omnipotenthaving unlimited or very great power; all-powerfulSAT omniscientknowing everything; having complete knowledgeSAT onerousinvolving a great deal of effort and difficulty; oppressively burdensomeGRE · SAT ongoingContinuing; still in progress.IELTS onomatopoeiaThe formation of a word that phonetically imitates or suggests the sound it desc…GRE onusthe burden of doing something; responsibility or dutySAT opaquenot able to be seen through; not clearly understood or explainedGRE · SAT operationA mathematical process such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or divisio…GRE opinionA view or judgement formed about something, not necessarily based on fact.TOEFL · IELTS opportunista person who places expediency above principleGRE opportunityA set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something.IELTS opposing argumentA line of reasoning contradicting one's positionTOEFL oppositionResistance or conflict; the action of opposing.IELTS opprobriousExpressing scorn, harsh criticism, or abusive disapproval.GRE opprobriuma state of extreme dishonorGRE opticalRelating to sight, especially in terms of the action of light.IELTS opulenceGreat wealth or luxuriousness; lavish abundance.GRE opulentostentatiously rich and luxurious; lavishly abundantSAT orbitThe curved path of a celestial object around a star, planet, or moon.TOEFL · IELTS ordainto order officially; to confer holy orders on a priestSAT ordinalA number that indicates position or order in a sequence, such as first, second, …GRE organA part of an organism with a specific vital functionTOEFL organicRelating to carbon compounds; produced without synthetic chemicalsTOEFL organic farmingFarming without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetic modific…IELTS organismAn individual animal, plant, or single-celled life form.TOEFL · IELTS organizationThe way in which something is structuredTOEFL organizational cueA signal indicating the structure of a spoken or written textTOEFL organizeTo arrange things into a structured formTOEFL originThe fixed point (0, 0) in a coordinate system where the x-axis and y-axis inters…GRE · IELTS ornateElaborately or excessively decorated; marked by intricate detail.GRE · SAT orthodoxAdhering to established, traditional, or widely accepted beliefs or practices.GRE · SAT orthogonalRelating to or involving right angles; perpendicular, especially in reference to…GRE oscillatemove or swing from side to side regularlyGRE osmosisThe movement of water through a semipermeable membraneTOEFL ossifyto become rigid or fixed in attitude; to turn to boneSAT ostensibleAppearing to be true or real but not necessarily so; stated or seeming as oppose…GRE ostentatiousintended to attract notice and impress othersGRE · SAT oustto drive out or expel someone from a position of powerSAT outcomeThe way a situation ends or resultsTOEFL outlineTo give a summary of the main facts or points of something.TOEFL · IELTS outsourcingObtaining goods or services from an outside or foreign supplier.IELTS overallTaking everything into account; general; with respect to the whole.TOEFL · IELTS overcomeTo succeed in dealing with a problem or difficulty.IELTS overconsumptionThe purchase and use of resources beyond what is needed or sustainable.IELTS overfishingDepleting fish stocks by fishing too intensively.IELTS overlapTo cover part of the same area; to share characteristicsTOEFL overpopulationThe condition of having a population so dense as to cause environmental deterior…IELTS overtdone openly; not hidden or secretSAT overviewA general summary of the main pointsTOEFL overwhelmedCompletely overcome by an emotion, a task, or a situation.IELTS overwroughtin a state of nervous excitement or anxiety; excessively elaborateSAT oxidationA chemical reaction in which an atom loses electronsTOEFL oxygenA chemical element forming about 21% of the earth's atmosphere, essential for li…TOEFL · IELTS ozoneA form of oxygen found in the upper atmosphereTOEFL ozone layerA layer of ozone in the stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun's ultraviolet …IELTS

