Exam: GRE (Verbal)

Definition: A man-made, silvery metallic element that is radioactive and has the atomic number 96. It is used in various scientific applications and has a long half-life for some of its isotopes.

Example: Curium is often used in scientific research and nuclear applications.

Definition: A person who is often in a bad mood and is difficult to please, usually an older man.

Example: My neighbor is such a curmudgeon; he complains about everything.

Definition: Describing someone who is bad-tempered, irritable, or difficult to please.

Example: My curmudgeonly neighbor always complains about the noise from the children playing outside.

Definition: The state or quality of being up to date or relevant.

Example: The currentness of the information is crucial for making informed decisions.

Definition: In a way that is quick and not thorough, often missing important details.

Example: She glanced cursorily at the report before the meeting.

Definition: Done quickly and without paying much attention to details.

Example: She gave a cursory look at the report before the meeting.

Definition: To make something shorter or to reduce its amount or extent.

Example: The school decided to curtail the summer vacation by two weeks.

Definition: The action of reducing or limiting something, often in terms of time, amount, or extent.

Example: The curtailment of services during the pandemic affected many businesses.

Definition: The area of land that is directly around a house, usually enclosed by a fence or wall.

Example: The children played in the curtilage of their home, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

Definition: The quality of being brief and abrupt in speech or manner, often to the point of being rude or unfriendly.

Example: Her curtness in response to the question surprised everyone in the meeting.