| ambiguous |
having more than one possible meaning. |
| animate |
to bring to life. |
| assumption |
something that is supposed or believed without questioning. For example, if you ask someone whether she is allowed to watch TV during dinner, you have made an assumption that there is a TV in her house. Assumptions are ideas people have that are not based on proven facts. An assumption can be correct or incorrect. |
| broaden |
to make or become broad or broader. |
| census |
an official count of the people who live in a country or other area. A census is also used to collect information about these people, such as their job, age, or sex. |
| confrontation |
the act of facing or meeting another without evasion or avoidance. |
| gorge |
a narrow space between rocky cliffs. |
| lax |
not rigorous, strict, or careful; loose; lenient. |
| obstruct |
to block or clog. |
| optimistic |
likely to be hopeful that things will work out well. |
| petition |
a formal, written request by many people that is made to a person in authority. |
| preferential |
giving advantage to one over others. |
| shrewd |
clever and careful. |
| shrine |
a sacred place or object that is devoted to some holy person or god. |
| spry |
moving in a brisk and lively way; nimble. |