Nickel and Dimed Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary Study Notes

• Neophyte

  • Refers to someone who has recently started learning or engaging in something.
  • Example: Young journalists often begin their careers as neophytes.

• Marxist

  • Relates to the theories of Karl Marx, emphasizing class struggle as a driving historical force.
  • Suggests the idea of a future classless society.

• Ineradicably

  • Describes something that cannot be removed or forgotten.
  • Highlights perceptions of educated individuals as inherently superior.

• Erstwhile

  • Means "in the past" and is often used to describe former relationships or roles.
  • Example: A past neighbor may evoke feelings of discomfort in new situations.

• Onerous

  • Refers to tasks that are difficult or unpleasant.
  • Example: Job application processes can be notably burdensome and complex.

• Mephitic

  • Characterizes something as foul-smelling or noxious.
  • Used to describe less-than-pleasant areas, such as certain kitchen environments.

• Altruistic

  • Describes behavior driven by a desire to help others, showcasing selflessness.
  • Example: Many low-wage jobs require an altruistic approach in service to others.

• Postprandial

  • Refers to activities occurring after a meal.
  • Associated with routines, such as cleaning up after dinner.

• Shamanistic

  • Pertains to shamanism, indicating a religious context involving unseen spiritual forces.
  • Often describes powerful, commanding presences or personalities.

• Prevarication

  • Refers to the act of avoiding truthfulness, particularly in response to questions.
  • Relevant in contexts requiring diplomacy or evasiveness in communication.

• Aphasic

  • Signifies impairment in the ability to use or understand words, typically due to brain damage.
  • Illustrates feelings of confusion and helplessness in new environments.

• Angstroms

  • A unit of length equal to one ten-billionth of a meter, often used in physics and chemistry.
  • Example: Describes minute distances when discussing speed and safe passing on highways.

• Eponymous

  • Describes something that is named after a specific person or character.
  • Commonly found in branding, associating products with famous figures or characters.