Junior English Vocabulary
Wray List 13
Please create original sentences for each of the following words, underlining the word in each sentence.
1. affectation (n) A show, pretense, or display; artificiality. Her kind behavior was only an affectation and would soon disappear once she received what she wanted.
2. punctilious (adj) Strictly attentive to minute details of form in action or conduct. The military is characterized by its punctilious nature, upholding strict policies on tardiness, attire, and obedience.
3. somnambulate (v) To walk when asleep. Jerry faced danger every time he somnambulated, never knowing where he was going or what he was doing.
4. disconcerting (v) To upset the self-possession of; ruffle. The personal attack was disconcerting to the salesman, leaving him flustered and upset.
5. juxtapose (v) To place side by side, especially for comparison or contrast. In an attempt to make a point, the professor juxtaposed pictures of his students’ plush housing with images of the worst slums in India.
6. defunct (adj) Having ceased to exist or live. Once a favorite restaurant for many Americans, Sambo’s restaurants are now defunct, thanks in part to their racist logo and name.
7. abortive (adj) Failing to accomplish an intended objective; fruitless. Raul’s attempts to woo Irene became abortive once she heard of his sordid past.
8. distraught (adj) Deeply agitated, as from emotional conflict. Melissa was distraught by her ex-boyfriend’s phone call on the eve of her wedding.
9. vestige (n) A visible trace, evidence, or sign of something that once existed but exists or appear no more. Only a vestige of hope remained after the 100th day stranded on the island.
10. turgid (adj) Excessively ornate or complex in style or language. The student had a difficult time connecting to the turgid, dense poem.
11. contingency (n) An event that may occur but that is note likely or intended; a possibility. We were grateful to never have to implement the contingency plan.
12. profusion (n) Abundance; lavish or unrestrained expense; extravagance. When I visited the botanical garden, I was most struck by the profusion of flowers and greenery.
13. oblivion (n) The condition or quality of being completely forgotten. Luke was hailed as a hero after the Death Star was blasted into oblivion.
14. saunter (v) To walk at a leisurely pace; stroll. Mikaela sauntered through the market, absorbing herself in the smells and sounds of the village.
15. dilatory (adj) Intended to delay; tending to postpone or delay. Carlie launched into a dilatory speech in hopes that Ben would miss his plane.