Abolition

The ending of an institution or practice—in this case, slavery. Famous abolitionists include Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass.

Antebellum

A fancy way of saying "before fighting," the word is particularly used in association with the American Civil War. But feel free to use it at any hockey game…until the inevitable fight breaks out.

Confederacy

Most closely associated with the Confederate States of America and the Articles of Confederation, it implies power is more dispersed among its members than in a federal system. Generally, it's an alliance, particularly of states.

Consecrate

To declare something holy and blessed. It's not quite as easy as declaring bankruptcy, though.

Emancipation Proclamation

An executive order that set millions of slaves free, signed by President Abraham Lincoln. It didn't outlaw slavery, but it set up a system to eradicate slavery in territory seized by the Union. Emancipation is normally used in conjunction with slavery, but it also happens with child stars.

Yes. Corey Feldman was emancipated.

Hallow

To view something—like the Gettysburg battlefield—as holy. Although the term is not to be confused with "holey"—Swiss cheese isn't hallowed.

Popular Sovereignty

The idea that a nation's people are the source of all political power. Just like the People's Choice Awards.

Score

A grouping of 20. You want more than a dozen donuts but less than two dozen donuts? Ask for a score. Or don't, because the baker will give you the side-eye.

Secession

Mostly used in a political sense, it's formally breaking ties with a federation. Like the word "antebellum," you often hear it used with the Civil War.