On Civil Disobedience Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from On Civil Disobedience

expedient (noun)

A means of attaining an end, especially one that is convenient but possibly improper or immoral.

posterity (noun)

All future generations of people.

alacrity (noun)

Brisk and cheerful readiness or eagerness.

fain (adverb)

Willingly or gladly; used to express a desire or preference.

unscrupulous (adjective)

Having or showing no moral principles; not honest or fair.

posse comitatus (noun phrase)

A group of citizens summoned by a sheriff to help enforce the law or keep the peace.

leaven (verb)

To cause a gradual, pervasive transformation or improvement throughout something.

countenance (noun)

Support, approval, or encouragement given to a person or cause.

gregariousness (noun)

The quality of being fond of company; a tendency to seek out and enjoy the companionship of others.

virile (adjective)

Having qualities traditionally associated with adult manhood, such as strength and vigor.

penitent (adjective)

Feeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong; repentant.

scourge (verb)

To whip or punish severely; to cause great suffering to.

reproach (noun)

An expression of disapproval or disappointment; blame or censure directed at someone.

diabolical (adjective)

Belonging to or characteristic of the devil; extremely evil or wicked.

transgress (verb)

To go beyond the limits of what is morally or legally acceptable; to violate a law or rule.

impetuous (adjective)

Acting or done quickly without thought or care; impulsive and rash.

copartnership (noun)

A joint partnership or shared association between parties in a common enterprise.

desponding (adjective)

Losing hope or courage; becoming disheartened or dejected.

invidious (adjective)

Likely to arouse resentment or anger in others, especially by being unfairly discriminating.

exorbitant (adjective)

Unreasonably high in amount; far exceeding what is fair or appropriate.

lyceum (noun)

A hall or institution for public lectures, concerts, and educational programs.

underbred (adjective)

Lacking good manners or refinement; ill-bred or vulgar.

burghers (noun)

Citizens or residents of a town, especially members of the middle class in a European city.

pretext (noun)

A reason given to justify an action that is not the real reason; a false excuse.

prudence (noun)

The quality of acting with care and thought for the future; cautious good judgment.

acuteness (noun)

Sharpness of mind, perception, or insight; keenness of intellect.

rectitude (noun)

Morally correct behavior or thinking; strict adherence to what is right and ethical.

sanction (noun)

Official permission or approval for an action; authoritative endorsement.