vocabulary intro - Greek and Latin

2. Unit One
Unit Two
Unit Three
Unit Four
Unit Five
Unit Seven
Unit Eight
Unit Nine
Unit Ten
Unit Eleven
Unit Twelve
Unit Thirteen
Unit Fourteen
Unit Fifteen
Unit Sixteen
Unit Seventeen
Unit Eighteen
Unit Nineteen
Unit Twenty
Introduction
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Unit Six
Unit Twenty-One
Unit Twenty-Two

3. The first slide provides the vocabulary word.
Use this to begin thinking about the definition.
INTRODUCTION
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4. INTRODUCTION
The first click will reveal a context in
which the word might be used. Infer the definition of
the word by studying its context.
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5. INTRODUCTION
A second click provides the definition of the word.
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6. UNIT ONE
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7. VINC, VICT
INVINCIBLE
Although the Romans thought of themselves as invincible, they too
were eventually conquered.
adj. Unable to be conquered
L. in, “not,” + vincere = not able to be conquered
syn: invulnerable
ant: vulnerable
Unit One
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Latin VINCERE, VICTUM “to conquer”

8. VINC, VICT
PROVINCIAL
Rory’s somewhat provincial outlook made it difficult for her to
understand what people in other parts of the world were going through.
adj. Limited in knowledge of the world; narrow-minded
L. pro, “forward,” + vincere = having to do with a conquered territory
ant: sophisticated
Unit One
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Latin VINCERE, VICTUM “to conquer”

9. VINC, VICT
EVINCE
The incident at the mill evinced the old saying, “Don’t count your
chickens before they hatch.”
v. To establish; to reflect the truth of
L. e, “out of,” + vincere = to overcome [as with evidence]
Unit One
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Latin VINCERE, VICTUM “to conquer”

10. DUC, DUCT
CONDUCIVE
These noisy conditions are not conducive to learning or teaching.
adj. Supportive; encouraging; helping to bring about
L. com, “with,” + ducere = leading along with
syn: helpful, favorable
Unit One
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Latin DUCERE, DUCTUM “to lead”

11. DUC, DUCT
INDUCE
Is there any way I can induce you to come for coffee with me?
v. To lead towards some action
L. in, “towards,” + ducere = lead into
syn: persuade
ant: discourage
Unit One
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Latin DUCERE, DUCTUM “to lead”

12. DUC, DUCT
DEDUCE
The detectives deduced from the evidence that the bank had been
robbed not long before.
v. To draw a conclusion from fact; to infer
L. de, “down, away from,” + ducere = lead down from
syn: conclude
Unit One
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Latin DUCERE, DUCTUM “to lead”

13. TRACT
PROTRACTED
There was a protracted struggle between the two armies.
adj. Extended in time; prolonged
L. pro, “forward,” + tractum = dragged forward
syn: lingering
ant: brief
Though they usually broke early, PRO TRACK stars held a PROTRACTED
practice today, running even after the sun went down.
Unit One
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Latin TRAHERE, TRACTUM “to drag”

14. TRACT
INTRACTABLE
Isaiah’s intractable nature made bedtimes difficult for his mother.
adj. Stubborn; obstinate; hard to move forward
L. in, “not,” + tractum = not able to be drawn forward
syn: immovable
ant: malleable
Unit One
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Latin TRAHERE, TRACTUM “to drag”

15. TRACT
RETRACT
When I found out I was wrong, I was forced to retract my statement.
v. To draw back; withdraw
L. re, “back,” + tractum = to draw back
syn: repeal
Unit One
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Latin TRAHERE, TRACTUM “to drag”

16. PETO
PETULANT
When I told my little brother to put away his toys, he fell into a
petulant fit and threw the toys down the stairs.
adj. Irritable or short-tempered
Unit One
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Latin PETERE, PETITUM “to seek aggressively, to assail, to rush”

17. PETO
IMPETUOUS
Because Barry was a rather impetuous boy, he often found himself
getting into fights over little things.
adj. Acting passionately and without forethought
L. in, “in, towards” + petere = rushing towards
syn: rash
ant: careful
Unit One
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Latin PETERE, PETITUM “to seek aggressively, to assail, to rush”

18. PETO
IMPETUS
The tragic accident at the crossroads was the impetus for a meeting
on traffic safety.
n. That which drives one; momentum
L. in, “into,” + petere = rushing into
syn: stimulus
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Latin PETERE, PETITUM “to seek aggressively, to assail, to rush”
Unit One

