American & World Literature

meek

adjective

Definition

quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive

reticent

adjective

Definition

Not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily

exasperated

adjective

Definition

very annoyed or irritated, especially after repeated problems

vitality

noun

Definition

The state of being strong, active, and full of energy

demeanor

noun

Definition

the way a person behaves or appears to others

condescending

adjective

Definition

Showing a superior attitude toward others

introspective

adjective

Definition

examining one’s own thoughts and feelings carefully

aloof

adjective

Definition

Not friendly or forthcoming; distant and reserved

foreboding

noun

Definition

A feeling that something bad will happen

dismissive

adjective

Definition

Showing that something is unworthy of consideration

obstinate

adjective

Definition

stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or behavior

somber

adjective

Definition

Dark or dull in tone; gloomy

candid

adjective

Definition

Truthful and straightforward; frank

taciturn

adjective

Definition

habitually quiet and reserved; saying little

frivolous

adjective

Definition

not serious or important; silly or unnecessary

wry

adjective

Definition

Using dry, mocking humor

petulant

adjective

Definition

showing sudden, impatient irritation, especially over small things

mar

verb

Definition

To damage or spoil the appearance or quality of something

despondent

adjective

Definition

In low spirits from loss of hope or courage

resigned

adjective

Definition

Accepting something unpleasant that cannot be changed

bewildered

adjective

Definition

confused and unsure about what is happening

melancholy

noun

Definition

A feeling of deep sadness or gloom

idyllic

adjective

Definition

Extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque

ambivalent

adjective

Definition

Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something

austere

adjective

Definition

Severe or strict in manner or appearance; plain and simple

earnest

adjective

Definition

Showing sincere and intense conviction

pensive

adjective

Definition

deeply thoughtful, often with a hint of sadness

wistful

adjective

Definition

Showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing

scornful

adjective

Definition

showing strong dislike and disrespect for someone or something

detached

adjective

Definition

emotionally uninvolved or distant; not influenced by feelings

poignant

adjective

Definition

Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret

deferential

adjective

Definition

showing respect and yielding to the opinions or wishes of others

diligent

adjective

Definition

Showing steady and careful effort in work or duties

solemn

adjective

Definition

Serious and dignified in manner or appearance

contemptuous

adjective

Definition

Showing deep hatred or disapproval

flush

verb

Definition

To become red in the face from emotion or heat

arrant

adjective

Definition

Complete and utter, often used to emphasize something bad

indifferent

adjective

Definition

Having no particular interest or concern; unconcerned

fervent

adjective

Definition

showing strong, passionate feelings about something

apprehensive

adjective

Definition

feeling worried or nervous about something that might happen