P

pacifyTo bring to a state of peace or calm; to appease or soothe.GRE painstakingDone with or employing great care, thoroughness, and attention to detail.GRE palatablepleasant to taste; acceptable or agreeable to the mindSAT palisadea fence of pointed wooden stakes; a defensive barrierSAT palliateTo make a disease or its symptoms less severe without curing it; to alleviate wi…GRE palliativerelieving symptoms without curing the cause; a remedy that improvesSAT pallidpale or ashen in appearance; lacking color or vitalitySAT palpableSo intense as to be almost able to be touched or felt; easily perceived or obvio…GRE · SAT panaceaa solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseasesSAT pandemicA disease prevalent throughout an entire country, continent, or the whole world.TOEFL · IELTS panegyricA formal public speech or written composition that lavishly praises someone or s…GRE parabolaA symmetrical open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane…GRE paradigmA typical example, model, or pattern of something; a framework of concepts and a…GRE · SAT paradoxa statement that seems self-contradictory but may be true; a dilemmaGRE · SAT paragona person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a qualityGRE · SAT paragraphA distinct section of writing dealing with one topicTOEFL paragraph developmentThe process of expanding a topic sentence with supporting detailsTOEFL paragraph structureThe internal organization of a paragraphTOEFL paragraph unityThe quality of a paragraph dealing with a single ideaTOEFL parallelOccurring at the same time and having similar propertiesTOEFL · IELTS parallel structureUsing the same grammatical form for items in a list or comparisonTOEFL parallelogramA four-sided plane figure (quadrilateral) whose opposite sides are parallel and …GRE parameterA limit or boundary which defines the scope of a process or activity.TOEFL · IELTS parametricRelating to or expressed in terms of a parameter, a variable that defines a syst…GRE paramountmore important than anything else; supreme in importanceSAT paraphraseTo express the meaning of something using different words, typically to simplify…TOEFL · IELTS parasiteAn organism that lives in or on a host organism and benefits at the host's expen…SAT · TOEFL · IELTS parcheddried out, especially by the sun; extremely thirstySAT pariaha person or animal that is generally despised or avoidedSAT paritythe state or condition of being equal, especially in status or paySAT parochialnarrow-minded; only concerned with local matters; provincialSAT parodyan imitation of a work for comic effect; a mockerySAT parryto ward off a weapon or blow; to evade a question skillfullySAT parsimoniousExcessively unwilling to spend money or use resources; extremely frugal or sting…GRE · SAT participateTo take part in an action or discussionTOEFL particleA minute portion of matter; a small piece or amount of something.IELTS particularUsed to single out an individual member of a specified group or class.IELTS partisana fervent and even militant proponent of somethingGRE parvenuA person who has suddenly acquired wealth or prominence but lacks the social gra…GRE passionAn intense desire or enthusiasm for something.IELTS passive constructionA sentence structure in which the subject receives the actionTOEFL passive voiceA grammatical construction where the subject is acted uponTOEFL pathosA quality that evokes feelings of pity, sympathy, or sorrow in the audience.GRE patienceThe capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without becoming…IELTS patinaA surface coating or appearance that develops on something over time, often sugg…GRE patoisA regional dialect or nonstandard form of a language, especially one with low so…GRE patronA person who gives financial or other support to a person, organization, or caus…GRE patternA regular and intelligible form or sequence discernible in data.TOEFL · IELTS peaceFreedom from disturbance; tranquillity; a state of harmony.IELTS peakThe highest point or greatest degree of something.IELTS pecuniaryRelating to or consisting of money; financial.GRE pedanticExcessively concerned with minor details or rules, especially in teaching or aca…GRE peer feedbackEvaluation of writing provided by another studentTOEFL peer reviewEvaluation of work by others in the same fieldTOEFL peer-reviewedEvaluated by experts in the same field before publicationTOEFL pejorativeExpressing contempt or disapproval; having a disparaging or derogatory connotati…GRE penchantA strong habitual liking or inclination for something.GRE peninsulaA piece of land almost surrounded by water or projecting out into a body of wate…IELTS penitentFeeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong; repentant.GRE pensionA regular payment made to a retired person from an investment fund.IELTS pension crisisA situation in which a pension system is unable to meet its future obligations.IELTS pentagonA plane figure with five straight sides and five angles; a regular pentagon has …GRE penuriousExtremely poor or unwilling to spend money; characterized by poverty or extreme …GRE perceiveTo become aware of through the senses or intellectTOEFL percentA ratio or fraction expressed as a portion of 100, denoted by the symbol %.GRE perceptionThe way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted.TOEFL · IELTS peregrinationA long journey, especially one undertaken on foot or through foreign lands.GRE perfidiousDeceitful and untrustworthy; deliberately faithless or treacherous.GRE perfunctoryCarried out with minimal effort or care, merely as a routine duty.GRE perimeterThe total length of the boundary of a two-dimensional shape.GRE periodicallyOccurring or appearing at intervals; regularly.IELTS peripheralRelating to or situated on the edge or outskirts; of secondary or minor importan…GRE permafrostA thick subsurface layer of soil that remains frozen throughout the year.IELTS permafrost thawThe melting of permanently frozen ground in cold regions.IELTS permutationAn arrangement of a set of items in a specific order, where the sequence matters…GRE perniciousHaving a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.GRE perpendicularAt an angle of 90 degrees to a given line, plane, or surface; intersecting at ri…GRE perquisiteA special benefit or privilege enjoyed in addition to regular income or compensa…GRE persistTo continue to exist despite oppositionTOEFL persistentContinuing firmly or obstinately; refusing to give up.IELTS personallyIn person; as regards oneself as an individual.IELTS perspectiveA particular way of regarding something; a point of viewTOEFL · IELTS persuadeTo cause someone to do something through reasoning or argument.TOEFL · IELTS persuasiveGood at convincing people through argumentTOEFL perturbedFeeling anxious, uneasy, or unsettled; disturbed.GRE pHA scale measuring acidity or alkalinityTOEFL phenomenonA fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen, especially one whose ca…TOEFL · IELTS phenomenon of interestThe specific event or behavior being studied in researchTOEFL philanthropyThe desire to promote the welfare of others; charitable giving.GRE · IELTS phlegmaticshowing little emotionGRE photonA particle of light or other electromagnetic radiationTOEFL photosynthesisThe process by which plants use sunlight, water, and CO2 to produce food.TOEFL · IELTS physicsThe branch of science concerned with matter, energy, and their interactionsTOEFL physiognomyA person's facial features or expression, especially as regarded as indicative o…GRE pigmentA substance giving color to tissues or cellsTOEFL piquantHaving a pleasantly sharp, stimulating taste or quality; engagingly provocative.GRE placatecause to be more favorably inclinedGRE placidCalm, peaceful, and free from disturbance; not easily upset or excited.GRE · SAT plagiarismthe practice of taking someone else's work and passing it off as one's ownSAT · TOEFL plaintiffa person who brings a case against another in a court of lawSAT planeA flat, two-dimensional surface that extends infinitely in all directions, defin…GRE planktonTiny organisms drifting in the sea that form the base of marine food chains.IELTS plasmaThe liquid component of blood; a state of matterTOEFL plasticcapable of being molded or modeledGRE plastic pollutionThe accumulation of plastic objects in the Earth's environment.IELTS plate tectonicsThe theory that Earth's crust is divided into moving platesTOEFL plateauAn area of relatively level high ground; a state of little or no change after pr…IELTS platitudeA remark or statement that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtf…GRE plauditan expression of praise or approval; enthusiastic applauseSAT plausibleSeeming reasonable or probable; appearing valid or acceptable.SAT · IELTS plethoraan excess or abundance of somethingGRE · SAT pliableflexible and easily bent; easily influencedSAT plumagethe feathers of a bird as a wholeSAT plumbTo examine or explore thoroughly in order to understand something deeply.GRE plummetto fall or drop suddenly and quickly; to plungeSAT podiuma small platform on which a person stands to address an audienceSAT poignantevoking a keen sense of sadness or regret; deeply movingSAT point of viewA particular attitude or perspective expressed in writingTOEFL poisedhaving a composed, graceful manner; ready and preparedSAT poissonA discrete probability distribution that expresses the probability of a given nu…GRE polarRelating to the North or South Pole; of opposite extremes.IELTS polarizeTo cause to divide into two contrasting groupsTOEFL polemicalInvolving or characterized by aggressive, controversial argument or critical att…GRE · SAT policyA course or principle of action adopted by a government, organisation, or indivi…IELTS political stabilityA state of governance in which the government is able to function effectively wi…IELTS pollinateTo transfer pollen to a plant so that it can fertilise and reproduce.IELTS pollinationThe transfer of pollen from stamens to the stigma of a plantTOEFL pollutionThe presence of harmful substances in the environment.IELTS polygonA closed plane figure bounded by three or more straight line segments.GRE polyhedronA three-dimensional solid figure with flat polygonal faces, straight edges, and …GRE polymerA large molecule made of repeating structural unitsTOEFL polynomialAn algebraic expression consisting of variables and coefficients combined using …GRE ponderousSlow and clumsy because of great weight; dull, laborious, or excessively solemn.GRE · SAT pontificateTo express opinions or judgments in a pompous, dogmatic, and self-important mann…GRE · SAT populationA group