19. UNIT TWO
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20. FRACT, FRING, FRANG
FRACTIOUS
Malcolm grew from a fractious and irritable child into a tolerant and
peaceful adult.
adj. Tending to argue or cause discord
syn: cross, peevish
ant: amiable
Unit Two
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Latin FRANGERE, FRACTUM “to break”

21. FRACT, FRING, FRANG
INFRACTION
For his infraction of the camp code, Kevin had to peel potatoes in
the kitchen.
n. Minor violation of a rule or law
L. in, intensifier + fractum = to break
syn: transgression
Unit Two
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Latin FRANGERE, FRACTUM “to break”

22. FRACT, FRING, FRANG
INFRINGE
Susan said her father was infringing upon her freedom when he took
her car.
v. To intrude on an area belonging to another; to trespass
L. in, intensifier + frangere = to break
Unit Two
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Latin FRANGERE, FRACTUM “to break”

23. CIS
EXCISE
Having excised several paragraphs from my essay, I returned to ask
my teacher’s advice.
v. To cut out of; remove
L. ex, “out of,” + cisum = cut out of
syn: expunge
Unit Two
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Latin CAEDERE, CISUM “cut, kill”

24. INCISIVE
Natasha’s fast-moving narratives and incisive style never failed to
impress us.
adj. Sharply cutting; direct and powerful
L. in, “into,” + cisum = cutting into
syn: keen
ant: dull
Unit Two
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CIS
Latin CAEDERE, CISUM “cut, kill”

25. CONCISE
Because I had only one page to write my note on, my language had
to be concise.
adj. Brief and straightforward
L. con, “with,” + cisum = cutting with or away
syn: terse
ant: rambling
Unit Two
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CIS
Latin CAEDERE, CISUM “cut, kill”

26. TOM
TOME
When I removed the scholarly tome from the shelf, I saw that it had
not been read for years.
n. A large and serious book
G. temnein, “to cut”
Unit Two
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Greek TEMNEIN “to cut”

27. TOM
EPITOME
I hardly think I am the epitome of good citizenship, since I’m not
even a registered voter.
n. The best or most typical example
G. epi, “upon,” + temnein = cut upon
syn: embodiment
Unit Two
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Greek TEMNEIN “to cut”

28. TOM
DICHOTOMY
The film critic discussed the fundamental dichotomy in the movie.
n. Two opposite parts of one whole
G. dicho, “two,” + temnein = cut in two
Unit Two
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Greek TEMNEIN “to cut”

29. TOM
ANATOMY
Maurice’s anatomy showed the results of years of suffering.
n. The structure or parts, taken as a whole
G. ana, “up,” + temnein = cutting up (any structure)
Unit Two
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Greek TEMNEIN “to cut”

30. PUNCT
COMPUNCTION
Even after a long time in jail, the woman showed no compunction
for her crime.
n. Feeling of regret or remorse
L. com, intensifier + punctum = stinging
syn: penitence
Unit Two
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Latin PUNGERE, PUNCTUM “to sting, pierce”

31. PUNCT
PUNCTILIOUS
Max was a punctilious dresser; his hat was always perfectly straight,
and his shoes were always shiny.
adj. Paying strict
attention to detail; extremely careful
syn: meticulous
ant: careless
The PUNK was PUNCTILIOUS
about where to rip his jeans.
Unit Two
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Latin PUNGERE, PUNCTUM “to sting, pierce”

32. PUNCT
PUNGENT
The pungent aroma of garlic greeted us as we entered the restaurant.
adj. Stinging or biting, especially in taste or smell
Unit Two
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Latin PUNGERE, PUNCTUM “to sting, pierce”

33. UNIT THREE
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34. PEL, PULS
COMPEL
The pressures of poverty compel many people to do things they
would not do otherwise.
v. To force or strongly persuade; coerce
L. com, “along with,” + pellere = to drive along with
syn: sway, eject
ant: admit
Unit Three
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Latin PELLERE, PULSUM “to push, to drive”

35. PEL, PULS
IMPULSE
When Nick saw the rows and rows of candy, he was seized by an
impulse to spend all of his money.
n. A sudden, involuntary urge to do something
L. in, “within,” + pulsum = pushed from within
syn: whim, spur
Unit Three
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Latin PELLERE, PULSUM “to push, to drive”

36. PEL, PULS
EXPEL
The council took a vote on whether to expel the treasurer for his
accounting mistakes.
v. To send out or away
L. ex, “out of,” + pellere = to push out
syn: eject
ant: admit
Unit Three
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Latin PELLERE, PULSUM “to push, to drive”

