Vocabulary Mnemonics Episode 69: Abstruse, griffonage, bumptious, and more!
Jun 7, 2025
Dive into the complexities of words like 'abstruse,' enriched by memorable mnemonics and real-life connections. Discover the fine line between 'griffonage' and glyphs through fun anecdotes about handwriting. Explore the quirks of vocabulary with terms like 'bumptious' and 'genteel,' equipped with techniques for retention. Uncover humor in meanings of 'ungulate' and 'ornery,' while embracing engaging stories. Finally, unravel the drama behind 'histrionics' and playful terms for nature, making vocabulary learning both entertaining and enlightening!
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Episode notes
Remembering 'Abstruse'
- The word "abstruse" means difficult to comprehend, similar to "recondite."
- You can remember it by associating "Abstruse Bruce" with Bruce Willis, linking difficulty in understanding.
Griffinage Means Bad Handwriting
- "Griffinage" means careless or illegible handwriting, like difficult-to-decipher glyphs.
- It reminds Mom of Griffin or Gryffindor from Harry Potter, helping to recall the word.
Bumptious as Loud and Obtrusive
- "Bumptious" describes noisy self-assertiveness or obtrusiveness, like an annoying salesman.
- Think of "bump" to connect to bumping into you with their behavior.