of organisms of the same species living in the same areaTOEFL population ageingA shift in the distribution of a country's population towards older ages.IELTS population densityThe number of people living per unit of area, usually per square kilometre.IELTS portendto be a sign or warning that something bad is going to happenSAT portenta sign or warning that something, especially something momentous, is likely to o…SAT poseura person who poses or pretends to be something they are notSAT positionA particular way of approaching a topic in an argumentTOEFL positiveA number greater than zero; in mathematics, belonging to the set of values on th…GRE · IELTS posterityall future generations of people; one's descendantsSAT posthumousoccurring, awarded, or appearing after the death of the originatorSAT postulateTo assume or claim as true, especially as a basis for reasoning or discussion; a…GRE · SAT potablewater or liquid that is suitable for drinking; drinkableSAT potenthaving great power, influence, or effect; strongSAT potentialHaving the capacity to develop into something in the future; latent ability.TOEFL · IELTS potential energyStored energy that an object has due to its positionTOEFL povertyThe state of being extremely poor; the state of being inferior in quality or ins…IELTS poverty trapA self-reinforcing mechanism which causes poverty to persist.IELTS practicalRelating to actual practice or use rather than ideas; sensible and realistic.IELTS pragmaticdealing with things sensibly and realistically; practicalGRE · SAT pragmatista person who is practical and results-focused rather than idealisticSAT prattleTo talk at length in a foolish, inconsequential, or childish way.GRE preamblean introductory statement or preface; preliminary remarksSAT precariousnot securely held; dependent on uncertain circumstancesSAT precedentan earlier event serving as a guide for future casesSAT preceptA general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought; a guiding principle.GRE · SAT precincta district of a city or town; an electoral districtSAT precipicea tall, very steep rock face; a situation of dangerSAT precipitateTo cause an event or situation to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely.GRE precipitationRain, snow, or hail; the formation of a solid from a solutionTOEFL precipitousDangerously steep; done suddenly and without careful consideration.GRE · SAT preciseMarked by exactness and accuracyTOEFL precisionThe quality of being exact and accurateTOEFL precludeto prevent from happening; to make impossibleSAT precociousHaving developed certain abilities or inclinations at an earlier age than is usu…GRE · SAT predatorAn animal that naturally preys on others; a person or organisation that exploits…TOEFL · IELTS predatorySeeking to exploit others; relating to an animal that naturally preys on others.IELTS predecessora person who previously held the same positionSAT predicamenta difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situationSAT predictTo say what will happen in the future based on evidenceTOEFL predilectionA preference or special liking for something; a bias in favor of something.GRE predisposedMade susceptible or inclined to something in advance; having a tendency toward.GRE predominantPresent or exerting control as the strongest or main elementTOEFL · IELTS preeminentsurpassing all others; most important; outstandingSAT preferenceA greater liking for one alternative over another; a choice.IELTS prehistoryThe period before written records; the events of this period.IELTS preliminaryPreceding and preparing for main work or findingsTOEFL premiseA previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows.TOEFL · IELTS prerogativeAn exclusive right or privilege belonging to a particular person or group.GRE · SAT presageTo be a sign or warning that something, typically bad, will happen; to foretell …GRE prescienthaving or showing knowledge of events before they occurSAT presentimentan intuitive feeling that something will happen, usually badSAT pressureThe use of persuasion, influence, or intimidation to make someone do something; …TOEFL · IELTS prestigeWidespread respect and admiration resulting from achievement, quality, or social…GRE presumptuousfailing to observe the limits of what is permitted; overconfidentSAT presupposeTo require as a prior condition; to assume beforehandTOEFL pretentiousattempting to impress by affecting greater importance than is realSAT prevalentWidespread in a particular area or at a particular time.IELTS prevaricateTo speak or act in an evasive, misleading way; to avoid giving a direct or truth…GRE · SAT preventableAble to be stopped from occurring or developing.IELTS preyAn animal hunted and killed by another for food; a victim.TOEFL · IELTS primarilyFor the most part; mainly; in the first place.IELTS primaryOf chief importance; the earliest or originalTOEFL primary sourceAn original document or firsthand accountTOEFL primeA natural number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and i…GRE primitiveRelating to an early stage of development; not sophisticated.IELTS primordialExisting at or from the beginning of time; ancient and fundamental.IELTS principal argumentThe most important claim in a textTOEFL principleA fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for reasoning.TOEFL · IELTS priorExisting or coming before in timeTOEFL prioritizeTo designate something as most importantTOEFL prioritySomething regarded as more important than other things; precedence in order.IELTS prismA three-dimensional solid with two congruent, parallel polygonal bases and recta…GRE pristinein its original condition; unspoiled and cleanSAT privacyThe state or condition of being free from observation or disturbance; freedom fr…IELTS privilegeA special right, advantage, or immunity granted to a particular person or group.IELTS proactiveCreating or controlling a situation by taking the initiative rather than respond…IELTS probabilityA measure of the likelihood that an event will occur, expressed as a number betw…GRE probeTo inquire closely into something; a tool for investigationTOEFL probityThe quality of having strong moral principles; complete honesty and uprightness.GRE problem-solutionAn organizational pattern presenting a problem and its resolutionTOEFL processA series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular end.TOEFL · IELTS process analysisA description of how something works or is done step by stepTOEFL process writingAn approach to writing that emphasizes planning, drafting, and revisingTOEFL proclivityA tendency or inclination to do something, especially something objectionable.GRE · SAT procrastinateto delay or postpone action; to put off doing somethingSAT prodigalSpending money or resources freely and recklessly; wastefully extravagant.GRE · SAT prodigiousRemarkably great in extent, size, or degree; impressively large or powerful.GRE · SAT productThe result obtained by multiplying two or more numbers or expressions together.GRE profanenot relating to religious matters; irreverentSAT profanityblasphemous or obscene language; swearingSAT profligateRecklessly extravagant or wasteful in the use of resources; shamelessly immoral.GRE profoundvery great or intense; showing deep understanding; far-reachingGRE · SAT · IELTS profunditydeep insight; great depth of knowledge or thoughtSAT progressForward or onward movement toward a destination or goal; development.IELTS prohibitiveSo high or burdensome as to prevent or discourage purchase, use, or action.GRE prokaryoteA single-celled organism without a distinct nucleusTOEFL proletarianof or relating to the working class; a member of the working classSAT proliferateTo increase rapidly in number; to multiply or spread at a fast rate.GRE prolificproducing many works, results, or offspring; highly productiveSAT prolixityThe use of an excessive number of words; tedious long-windedness in speech or wr…GRE promulgateTo make widely known; to put a law or decree into effect by official proclamatio…GRE proofreadingThe process of checking for errors before submissionTOEFL propagandaInformation, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a cause or politic…IELTS propagateTo breed or spread by natural processes; to promote an idea widely.IELTS propensityAn innate inclination or tendency to behave in a particular way.GRE propertyA characteristic or attribute of a mathematical object, such as the commutative,…GRE proponentA person who advocates for or supports a theory, proposal, or course of action.GRE proportionAn equation stating that two ratios are equal; a relationship between quantities…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS proposeTo put forward an idea or plan for consideration or discussion.TOEFL · IELTS proprietaryRelating to ownership; held or restricted as the property of an individual or or…GRE proprietyConformity to conventionally accepted standards of behavior or morals; the state…GRE prosaicLacking poetic beauty or imagination; dull, mundane, and commonplace.GRE proteinA class of nitrogenous organic compounds essential to living organisms.TOEFL · IELTS protein synthesisThe process by which cells produce proteinsTOEFL protonA positively charged subatomic particle in the nucleusTOEFL protractedLasting for a long time or longer than expected; prolonged.GRE proveTo demonstrate the truth or existence of something by evidence or argument.IELTS provideTo make available for use; to supply.IELTS providentMaking provision for future needs; prudent and thrifty.GRE provincialNarrow in scope or outlook; unsophisticated, especially in cultural matters.GRE prudenceThe quality of acting with care and thought for the future; cautious practical w…GRE prudentActing with or showing care and thought for the future; exercising good judgment…GRE public healthThe branch of medicine concerned with protecting the health of a whole community…IELTS public policyThe principles and regulations established by government to address matters of p…IELTS public transportBuses, trains, and other forms of transport that are available to the public and…IELTS pugnaciousEager or quick to argue, quarrel, or fight; combative in nature.GRE purposeThe intended result or aim of a piece of writing or speechTOEFL purpose statementA sentence declaring the goal of a piece of writingTOEFL purposefulHaving or showing determination or resolve; having a clear aim.IELTS pursueTo continue or proceed with somethingTOEFL pusillanimousShowing a lack of courage or determination; timid and cowardly.GRE pythagoreanRelating to the Pythagorean theorem, which states that in a right triangle, the …GRE

