The Scarlet Ibis — Vocabulary
James Hurst
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Exemplary sample Uses ACT/SAT
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precariousunsure (in danger of falling)
Her footing on the ladder looked precarious.more
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On the topmost branch a bird the size of a chicken, with scarlet feathers and long legs, was precariously.†
precarious → precariously:in an unsafe or unsure manner
Show general definition unsafe or in danger of getting worse -- especially in danger of falling
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heresysomething immoral
It is a hardline form of Sunni Islam that condemns all other strains as heresy.more
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For a long time, it seemed forever, I lay there crying, sheltering my fallen scarlet ibis from the heresy of rain.†
opinions or actions most people consider immoral
Show general definition opinions or actions most people consider immoral
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poisecomposure (calm confidence -- even when under pressure)
She has great charm and great poise.more
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Doodle stopped eating, with a piece of bread poised ready for his mouth, his eyes popped round like two blue buttons.†
poise → poised:calm, confident, and in control
Show general definition calm, confident, and in control—especially in movement, behavior, or when ready to act