Lesson 48

attractive in a showy or superficial way but lacking real value or sincerity

The movie's meretricious special effects couldn't hide its weak storyline.

without water; especially without water of crystallization

not selective of a single class or person

able to use both hands with equal skill and ease

She's ambidextrous and can write with either hand.

able to hold a large quantity

The capacious living room easily accommodated the large gathering of guests.

extraordinary and serving as a warning or sign of future events, often suggesting something bad or threatening

The dark clouds gathering on the horizon looked portentous, hinting at a severe storm approaching.

(of a sound) loud, harsh, and unpleasant to the ears

The raucous laughter from the party next door kept her awake all night.

(of a disease) transmittable from one person to another through close contact

COVID-19 is highly contagious, spreading easily among individuals in crowded places.

having or showing cleverness, creativity, or skill

The ingenious inventor devised a machine that could solve complex mathematical equations.

showing a disregard for moral rules or standards, especially in sexual behavior

The novel was banned for its licentious content.

(of documents or objects) pretending to be genuine

The detective spotted the spurious passport at once.

causing great harm or damage, often in a gradual or unnoticed way

The pernicious effects of smoking may take years to appear.

difficult and needing a lot of energy and effort

The new regulations placed on businesses by the government were onerous, requiring extensive paperwork and compliance measures.

foolishly fond of or submissive to your wife

excessively flattering and obeying a person, particularly in order to gain their approval or favor

She found his obsequious manner off-putting, as he always agreed with her, no matter what she said.

having keen, farsighted judgment and the ability to discern deeply and wisely

The sagacious leader quickly identified the root of the problem and implemented effective solutions.

eager to start a fight or argument

Always looking for a fight, his pugnacious behavior earned him a reputation in the office.

beyond the usual or ordinary, often causing amazement or admiration due to its exceptional nature

The fabulous display of fireworks illuminated the night sky with bursts of color and light.

existing as or having characteristics of a gas

experiencing or displaying an intense sexual interest

He was known for his lascivious behavior at parties.