Q

quadraticInvolving the second power (square) of a variable; a quadratic equation has the …GRE quadrilateralA polygon with four sides and four angles; examples include squares, rectangles,…GRE quagmireA difficult, precarious, or complex situation from which it is hard to extricate…GRE qualifiedLimited or restricted in meaning; not absolute; modified by conditions or except…GRE qualifyTo limit or modify a statement to reduce its forceTOEFL qualitativeRelating to quality rather than quantityTOEFL qualitative dataNon-numerical information collected in researchTOEFL quantifyTo express or measure the quantity of something.IELTS quantitativeRelating to quantity rather than qualityTOEFL quartA unit of liquid capacity equal to one-fourth of a gallon or two pints (approxim…GRE quarterOne of four equal parts into which something is divided; one-fourth (1/4 or 25%)…GRE quaternionA number system that extends complex numbers, consisting of four components (one…GRE querulousHabitually complaining in a whining or petulant manner.GRE queryA question or inquiry, especially one expressing doubt or requesting information…GRE questionA sentence or inquiry seeking informationTOEFL quirka peculiar or unexpected trait or characteristic; an odd mannerismSAT quixoticExceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical, especially in the pursuit o…GRE quotationA phrase repeated from a sourceTOEFL quotientThe result obtained by dividing one number by another.GRE

