Lesson 22

an unpleasant and loud noise that could be heard for an extended amount of time

The din of the crowd at the concert was so overwhelming that it almost drowned out the music.

a small, enclosed space or compartment used for work or other activities

a group of people hired to applaud or provide enthusiastic support for a performer or performance

The theater hired a claque to ensure a positive response to the play, despite its lackluster performance.

a penetrating and profound understanding that goes beyond surface-level observations or knowledge

Years of study and contemplation yielded profound insights into the nature of existence.

a scientific instrument used to detect and measure the intensity and duration of seismic waves caused by earthquakes or other seismic events

The seismograph recorded the tremors caused by the earthquake, providing valuable data to seismologists.

a magical or medicinal potion that is believed to cure all illnesses or prolong life indefinitely

a medicine without any physiological effect that is given to a control group in an experiment to measure the effectiveness of a new drug or to patients who think they need medicine when in reality they do not

In the clinical trial, half of the participants received the experimental drug while the other half received a placebo.

a lake, either natural or artificial, from which water is supplied to houses

The city's reservoir, nestled in the hills, stores water from nearby rivers and supplies it to thousands of homes.

a large, heavy, and typically scholarly book, often containing extensive information on a particular subject

The library shelves were filled with ancient tomes containing knowledge from civilizations long gone.

a feudal estate or land granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and military service

The king bestowed a vast fief upon his loyal knight as a reward for his bravery in battle.

the quality of being inadequate, often suggesting a deficiency or fault in performance or capability

The tendency of the product to malfunction after prolonged use was a significant demerit.

a deposit of valuable mineral resources, such as ore, found within the Earth's crust

The miners discovered a rich lode of gold deep within the mountain, sparking a rush to stake claims in the area.

a place or structure that provides protection from danger, adversity, or hardship

The hikers found refuge in a mountain cabin during the storm.

a literary device in which an attempt at serious or elevated writing or speech is undermined by an incongruous or absurd use of language or imagery

an object, often resembling a prey species, used to attract animals within range of the hunter

The hunter set up a lifelike decoy of a rabbit to lure nearby predators into range.

someone who is a member of the aristocracy, which is the highest social rank

In the 18th century, an aristocrat's life was filled with lavish parties, elegant balls, and exclusive social events.

a politician who appeals to the desires and prejudices of ordinary people instead of valid arguments in order to gain support

The demagogue stirred up emotions and exploited fears to gain support for his political agenda.

a feeling of happiness, joy, or amusement

The children's faces lit up with mirth as they played games and enjoyed the party.

(ethnic slur) offensive term for a person of Italian descent