Ascending

Definition: moving upward; rising or increasing to higher levels, values, or degrees Quote: We live in an ascending scale when we live happily, one thing leading to another in an endless series. — Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894) Scottish Poet Comment: Some believe, after awakening on the other side of death, we are automatically given all … Read more

Arresting

Definition: attracting wanted attention or interest; striking; impressive Quote: I can think of no other experience quite like that of being 20 or so pages into a book and realizing that this is the real thing: a book that is going to offer the delicious promise of a riveting story, arresting language and characters that … Read more

Articulate

Definitions: (1) clearly and effectively presented or expressed <an articulate argument>; lucid; (2) a well formulated thought particularly well stated <no doubt of the meaning in another mind>; perspicuous; (3) a precise ability to put all of the appropriate pieces together in their correct positions Synonym: eloquent Quote: The man who can articulate the movements … Read more

Appropriate

Definitions: (1) to do exactly what is required under the circumstances; (2) especially suitable or relevant to a situation; (3) fit or proper; compatible <particularly with relationships> Synonyms: adapted, apt, becoming, congruous, particular Quote: I shall now recall to mind that the motion of the heavenly bodies is circular, since the motion appropriate to a … Read more

Approving

Definitions: (1) to have <and particularly express> a favorable attitude or opinion; (2) to be pleased with; to think or declare something or someone to be good or satisfactory; (3) to commend; endorse; sanction Synonyms: accrediting, admiring, authorizing, certifying, consenting, encouraging, praising, promoting, ratifying, supportive Quote: What do you call love, hate, charity, revenge, humanity, … Read more

Ardent

Definitions: (1) emotional warmth <he pursues his study with ardor>; (2) intense feeling; fervent; (3) deeply devoted; zealous; (4) a bright spirit Derivation: Latin, “to burn” Quote: Virtue demands the active employment of an ardent mind in the promotion of the general good. No man can be eminently virtuous who is not accustomed to an … Read more

Appreciation

Definitions: (1) value or esteem for others; (2) conscious of the significance, desirability, or quality of a person or their deeds; (3) discriminating perception and enjoyment of aesthetic values; (4) expressing admiration, approval, or grateful acknowledgment; (5) keenly sensible of or sensitive to; intuitive awareness; (6) exercising wise judgment, delicate discernment, or keen insight in … Read more

Appreciative

Definitions: (1) value or esteem for others; (2) conscious of the significance, desirability, or quality of a person or their deeds; (3) discriminating perception and enjoyment of aesthetic values; (4) expressing admiration, approval, or grateful acknowledgment; (5) keenly sensible of or sensitive to; intuitive awareness; (6) exercising wise judgment, delicate discernment, or keen insight in … Read more

Appealing

Definition: a pleasing attraction; interesting; charming Quote: We have eyes, and we’re looking at stuff all the time, all day long. I just think that whatever our eyes touch should be beautiful, tasteful, appealing, and important. — Eric Carle (1929–2021) American children’s books author

Appeasing

Definitions: (1) to make quiet or calm; to pacify or soothe; (2) to conciliate <especially by giving in to demands> Derivation: Latin, “at peace” Reflection: There are various appropriate ways to appease a baby or a small child. All parents learn this the hard way. A fussy child is a harsh teacher. But however the … Read more