R

raconteurA person who tells anecdotes and stories in a skillful and entertaining way.GRE radiationEnergy emitted as waves or particles through space or a mediumTOEFL radioactiveEmitting or relating to the emission of radiation from the nucleus of an atom.TOEFL · IELTS rancorBitter, deep-seated resentment or ill will; lasting hostility.GRE rancorousCharacterized by bitterness, deep-seated ill will, or resentment.GRE rangeThe difference between the largest and smallest values in a data set; also, the …GRE · TOEFL · IELTS rapaciousAggressively greedy or grasping; given to seizing what is desired.GRE rarefiedBelonging to or appealing to a select, elevated, or exclusive group; esoteric.GRE rateA measure of one quantity expressed in relation to another; the speed of change.IELTS ratioA quantitative relation between two amounts showing the number of times one valu…GRE rationalA number that can be expressed as the quotient of two integers, where the denomi…GRE rationaleA set of reasons or a logical basis for a decisionTOEFL raucousMaking or constituting a disturbingly harsh, loud, and unpleasant noise.GRE reactionA process in which substances are changed into different substancesTOEFL readabilityThe ease with which a text can be read and understoodTOEFL realiseTo become fully aware of something; to bring something desired into reality.IELTS reasonA cause, explanation, or justification for an action or event.IELTS reasonableHaving sound judgement; fair and sensible.IELTS reasoningThe process of forming conclusions from evidenceTOEFL rebuffTo reject or refuse bluntly or ungraciously; a blunt or abrupt refusal.GRE rebukeTo express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone because of their behavior.GRE rebusA puzzle in which words or phrases are represented by combinations of pictures, …GRE recalcitrantStubbornly resistant to authority, control, or guidance; uncooperative.GRE recallTo bring a fact or event back to mindTOEFL recantTo formally withdraw or disavow a previously held belief or statement.GRE recapitulateTo summarize and restate the main points of an argument or discussion.GRE recessive geneA gene expressed only when two copies are presentTOEFL recidivismThe tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend; a relapse into previous undesi…GRE reciprocalThe multiplicative inverse of a number; for any nonzero number a, its reciprocal…GRE reckonto think or suppose; to calculate or countSAT recluseA person who lives a solitary life and tends to avoid the company of others.GRE recogniseTo acknowledge the existence, validity, or legality of something.IELTS recognizeTo identify from past experience or knowledgeTOEFL reconditeLittle known or understood; dealing with subject matter that is abstruse or obsc…GRE recordTo set down for future referenceTOEFL rectifyTo put right; to correct an error, fault, or undesirable situation.GRE recurTo occur again periodically or repeatedlyTOEFL recycleTo convert waste into reusable material.TOEFL · IELTS recycling schemeAn organised programme for collecting and reprocessing used materials.IELTS redolentStrongly reminiscent or suggestive of something; having a rich, pleasant smell.GRE redoubtableFormidable, especially as an opponent; commanding respect or fear.GRE redundantNo longer needed or useful; containing more words or data than necessary to conv…GRE reference listA list of all sources cited in a textTOEFL referencingThe practice of citing sources used in a textTOEFL referentialPointing to or referring to something outside the textTOEFL refineTo improve by making small changesTOEFL reflectTo think deeply or carefully about something; to be a sign or consequence of.TOEFL · IELTS reflexAn automatic response to a stimulusTOEFL reforestationThe restocking of existing forests and woodlands that have been depleted.IELTS reformTo make changes in order to improve something; a change made for improvement.TOEFL · IELTS refractionThe bending of light as it passes through a different mediumTOEFL refractoryStubbornly resistant to authority or control; difficult to manage or treat.GRE refugeeA person who has been forced to leave their country to escape war, persecution, …IELTS refutationThe action of proving a statement falseTOEFL refuteTo prove a statement or theory to be wrong or false; to deny or contradict.TOEFL · IELTS regaleTo entertain or delight someone with conversation, stories, or good food and dri…GRE regardlessWithout paying attention to the present situation; despite the prevailing circum…IELTS regenerateTo bring new and more vigorous life to an area or institution; to grow again.IELTS regenerative agricultureFarming practices that restore soil health, increase biodiversity, and capture c…IELTS registerThe level of formality appropriate for a situationTOEFL regressionA statistical method for modeling the relationship between a dependent variable …GRE regulateTo control or maintain the rate or speed of a machine; to control by law or rule…IELTS reinforceTo strengthen or support, especially with additional material or people.TOEFL · IELTS relateTo make a connection between two thingsTOEFL relationshipThe way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected.TOEFL · IELTS relevanceThe quality of being closely connected to the subjectTOEFL relevantClosely connected or appropriate to what is being done or considered.TOEFL · IELTS reliableConsistently good in quality; can be trustedTOEFL relianceDependence on or trust in someone or something.IELTS remainderThe amount left over after division when one integer does not divide evenly into…GRE remarkableWorthy of attention; striking or extraordinary.IELTS remonstrateTo make a forceful, reasoned protest or objection against something.GRE remoteSituated far from the main centres of population; unlikely; having no connection…IELTS remunerationpayment made for work or services rendered; compensationSAT renewableAble to be replenished naturally and therefore sustainable over the long term.TOEFL · IELTS renewable energyEnergy from naturally replenished sourcesTOEFL renewable resourcesNatural resources that are replenished naturally over time.IELTS renownthe condition of being known by many people; fameSAT repertoireThe complete range of skills, techniques, or works that a person or group is pre…GRE repetitionThe action of repeating something that has already been saidTOEFL replenishTo fill or build up something again; to restore to a former level or condition.GRE repletefilled to the point of being stuffed; thoroughly suppliedSAT replicationThe process of repeating an experiment to verify resultsTOEFL report writingThe skill of producing a formal document describing findingsTOEFL reprehensibledeserving of censure or condemnation; morally wrongSAT representTo stand for or be a symbol of; to act on behalf ofTOEFL reprieveA temporary relief or postponement of punishment, suffering, or an unpleasant ob…GRE · SAT reproachTo express disapproval of or disappointment in someone; to censure or rebuke.GRE reprobateAn unprincipled or morally depraved person; one without moral scruples.GRE reproduceTo produce again; to produce offspring by a natural process of generation.IELTS reproductionThe process by which organisms produce offspringTOEFL repudiateTo refuse to accept, acknowledge, or be associated with; to reject as invalid or…GRE · SAT requireTo need or depend on something for a purpose; to make something necessary.TOEFL · IELTS rescindTo revoke, cancel, or repeal a law, order, or agreement.GRE · SAT researchThe systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources.TOEFL · IELTS research questionA focused question guiding a research studyTOEFL resignationthe acceptance of something undesirable but inevitableSAT resilienceThe capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; the ability of a substance to…IELTS resilient communityA community that can withstand and recover from natural or human-made disasters.IELTS resoluteAdmirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering in pursuit of a goal.GRE resolutionA firm decision to do or not do something; the quality of being determined or re…GRE · SAT · TOEFL resolveTo settle or find a solution to a problem or dispute.IELTS resolvedFirmly determined to do something; having made a definite decision.GRE resonantHaving the quality of resounding or evoking strong images, memories, or emotions…GRE · SAT resourcefulAble to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.IELTS respirationThe process by which organisms release energy from foodTOEFL respitea short period of rest or relief from something difficultSAT resplendentattractive and impressive through being richly colorfulSAT respondTo say or act in reply to somethingTOEFL responseA verbal or written answer; a reaction to a stimulus.IELTS responsibilityThe state of having a duty to deal with something or of having control over some…IELTS restateTo say something again in different wordsTOEFL restiveUnable to remain still, silent, or submissive, especially because of boredom or …GRE restorativehaving the ability to restore health, strength, or well-beingSAT restrictTo put a limit on; to keep under control.TOEFL · IELTS retainTo continue to have or to keep possession of something.TOEFL · IELTS retentionthe continued possession or maintenance of somethingSAT reticentNot revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily; reserved and uncommunicative.GRE · SAT retractionthe withdrawal of a statement or claimSAT revealTo make previously unknown or secret information known.TOEFL · IELTS revereto feel deep respect or admiration for something or someone; to venerateGRE · SAT reviewA formal assessment; to look back overTOEFL review articleA scholarly article summarizing existing research on a topicTOEFL reviseTo change and improve a piece of writingTOEFL revisionThe process of improving a written draftTOEFL revolutionA forcible overthrow of a government; a dramatic or wide-reaching change.IELTS rewardingProviding satisfaction; worthwhile.IELTS rhetoricThe art of effective or persuasive speaking or writingTOEFL rhetorical questionA question asked for effect rather than to get an answerTOEFL rhombusA parallelogram with four equal sides, where opposite angles are equal.GRE ribosomeA cell organelle that synthesizes proteinsTOEFL riddledfilled or permeated with something undesirableSAT riemannRelating to Bernhard Riemann's mathematical work, especially the Riemann sum use…GRE rifefull of something undesirable; widespreadSAT rigidUnable to be changed; strict; not flexible.IELTS rigorthe quality of being extremely thorough and careful; strict conditionsSAT ritualA series of actions performed according to a prescribed order; a religious cerem…IELTS robotA machine capable of carrying out tasks automatically, often resembling a human …IELTS robuststrong and healthy; not easily damaged or changed; vigorousSAT roleThe function assumed by or assigned to a person or thing in a particular situati…IELTS rootA value that, when substituted into an equation, makes it true; equivalently, a …GRE rotundplump and round; having a full, rich soundSAT routineA sequence of actions regularly followed; a fixed, unvarying way of doing things…IELTS rubricA set of established rules, guidelines, or criteria used for assessment or class…GRE rudimentaryRelating to the most basic or fundamental level; undeveloped or elementary.GRE rueTo feel regret or sorrow for something done or left undone.GRE ruminateto think deeply and at length about something; to ponderSAT ruralIn, relating to, or characteristic of the countryside rather than the town.IELTS rural-urban migrationThe movement of people from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunit…IELTS rusean action intended to deceive someone; a clever trick or stratagemSAT

