This document defines 10 vocabulary words: canvass, downtrodden, entice, erode, melancholy, ordeal, ratify, regal, stifle, and vital. It provides the part of speech and definition for each word.

1. Vocabulary Unit 9

2. canvass (v.) to go through an area in order to procure votes, sales, or opinions; to go over in detail; to discuss

3. downtrodden (adj.) treated unfairly and cruelly, oppressed

4. entice (v.) to attract, tempt

5. erode (v.) to wear away gradually, eat away

6. melancholy (adj.) sad, gloomy, unhappy (n.) sadness, gloominess

7. ordeal (n.) a difficult or painful experience, a trial

8. ratify (v.) to approve, give formal approval to, confirm

9. regal (adj.) royal, kinglike; fit for a king

10. stifle (v.) to smother, prevent from breathing; to hold back or choke off

11. vital (adj.) having life, living; necessary to life, essential; key, crucial