Noun

noun

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Good / Smart

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wonk - A person who takes an excessive interest in minor details of political policy

Rachel Maddow is a policy wonk on TV who walks her audience through the minor details of legislation and current events.

noun

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Other / Shape

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wedge - A piece of material with a thick end that tapers to a thin edge, used to split, support, or secure things; also something that forces separation or division between people or groups.

The disagreement drove a wedge between the two longtime friends, and they really didn't enjoy spending time together anymore.

noun

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Bad / Bad

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catastrophe - An event causing great and often sudden damage or suffering; a disaster

The Great Chicago Fire was a major catastrophe that nearly destroyed the city.

noun

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Bad / Strange

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gewgaw - A showy thing, especially one that is useless or worthless

Francine valued the weird ring that Tom gave her, even though it was an inexpensive gewgaw - because she felt it showed that he cared about her.

noun

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Good / Important

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epitome - Highest example of a certain quality

Dr. Linda Evans had many patients who came to her because she had a well-earned reputation for being the epitome of skill and integrity in her medical specialty

noun

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Good / Brave

audio

gumption - Having spirited initiative and resourcefulness

Jill had enough gumption inside her to raise her hand to object about what the speaker was saying, because she thought what was being said was totally stupid.

noun

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Good / Exciting

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homestretch - The last part of a process or action, such as a project has been a lot of work, and is now finishing.

The sales team knew they were in the homestretch of the year, and worked round the clock to meet their sales targets.

noun

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Bad / Disgusting

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squalor - A state of being extremely dirty and unpleasant, especially as a result of poverty or neglect

The popular TV show "Hoarders" focuses on people who live in so much squalor that they are trapped inside their homes.

noun

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Bad / Mistake

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bystander - a person who is near something that is happening but is involved by accident

When the police where chasing some robbers, they shot and injured some innocent bystanders.

noun

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Bad / Dislike

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acrimony - Showing feelings of anger and bitterness.

The former husband and wife were grateful that after their divorce they still were friends, and that there was no acrimony between them.

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Bad / Strange

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misfit - Someone whose behavior or attitude sets them apart, often making them feel isolated or out of place.

The new employee seemed like a misfit among the fast-paced corporate crowd.

noun

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Bad / War

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tyrant - A cruel and oppressive ruler, usually not restrained by law.

The tyrant locked up or killed anyone he thougth might be a threat.