High School Word Definitions

Definition:

A person who is learning the alphabet or the basics of something; a beginner.

Example:

“As an abecedarian in Latin studies, she started with basic vocabulary.”

Definition:

A state of temporary disuse or suspension.

Example:

“The legislative proposal was held in abeyance pending further research.”

Definition:

The original evolution of life or living organisms from inorganic substances.

Example:

“Abiogenesis remains a fascinating area of research in evolutionary biology.”

Definition:

The formal rejection or renunciation of a belief, cause, or claim under oath.

Example:

“The defendant's abjuration of his previous testimony shocked the courtroom.”

Definition:

The act of washing oneself, especially as a religious rite or ceremonial purification.

Example:

“Ritual ablutions are integral to many religious practices worldwide.”

Definition:

The act of renouncing or rejecting something; self-denial or self-sacrifice.

Example:

“Her abnegation of worldly possessions reflected deep spiritual commitment.”

Definition:

The movement to end slavery or any other institution deemed unjust.

Example:

“Abolitionism gained significant momentum in the 19th century United States.”

Definition:

Causing moral revulsion; detestable, loathsome, or utterly unacceptable.

Example:

“The abominable treatment of prisoners violated international law.”

Definition:

The state or quality of being aboriginal; indigenous character or origin.

Example:

“The exhibition celebrated the aboriginality of indigenous Australian art.”

Definition:

A substance that induces abortion or terminates pregnancy.

Example:

“Medical ethics regarding abortifacient substances remains a complex issue.”

Definition:

A word used as a magic spell or incantation, or meaningless talk or writing.

Example:

“The magician shouted 'abracadabra' before revealing the surprise.”

Definition:

The formal repeal, abolition, or annulment of a law, right, or agreement.

Example:

“The abrogation of the treaty created diplomatic tensions between nations.”

Definition:

To leave abruptly or in a hurried manner; to flee or decamp.

Example:

“The suspect attempted to absquatulate before authorities arrived.”

Definition:

Sparing or moderate in eating and drinking; characterized by abstinence.

Example:

“His abstemious lifestyle contributed to his remarkable longevity.”

Definition:

Having cleansing or purging properties; detergent.

Example:

“The abstergent qualities of the soap made it effective for medical use.”

Definition:

The quality of being difficult to understand; obscurity or complexity.

Example:

“The abstruseness of the philosophical text challenged even advanced scholars.”

Definition:

A philosophical belief that human existence is meaningless and irrational.

Example:

“Albert Camus explored themes of absurdism in his existential literature.”

Definition:

Adherence to formal academic standards or conventions, often excessively.

Example:

“The critique accused the work of excessive academicism lacking creative spontaneity.”

Definition:

The philosophical doctrine that human knowledge is uncertain and nothing can be known with certainty.

Example:

“Ancient skeptics advocated acatalepsy regarding absolute truth.”

Definition:

The process of becoming accustomed to a new climate or environmental conditions.

Example:

“Proper acclimatization is essential before attempting high-altitude expeditions.”