Lesson 20

to cut off the head of someone or something

The executioner was skilled in using the guillotine to decapitate condemned individuals.

to slow down or reduce the speed of something

The pilot carefully decelerated the airplane, bringing it to a smooth landing on the runway.

to interpret or understand something that is difficult or unclear

Students may need to decipher complex scientific texts to grasp the concepts.

lasting for a long time or continuing indefinitely

His perennial optimism helped him weather life's challenges.

a long journey, especially on foot

His peregrination through the mountains took several months, with many challenges along the way.

having a state of disorder and confusion

The office was in a shambolic state after the unexpected power outage.

a very brief period of time

For an instant, she thought she saw someone standing in the shadows.

a specific case or example of something

In this instance, the customer's complaint was resolved promptly by the manager.

the act of elevating a person's rank to that of a god

The emperor’s apotheosis was celebrated with grand ceremonies and rituals.

a clever and concise expression that contains a general truth or principle

The wise old teacher often used an apothegm to convey profound lessons in just a few words.

a medical professional who prepares and dispenses medicinal drugs and offers medical advice

The apothecary carefully measured and mixed herbs to create a remedy for the patient.

the point at which something reaches its highest level or most advanced stage of development

The company’s merger with a major international firm represented the apogee of its growth strategy.

(of a statement or story) unlikely to be authentic, even though it is widely believed to be true

He shared an apocryphal story about the founding of the city that many people still believe.

a deep, blood‑red color

The sunset bathed the sky in a rich sanguine.

demanding immediate obedience, particularly in a way that sounds unfriendly or rude

The manager’s peremptory tone left no room for discussion.

the development of blood cells

The process of sanguification begins in the bone marrow, where stem cells differentiate into various types of blood cells.

a place where animals are butchered to use their meat

The town had a small shambles where local farmers would bring their animals for slaughter.

(of a person) involved in or eager for bloodshed or violence

The sanguinary leader ordered relentless attacks on the enemy without mercy.