We Beat the Street: vocabulary review

Which of the following is the correct definition for the word absorb as used in this sentence?

"George had no idea that Shakespeare was not usually taught in third grade. Miss Johnson simply offered it, and George, as well as the rest of his class, absorbed it."

• To mentally take in information; to comprehend

• to take in (something, such as water) in a natural or gradual way

• Consume

• to take in and make part of an existent whole

Which of the following is the correct definition for the word authority as used in this sentence?

There was no doubt as to her power and authority in that classroom.

• a conclusive statement or set of statements (such as an official decision of a court)

• a citation

• the power or right to give orders or make decisions; the power to be in charge

• a governmental agency or corporation

Which of the following is the correct definition for the word fortune as used in this sentence?

“In order to seek his fortune as an actor and a writer, Shakespeare ran away from home shortly after he got married, leaving his wife and three children to make it without him,” Miss Johnson explained.

• prosperity attained partly through luck

• destiny

• a store of material possessions

• success;wealth

Which of the following is the correct definition for the word glimpse as used in this sentence?

For the first time, George could see a glimpse of light, a spark of hope and possibility. College. What a cool idea.

• not seen or perceived

• a quick look

• a place of concealment

• something to hinder sight

Which of the following is the correct definition for the word vague as used in this sentence?

“College? I never even thought about it.” To George, the idea of college seemed like something foreign and vague, like going to China or the moon.

• lacking expression

• free from obstruction

• unclear; lacking form or detail

• translucent