Vocab: Importance of Being Earnest

Earnest

Serious in intention, purpose, or effort

Ward

A minor or an incompetent person placed under the care or protection of a guardian or court

Cynicism

An attitude of negativity or suspicion. Not positive

Vacillate

To sway from one side to the other; to change one's opinion from one view to another

Immaterial

Of no importance or meaning. Not related to issue at hand

Impetuous

Characterized by sudden and forceful energy or emotion; impulsive and passionate

Effrontery

Brazen boldness in a social situation

Arduous

Demanding great effort or labor, difficult

Misanthrope

One who hates or mistrusts human society, groups, or individuals

Pessimism

A tendency to stress the negative or unfavorable, or take the gloomiest possible view