S

saccharinan artificial sweetener; excessively sentimental or sweetSAT sacrificeAn act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else.IELTS sacrosanctRegarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with; inviolable.GRE · SAT sagaciousHaving or showing keen discernment, sound judgment, and farsightedness.GRE · SAT sageA person of profound wisdom and judgment, especially one revered for experience …GRE · SAT salacioushaving or conveying undue interest in sexual mattersSAT sallowof a sickly yellowish complexionSAT salubriousConducive to health or well-being; wholesome.GRE · SAT salutaryproducing good effects; beneficial; teaching a lessonSAT sanctimoniousMaking a hypocritical show of religious devotion or moral superiority.GRE · SAT sanctionTo give official permission or approval; also, a penalty imposed for violating a…GRE · SAT sanguinarybloodthirsty; involving much bloodshedSAT sanguineOptimistic or positive, especially in a difficult situation.GRE · SAT sanitationConditions relating to public health, especially the provision of clean water an…IELTS sardonicgrimly mocking or cynical; scornfully derisiveSAT sartorialRelating to tailoring, clothing, or style of dress.GRE satiateTo satisfy a desire or appetite fully, often to the point of excess.GRE satisfyTo meet the expectations, needs, or desires of someone.IELTS saturnineHaving a gloomy, morose, or sullen temperament.GRE savanta person of learning or deep knowledge in one areaSAT scaleto climb up or over; to adjust according to a scaleSAT scaleneA triangle in which all three sides have different lengths and all three angles …GRE scapegoata person blamed for the mistakes of othersSAT scenarioA postulated sequence or development of events; a situation.IELTS scholarshipA grant made to support a student's education; academic study or achievement.IELTS scopeThe extent of the area or subject matter that something deals with.TOEFL · IELTS scrupulousdiligent, thorough, and extremely attentive to doing what is rightSAT scrutinizeto examine or inspect someone or something closely and thoroughlySAT scuttleto sink one's own ship deliberately; to run hurriedly; to ruinSAT sea level riseThe increase in sea levels due to the melting of polar ice and thermal expansion…IELTS secondary sourceA source interpreting or analyzing a primary sourceTOEFL secreteTo produce and discharge a substance from a cell or gland; also, to conceal in a…GRE sectorA region of a circle enclosed by two radii and the arc between them.GRE · IELTS sedentaryTending to spend much time seated; involving little physical activity.IELTS sedimentMatter that settles to the bottom of a liquid; material deposited by water or wi…TOEFL · IELTS sedimentary rockRock formed from compressed sediment layersTOEFL segmentA part of a line bounded by two endpoints; also, a region of a circle cut off by…GRE seismicOf enormous proportions or effect; relating to a sudden and dramatic upheaval.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS selectiveCareful in choosing; favouring only certain thingsTOEFL semblanceThe outward appearance or apparent form of something, especially when the realit…GRE semicolonA punctuation mark used to link closely related clausesTOEFL seminaryan institution for training priests; a place of educationSAT sensuousrelating to or affecting the senses; appealing aestheticallySAT sentence structureThe way words and clauses are arranged in a sentenceTOEFL sentence varietyThe use of different sentence lengths and structuresTOEFL sentimentA view or opinion held or expressed; also, a feeling or emotion evoked by someth…GRE sentinela soldier or guard whose job is to stand and keep watchSAT sequenceAn ordered list of numbers following a specific pattern or rule, where each elem…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS sequentialArranged or occurring in a specific order, where each element follows logically …GRE sequesterto isolate or keep away from others; to remove from circulationSAT serendipitythe occurrence of events by chance in a happy waySAT serenecalm, peaceful, and untroubled; tranquilSAT seriesThe sum of the terms of a sequence, either finite or infinite.GRE seriousDemanding or characterised by careful consideration; grave or significant.IELTS serratedhaving a jagged edge like a sawSAT servileExcessively willing to serve or please others; showing a lack of independence or…GRE · SAT settlementA place where people establish a community; the action of settling in a place.IELTS shapeA geometric figure defined by its boundary, such as a circle, triangle, or polyg…GRE shiftA slight change in position, direction, or tendency.IELTS signalAn action or event that sends a messageTOEFL signal wordA word that indicates the structure of an argumentTOEFL significantSufficiently great or important to be worthy of attention; noteworthy.TOEFL · IELTS significantlyIn a sufficiently great or important manner; notably.IELTS signpost languageLanguage that tells readers what is coming or has just been saidTOEFL signpostingUsing language to guide the reader through a textTOEFL simplifyTo reduce a mathematical expression to its most basic or compact form without ch…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS simulateTo imitate the appearance or character of somethingTOEFL sineA trigonometric function equal to the ratio of the side opposite a given angle t…GRE sinecureA position or office that requires little or no work but provides a salary or in…GRE singularExceptionally remarkable or outstanding; beyond what is ordinary.GRE skepticA person inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions and claims.GRE skepticalnot easily convinced; having doubts or reservations; questioningSAT skilledHaving or showing the knowledge, ability, or training to perform a certain activ…IELTS skirmishan episode of irregular or unpremeditated fighting; a minor confrontationSAT sluggarda habitually lazy person; a slow-moving personSAT slumA squalid and overcrowded urban district inhabited by very poor people.IELTS smart cityAn urban area that uses technology to enhance performance, wellbeing, and sustai…IELTS sobrietyThe quality of being serious, sensible, and solemn; also, the state of being sob…GRE sociableWilling to talk and engage in activities with other people; friendly.IELTS social capitalThe networks of relationships among people in a society that enable it to functi…IELTS social entrepreneurA person who builds businesses or organisations that aim to address social probl…IELTS social inequalityUnequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and rewards among different gr…IELTS social mediaWebsites and applications that enable users to create and share content and netw…IELTS social mobilityThe movement of individuals or groups within a social hierarchy.IELTS soil degradationThe physical, chemical, and biological deterioration of soil quality.IELTS solarRelating to or determined by the sun.IELTS solar energyRadiant energy emitted by the sun and converted into electricity.IELTS solar panelA panel designed to absorb the sun's rays as a source of energy for generating e…IELTS solar systemThe Sun and all celestial bodies orbiting itTOEFL solicitorA person who seeks to obtain something, such as business or contributions; in la…GRE solicitousShowing attentive care or concern; anxiously eager to help or please.GRE soliloquyAn act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when alone, especially in a dramatic per…GRE solubleAble to be dissolved, especially in water.IELTS soluteA substance dissolved in a solutionTOEFL solutionA value or set of values that satisfies a given equation or system of equations.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS solventHaving sufficient funds or assets to pay all debts; financially sound.GRE sophisticatedComplex and refined in styleTOEFL soporificTending to induce drowsiness or sleep; extremely dull or boring.GRE sourceA place, person, or thing from which something originates or is obtained.TOEFL · IELTS source evaluationAssessing the quality and reliability of a referenceTOEFL source integrationThe technique of incorporating outside material into one's writingTOEFL sovereignPossessing supreme power or authority; independent of outside control.GRE speciesA group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of interbr…TOEFL · IELTS species diversityThe number of different species represented in a given habitat or region.IELTS species extinctionThe permanent elimination of a species from the natural world.IELTS specificClearly defined or identified; precise and exact.TOEFL · IELTS specificityThe quality of being clear and specificTOEFL specifyTo identify clearly and definitelyTOEFL speciousSuperficially plausible but actually wrong or misleading.GRE spectrumA range of values or wavelengthsTOEFL speculateTo form a theory or conjecture about a subject without firm evidence.TOEFL · IELTS spell outTo explain something clearly and in detailTOEFL spoken discourseLanguage used in spoken communicationTOEFL spontaneousPerformed or occurring as a result of a sudden impulse, without premeditation or…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS spuriousNot genuine, authentic, or true; based on false reasoning or information.GRE stableNot likely to change or fail; firmly established.IELTS stagnationThe state of not flowing or moving; lack of activity, growth, or development.GRE stanceAn attitude or position taken on an issueTOEFL stateA nation or territory considered as an organised political community; to express…IELTS static electricityElectric charge built up on a surfaceTOEFL statistical significanceThe probability that a result did not occur by chanceTOEFL statusThe relative social, professional, or other standing of someone or something.IELTS stentorianExtremely loud and powerful in sound.GRE stimulusA thing or event that evokes a specific functional reaction; something that caus…TOEFL · IELTS stochasticRandomly determined; involving a process in which outcomes are described by a pr…GRE stoicA person who endures pain or hardship without showing emotion or complaint.GRE strategicDone according to a plan designed to achieve a goalTOEFL strategyA plan of action designed to achieve a long-term goal.TOEFL · IELTS stratifiedArranged or classified into distinct layers, levels, or social strata.GRE stratifyTo arrange in layers or strata; to sort by categoriesTOEFL strengthenTo make an argument more convincingTOEFL stressEmphasis given to a syllable or word; pressure or worryTOEFL stressfulCausing mental or emotional stress.IELTS striateMarked with parallel grooves, ridges, or streaks.GRE stridentLoud, harsh, and grating in sound or manner; aggressively forceful.GRE structuralRelating to the way something is organizedTOEFL structureThe arrangement of and relations between the parts of something complex.TOEFL · IELTS struggleTo make forceful or violent efforts to get free; to have difficulty with somethi…IELTS styleThe manner of writing that distinguishes an authorTOEFL subatomicSmaller than or occurring within an atomTOEFL subheadingA title given to a subsection of a documentTOEFL subjectA person or thing being studied; a branch of knowledgeTOEFL sublimationThe transition from solid directly to gasTOEFL subordinate clauseA clause dependent on the main clause for its meaningTOEFL subordinating conjunctionA word introducing a dependent clauseTOEFL subordinationThe use of a clause to express a secondary idea in a sentenceTOEFL subsequentComing after or following in time or order.TOEFL · IELTS subsideTo become less intense, violent, or severe; to diminish gradually.GRE subsidyA sum of money granted by the state or a public body to assist an industry or se…IELTS subsistence farmingFarming that provides only enough food for the farmer and their family.IELTS substantialOf considerable importance, size, or worth.IELTS substantiateTo provide evidence or proof to support a claim or assertion.GRE substantiveHaving a firm basis in reality; meaningful, important, and worthy of considerati…GRE subterfugeDeceit or trickery used to achieve one's goal.GRE subtleSo delicate or precise as to be difficult to detect or describe; making use of c…GRE subtractionThe arithmetic operation of finding the difference between two numbers by removi…GRE subtropicalRelating to regions adjacent to the tropics; having a hot, humid climate.IELTS suburbAn outlying district of a city, especially a residential one.IELTS succorAssistance and support given to someone in difficulty or distress.GRE sufficientEnough; adequate for the purpose.TOEFL · IELTS suffrageThe right to vote in political elections.GRE suggestTo put forward for consideration; to make evident indirectly.IELTS summariseTo give a brief statement of the main points of something.IELTS summarizeTo give a brief statement of the main pointsTOEFL superciliousBehaving or looking as though one thinks one is superior to others; disdainfully…GRE superfluousExceeding what is sufficient or necessary; more than what is needed.GRE supineLying face upward; also, failing to act or protest as a result of moral weakness…GRE supplementSomething added to complete or strengthen something elseTOEFL supply chainA network of organisations involved in producing and delivering a product to con…IELTS supportTo give assistance to; to corroborate or back up.TOEFL · IELTS suppressTo prevent from being known or felt; to inhibitTOEFL surfaceThe two-dimensional boundary of a three-dimensional object; the total area of al…GRE surface tensionThe cohesive force acting at the surface of a liquidTOEFL surfeitAn excessive amount of something; overindulgence.GRE surreptitiousKept secret because it would not be approved of; done stealthily.GRE surveillanceClose observation, especially of a suspected person; monitoring by camera or tec…IELTS surveyA broad investigation or overviewTOEFL sustainTo keep something going over timeTOEFL sustainabilityThe ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting resour…IELTS sustainableAble to be maintained at a certain rate or level without exhausting natural reso…TOEFL · IELTS sycophantA person who flatters someone important in order to gain advantage.GRE symbiosisA close interaction between two different organismsTOEFL symbioticInvolving or characterised by a mutually beneficial relationship.IELTS symmetryA property of a figure or object whereby it is invariant under a transformation …GRE synthesisThe combination of elements to form a connected whole.IELTS synthesizeTo combine elements to form a new wholeTOEFL

