Vocabulary and Synonyms

The Latin phrase "in extremis" literally means "at the point of death" or in extreme/dying circumstances. It refers to someone in a critical, life-threatening condition. Option C captures this precise meaning - being on the brink of death.

Nonchalance is the state of being calm, relaxed, and unbothered, especially in situations where others might be stressed. It means showing cool composure under pressure. Option B correctly identifies this as being composed under pressure.

Fleece is the wool covering a sheep or similar animal.  

A "gaff" is a hook or spar used on fishing boats to land large fish. It's also used as a climbing hook. Option B correctly identifies it as a hook - this is the primary meaning in nautical and fishing contexts.

Gaudy means brightly colored, showy, or ostentatious in a tasteless way. It refers to something flashy that attracts attention but lacks good taste. Option B correctly identifies it as flashy - this captures the meaning of being overly showy.

Forbearance means patience, self-control, or restraint - especially in the face of provocation or difficulty. It's the quality of holding back anger or reacting calmly. Option C correctly identifies it as patience.

Genesis means the origin, formation, or beginning of something. It refers to how something starts or comes into being. Option C correctly identifies it as beginning - this is the core meaning of the word.

The gist is the essence or substance of something - its most important part or main point. It's the core meaning or heart of a matter. Option A correctly identifies it as essence - this captures the meaning of the essential part.

Germinate means to sprout, begin to grow, or develop - especially used for seeds, spores, or ideas starting to develop. It's the process of beginning to grow. Option B correctly identifies it as sprout.

Gasconade means boastful or blustering talk - empty bragging or exaggerated claims. It refers to talking in a loud, confident way about abilities one doesn't actually have. Option A correctly identifies it as bluster - boastful, arrogant talk.

Glutinous means having a sticky or adhesive quality, like glue or paste. The word comes from the same root as 'glue' and describes substances that are tacky, gummy, or adhesive in texture.

Granulate means to form into grains or granules, like how sugar becomes granulated sugar. The word comes from 'grain' and describes the process of breaking something into small, grain-like particles.

Froward (pronounced 'forward') is an archaic word meaning willfully contrary, disobedient, or difficult to manage. It describes someone who stubbornly refuses to follow rules or authority.

Giddy describes the sensation of dizziness or lightheadedness, often from excitement, spinning, or feeling unsteady. It's related to being giddy with excitement where your head feels like it's spinning.

Gusty describes weather with strong, sudden bursts of wind. While 'windy' is a general term, gusty specifically refers to intermittent, powerful wind gusts rather than steady wind.