Vocabulary and Synonyms

Surmount is a composite word which means “to mount above / to surpass”. “Sur' means “over” as in surpass, surplus.

Misjudged is composite word which means “wrongly judged”. “Mis” means “wrongly” as in mistake, mistrust. However, 'mis' also means hate as in Misogynist.

Separate is a composite word which means “to disunite”. “Se” means “apart” as in secret, secede, seclude.

Subterfuge is a composite word which means “an evasive device esp. in discussion”. “Sub” means “beneath” as in subway.

Return is a composite word which means “to give back”. “Re” means “again” as in revoke, refit, repair.

Collude is a composite word that means “to conspire in fraud jointly”. “Co” means “jointly” as in cooperate, coexistence, coauthor.

Aside is a composite word that means “on one side”. “A” means “to”, as in ashore. In different contexts, however, 'a' also means 'up' as in arise, without as in amoral.

Outperform, this is a composite word that means “to exceed in performance”, “Out' here means “surpass” as in outdo, outsmart.

Dysentery is a composite word which means “loose blooded motions”. “Dys” means “ill/difficult/impaired” as in dysfunction, dyslexia.

Polemical means relating to or involving controversial argument or polemics. In this context, the speaker is giving speeches that present controversial arguments attacking Christian belief, making 'controversial' the appropriate meaning. 'Ruthless' and 'deplorable' have negative moral connotations that don't fit, while 'candid' means honest/frank.

Disparage means to regard or represent as being of little worth or to speak disrespectfully about someone. 'Ridicules' captures this sense of mocking or treating with contempt, which would logically damage a child's self-confidence.

Lionize means to treat someone as a celebrity or give them public attention and praise. 'Glorified' best captures this sense of celebrating someone as a hero, which fits the context of Lindbergh being hailed after his historic flight.

Eulogize means to praise or commend someone highly and enthusiastically, especially in a formal context like a funeral. 'Praised' directly corresponds to this meaning of speaking well of someone after their death.

Boorish means ill-mannered, rude, or insensitive in social behavior. 'Crude' best captures this sense of lacking refinement or politeness, which explains why the host's table manners shocked the guests.

Adulate means to praise or admire someone excessively or obsequiously. 'Flattered' captures this sense of excessive admiration and attention from fans, which explains why it went to the actor's head.