T

tacitunderstood or implied without being stated directly; silentGRE · SAT taciturnReserved or uncommunicative in speech; saying little.GRE talismanAn object thought to have magic powers and to bring good luck.GRE · SAT tangentA straight line that touches a curve at exactly one point without crossing it; a…GRE · SAT tangentialOnly marginally related to the matter at hand; diverging from the main point.GRE tangibleperceptible by touch; clear and definite; realSAT tantamountEquivalent in seriousness, effect, or value.GRE tardydelaying or delayed beyond the expected time; lateSAT tautologyThe saying of the same thing twice in different words, generally considered a fa…GRE tawdryShowy but cheap and of poor quality; morally low or distasteful.GRE · SAT taxA compulsory contribution to state revenue levied on income, property, or goods.IELTS taxonomyThe branch of science concerned with classification of organismsTOEFL techniqueA specific way of doing something skillfullyTOEFL technology gapThe difference in technological development between developed and developing nat…IELTS technology transferThe process of sharing skills, knowledge, and technologies between entities.IELTS tectonicRelating to the structure of the Earth's crustTOEFL tediumthe state of being tedious; boredom caused by repetitivenessSAT temerityExcessive confidence or boldness; audacity or reckless daring.GRE temperto moderate or soften; to bring to a desired consistencySAT temperanceModeration or self-restraint, especially in eating and drinking.GRE temperateRelating to a region with mild temperatures; moderate in behaviour.IELTS temperatureThe degree of heat present in a substance or bodyTOEFL tenaciousHolding firmly to something; persistent and determined.GRE · SAT tendencyAn inclination toward a particular characteristic or type of behaviour.IELTS tensionA state of mental or emotional strain; a strained relationship between opposing …IELTS tentativenot certain or fixed; provisional; done hesitantlySAT tentativenessThe quality of being cautious or hesitant about a claimTOEFL tenuousVery weak, slight, or insubstantial; lacking a sound basis.GRE · SAT terrainA stretch of land, especially with regard to its physical features.IELTS terrestrialOf or relating to the earth or its inhabitants; living on or in the ground.GRE tersesparing in the use of words; brief and abruptSAT tessellationA pattern of shapes that fit together without any gaps or overlaps to cover a pl…GRE text typeA category of writing defined by its purpose and structureTOEFL textual evidenceEvidence drawn directly from a written sourceTOEFL thematicRelating to or based on a theme or themesTOEFL theocracyA system of government in which priests or religious leaders rule in the name of…GRE theoremA mathematical statement that has been proven true through logical deduction fro…GRE theoretical frameworkA structure of concepts and assumptions guiding researchTOEFL theoryA supposition or system of ideas intended to explain something.TOEFL · IELTS therapeuticrelating to the healing of disease; having a good effect on healthSAT thermalRelating to heat; designed to provide insulation against cold.TOEFL · IELTS thesisA statement expressing the central argument of a piece of writingTOEFL thesis statementA sentence expressing the central argument of an essayTOEFL thoroughlyIn a detailed and careful wayTOEFL thresholdA level or point at which something begins or changes.IELTS thwartto prevent someone from accomplishing something; to frustrateSAT tidalRelating to or affected by tides.TOEFL · IELTS timorousshowing fear and nervousness; lacking in courageSAT tiradeA long, angry, and vehement speech of censure or denunciation.GRE · SAT tissueA group of cells with a similar structure performing a specific functionTOEFL titterto laugh quietly in a nervous way; a quiet laughSAT toadyA person who flatters and defers to others in a servile way for personal gain.GRE toleranceThe ability or willingness to tolerate the existence of opinions or behaviour on…IELTS tomea large, heavy book, especially one containing serious scholarshipSAT toneThe writer's attitude as expressed through word choiceTOEFL top-down processingUnderstanding text by drawing on prior knowledge and contextTOEFL topicThe subject of a piece of writing or discussionTOEFL topic developmentThe process of expanding the central idea of a paragraphTOEFL topic sentenceA sentence stating the main idea of a paragraphTOEFL topologyThe branch of mathematics concerned with properties of space that are preserved …GRE torpidmentally or physically inactive; lethargic and sluggishSAT torporphysical or mental inactivity; lethargy; numbnessSAT tortuousFull of twists, turns, and complexity; excessively lengthy and indirect.GRE totterto move in a feeble, unsteady way; to be unsteadySAT toxicPoisonous; relating to or caused by a poison.IELTS toxic wastePoisonous material produced by industrial or other human activity.IELTS toxinA poisonous substance produced by a living organismTOEFL traceTo find or discover by investigation; to follow the course ofTOEFL · IELTS tractableEasy to control, manage, or deal with; responsive to guidance.GRE · SAT tradeThe action of buying and selling goods and services; commerce.IELTS traditionA long-established custom or belief passed on from generation to generation.IELTS tranquilfree from disturbance; calm and peacefulSAT transcendTo go beyond the range or limits of something; to surpass.GRE transcribeto put thoughts, speech, or data into written formSAT transformTo change in form, character, or conditionTOEFL transformationA function that maps a geometric figure to a new position, size, or orientation,…GRE · IELTS transgressto go beyond the limits set by a law or moral principle; to sinSAT transientlasting only for a short time; staying only briefly; temporaryGRE · SAT transitionThe process or a period of changing from one state to another.TOEFL · IELTS transition wordA word or phrase that connects ideas between sentencesTOEFL transmitTo send or pass something from one place to anotherTOEFL transparencyThe condition of being transparent; openness and accountability in decision-maki…IELTS transpirationThe process by which plants release water vapor through leavesTOEFL transversalA line that intersects two or more other lines at distinct points.GRE trapezoidA quadrilateral with exactly one pair of parallel sides, called the bases.GRE travailPainful or laborious effort; a state of hardship and suffering.GRE traverseto travel across or through; to move back and forthSAT travestyA false, absurd, or distorted representation of something.GRE treatiseA formal and systematic written work dealing in depth with a particular subject.GRE trendA general direction in which something is developing or changing.TOEFL · IELTS trepidationa feeling of fear or agitation about something that may happenGRE · SAT triggerTo cause a device to function; to be the cause of something undesirable.IELTS trinketa small ornament or piece of jewelry of little valueSAT triteoverused and consequently of little value or originality; clichédSAT trivialof little value or importance; unimportantSAT trophic levelA position in a food chainTOEFL tropicalRelating to or characteristic of the tropics; very hot and humid.IELTS truanta student who stays away from school without permissionSAT truculentEager or quick to argue or fight; aggressively defiant.GRE truncateto shorten by cutting off the top, end, or part of somethingSAT tuitionTeaching or instruction, especially privately or in small groups; fees for educa…IELTS tumulta loud, confused noise; a state of confusion or disorderSAT turbineA machine in which energy is produced by the rotation of a wheel driven by water…TOEFL · IELTS turbulenceA state of violent disturbance, disorder, or commotion.GRE turgidSwollen, distended, or bloated; of language, pompously bombastic or dull.GRE turpitudewickedness and moral corruption; depravitySAT typicalHaving the distinctive qualities of a particular type of person or thing; usual.IELTS tyroa beginner or novice in any fieldSAT

U

ubiquitouspresent, appearing, or found everywhere; omnipresentSAT ultimatelyIn the end; at the most basic levelTOEFL · IELTS ultravioletElectromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than visible light but longe…TOEFL · IELTS unalloyednot mixed with anything else; pure; completeSAT unambiguousLeaving no doubt about meaningTOEFL uncertainNot able to be relied on; not known or definite.IELTS unconscionableNot right or reasonable; shockingly unfair or unjust.GRE unctuousExcessively flattering or ingratiating; oily in manner.GRE · SAT underlyingLying under or beneath something; significant but not stated directly.TOEFL · IELTS undermineTo lessen the effectiveness, power, or ability of something, especially graduall…TOEFL · IELTS underminedweakened or damaged gradually and secretlySAT underscoreto emphasize; to underlineSAT understandTo comprehend the meaning of somethingTOEFL unemploymentThe state of being without paid employment.IELTS unequivocalleaving no doubt; not ambiguous; perfectly clearSAT unfetterto release from chains or restraint; to set freeSAT unfrockto remove a priest or minister from their position and rightsSAT uniformNot changing in form or character; remaining the same in all cases.GRE · TOEFL · IELTS uniqueUnlike anything else; particular to one person or thingTOEFL · IELTS unityThe quality of forming a coherent and consistent wholeTOEFL unkemptuntidy or disheveled in appearance; not well groomedSAT unnecessaryNot needed; more than is needed or appropriate.IELTS unprecedentednever having happened or existed beforeSAT unscathedwithout suffering any injury, damage, or harmSAT unwittingnot aware of the full facts; unintentionalSAT upbraidto find fault with or criticize someone sharply; to scoldSAT upbringingThe treatment and instruction received during childhood.IELTS uproariousprovoking loud laughter; very funny; very noisySAT upshotthe final or eventual outcome of a series of eventsSAT urbanIn, relating to, or characteristic of a city or town.IELTS urban planningThe technical and political process of designing land use and the built environm…IELTS urbanecourteous and refined in manner; sophisticatedSAT urbanisationThe process by which towns and cities are formed and become larger as more peopl…IELTS urbanisation rateThe pace at which the proportion of people living in urban areas is increasing.IELTS usurpTo seize and hold power, position, or rights by force or without legal authority…GRE · SAT utiliseTo make practical and effective use of something.IELTS utilitariandesigned to be useful or practical rather than attractive; pragmaticSAT utilizeTo make practical and effective use of somethingTOEFL utopianmodeled on or aiming for a perfect society; idealisticSAT

V

vacateto leave or empty a place; to give up occupancySAT vaccinationTreatment with a vaccine to produce immunity against a disease.IELTS vaccineA biological preparation providing immunity to a diseaseTOEFL vacillateto waver between different opinions or actions; to be indecisiveSAT vacillatingWavering between different opinions or actions; irresolute.GRE vacuousHaving or showing a lack of thought or intelligence; empty and purposeless.GRE vagrantA person without a settled home or regular work who wanders from place to place.GRE validActually supporting the intended point or claim; logically sound.TOEFL · IELTS valid argumentA logically sound argument with well-supported premisesTOEFL valuableWorth a great deal of money; extremely useful or important.IELTS valueThe numerical quantity assigned to a variable, expression, or function; the resu…GRE vapidOffering nothing that is stimulating or challenging; dull and uninspired.GRE variableA symbol, usually a letter, that represents an unknown or changeable quantity in…GRE · TOEFL · IELTS variationA change or slight difference in condition, amount, or level.TOEFL · IELTS variegatedExhibiting different colors, tones, or forms; marked by variety or diversity.GRE varietyThe quality of being different or diverse; a number of things of the same genera…IELTS vascularRelating to blood vessels or plant vesselsTOEFL vastOf very great extent or quantity; immense.IELTS vauntTo boast about or praise something excessively.GRE vectorA quantity that has both magnitude and direction, often represented as a directe…GRE vegetationPlants considered collectively, especially those found in a particular area.IELTS vehementShowing strong feeling; forceful, passionate, or intense.GRE velocityThe rate of change of an object's position with respect to time, including both …GRE · TOEFL · IELTS veneerA superficial or deceptively attractive appearance that conceals the true nature…GRE venerateTo regard with great respect and reverence.GRE venialDenoting a fault or offense that is minor and easily forgiven.GRE veraciousSpeaking or representing the truth; truthful and accurate.GRE veracityConformity to facts; habitual truthfulness and accuracy.GRE verbatimWord for word; exactly as spoken or writtenTOEFL verbiageSpeech or writing that uses too many words or excessively technical expressions.GRE verifyTo make sure or demonstrate that something is trueTOEFL verisimilitudeThe appearance of being true or real; the quality of seeming believable.GRE veritableUsed for emphasis, meaning genuine or actual; true.GRE vertexThe point where two or more lines, edges, or rays meet to form an angle; a corne…GRE verticalPerpendicular to the horizontal plane; extending straight up and down.GRE vertigoA sensation of dizziness and disorientation, as if the surroundings are spinning…GRE vibrationAn oscillation of the parts of a fluid or an elastic solid; quivering movement.TOEFL · IELTS viewA particular way of thinking about something; an opinion or belief.IELTS viewpointA particular attitude or way of considering a matter; a point of view.TOEFL · IELTS vilifyTo speak or write about in an abusively disparaging manner; to defame.GRE vindicateTo clear someone of blame or suspicion; to prove that something is justified or …GRE vindictiveHaving or showing a strong desire for revenge; disposed to seek vengeance.GRE virtual realityComputer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment.IELTS virtuosoA person highly skilled in music or another artistic pursuit; someone with maste…GRE virulentExtremely severe or harmful in effect; bitterly hostile or antagonistic.GRE virusA microscopic infectious agent that replicates inside cellsTOEFL visceralRelating to deep inward feelings rather than to the intellect; instinctive and g…GRE viscosityThe resistance of a fluid to flowTOEFL visualRelating to sight; a picture or diagramTOEFL vitalAbsolutely necessary; essential.IELTS vituperateTo blame or insult someone in strong or violent language.GRE vividproducing powerful, clear images in the mind; bright and strikingSAT vocabularyThe set of words known or used in a fieldTOEFL vocabulary rangeThe extent of one's vocabulary knowledgeTOEFL vocationalRelating to an occupation or employment; practical rather than academic.IELTS voiceThe distinctive style of a writer expressed in their workTOEFL volatileLiable to change rapidly and unpredictably; (of a substance) easily evaporated.IELTS volunteerTo freely offer to do something; a person who does work without being paid.IELTS voraciousHaving a very eager approach to an activity; wanting or devouring great quantiti…GRE vortexA whirling mass of fluid or air, especially a whirlpool or whirlwind; a situatio…GRE vulnerabilityThe quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being harmed.IELTS

W

wanPale and giving the impression of illness or exhaustion; lacking vitality.GRE warrantTo justify or necessitate a course of action; to serve as adequate grounds for s…GRE waryFeeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.GRE · SAT water managementThe activity of planning, developing, distributing, and managing water resources…IELTS water scarcityThe lack of sufficient available water resources to meet water needs.IELTS watershedAn area of land that drains into a river; a turning point in a state of affairs.IELTS wavelengthThe distance between two successive wave peaksTOEFL wealth gapThe unequal distribution of assets among residents of a country or between natio…IELTS weatheringThe gradual breakdown of rock by atmospheric conditionsTOEFL weighTo consider the importance or value of somethingTOEFL welfareThe health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group; financial assistance t…IELTS wellbeingThe state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.IELTS whereasIn contrast or comparison with the fact that; while on the contrary.IELTS widelyTo a large extent or degree; by many people.IELTS widespreadFound or distributed over a large area or number of people.TOEFL · IELTS widthThe measurement of the extent of something from side to side; the shorter of two…GRE wind turbineA machine that converts wind energy into electrical energy.IELTS wisdomThe quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgement.IELTS wistfulHaving or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing.GRE wonderA feeling of surprise mingled with admiration; to feel admiration and amazement.IELTS woodlandLand covered with trees; a wood or forest.IELTS word choiceThe selection of specific words to convey meaning preciselyTOEFL word formThe grammatical category of a word such as noun or verbTOEFL wordinessThe use of too many words to express an ideaTOEFL wordyUsing more words than necessaryTOEFL workforceThe people engaged in or available for work, either in a country or in a particu…IELTS worryingCausing anxiety or concern.IELTS worthwhileWorth the time, money, or effort spent; of value or importance.IELTS write upTo record information in written formTOEFL

X

xenophobichaving an irrational fear or hatred of foreigners or foreign thingsSAT xylemPlant tissue that conducts water from roots to leavesTOEFL

Y

yieldTo produce or provide a result or profit; to give way under pressure.IELTS youthThe period between childhood and adult age; young people collectively.IELTS

Z

zealgreat energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objectiveSAT zealotA person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, poli…GRE zero wasteA philosophy that encourages redesigning resource life cycles so that all produc…IELTS zoneAn area with a particular characteristic or useTOEFL zoologyThe scientific study of animalsTOEFL zoomTo move quickly; in digital contexts, to use video conferencing technology.IELTS