37. JAC, JECT
CONJECTURE
Because you do not know where I was on the night in question, your
assertions about what I did are pure conjecture.
n. A guess, often one based on inadequate or faulty evidence
L. com, “together” + jectum = thrown together
syn: theory
ant: fact
Unit Three
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Latin JACERE, JECTUM “to throw, to cast”

38. JAC, JECT
DEJECTED
After Mac lost the race, he sat in the corner, abandoned and dejected.
adj. Downcast or sad; depressed
L. de, “down,” + jectum = cast down
syn: dispirited
ant: animated
Unit Three
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Latin JACERE, JECTUM “to throw, to cast”

39. JAC, JECT
ABJECT
Even in the wealthiest countries, some people are forced to live in
abject poverty.
adj. Lowly, miserable and wretched
L. ab, “away,” + jectum = thrown away
syn: degraded
ant: exalted
Unit Three
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Latin JACERE, JECTUM “to throw, to cast”

40. MIT, MIS
We sent out a SCARY-looking
EMISSARY to speak with the enemy.
EMISSARY
During the peace talks, the young Italian diplomat was sent as an emissary
to Beijing.
n. An agent sent on a mission
L. ex, “out,” + missum = one sent out
syn: go-between
Unit Three
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Latin MITTERE, MISSUM “send”

41. MIT, MIS
DISMISSIVE
The professor responded to my confused question with a dismissive
wave of his hand.
adj. Showing little regard; scornful
L. dis, “apart, away,” + missum = sending away
syn: contemptuous
Unit Three
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Latin MITTERE, MISSUM “send”

42. MIT, MIS
REMISS
Do you think I was remiss in not cleaning up after the party?
adj. Failing to fulfill one’s duty; negligent
L. re, “back,” + missum = sent back
syn: delinquent
ant: prudent
Unit Three
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Latin MITTERE, MISSUM “send”

43. MOT, MOV
MOTIVE
The detective had the difficult job of establishing a motive for the
murder of a popular businessman.
n. Cause for action
L. motus = moving (reason or idea)
syn: incentive
Unit Three
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Latin MOVERE, MOTUS “to move”

44. MOT, MOV
MOTIF
The recurring father-son motif in this novel makes me wonder about
the author’s relationship with his own father.
n. A recurring theme, subject or idea
French motif, “dominant idea,” originally from Latin motus
Unit Three
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Latin MOVERE, MOTUS “to move”

45. MOT, MOV
EMOTE
My sister tended to emote more than the other members of our shy,
socially awkward family.
v. To dramatically express emotions
L. e, “out of,” + motus = to move out of (oneself)
syn: dramatize
Unit Three
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Latin MOVERE, MOTUS “to move”

46. UNIT FOUR
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47. VIA
VIADUCT
The ancient viaduct washed out in the heavy rains.
n. A bridge that carries a road or railroad over a valley
L. via + ductum, “leading” = road leading
Unit Four
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Latin VIA “road, way”

48. VIA
IMPERVIOUS
Andy seems impervious to criticism, but his feelings are very easily hurt.
adj. Unable to be affected
L. in, “not,” + per, “through,” + via = no way through
syn: invulnerable
Unit Four
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Latin VIA “road, way”

49. VIA
DEVIATE
Once Rick decides on a plan for his business projects, he never
deviates from it.
v. To depart, especially from a path or plan
L. de, “off, away from,” + via = off the path
syn: stray
ant: continue
Unit Four
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Latin VIA “road, way”

50. VIA
OBVIATE
If you take safety precautions now, you can obviate some future
medical expenses.
v. To make unnecessary; to avoid
L. ob, “in the way of,” + via = to get in the way
syn: prevent
Unit Four
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Latin VIA “road, way”

51. FER
DEFER
1. If Mahmoud decides to travel to France, he will have to defer his
examinations until April.
2. The younger doctor will defer to his senior partner when the patient asks
a question.
1. v. To put aside until later; 2. v. To yield respectfully
L. de, “off, away,” + ferre = to put off
syn: postpone
ant: hasten
Unit Four
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Latin FERRE “to carry, to bring”

52. FER
DEFERENCE
As new soldiers, we were warned to show deference to our
commander in all matters.
n. Act or practice of yielding to another’s authority
syn: submission
ant: rebellion
Unit Four
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Latin FERRE “to carry, to bring”

53. FER
CONFER
1. The trivia show contestant conferred with the other members of her
team before answering the question.
2. In a ceremony held earlier today, the government of France
conferred several honors on the general.
1. v. To discuss something with someone else; consult; 2. v. To bestow
L. con, “together,” + ferre = to carry together
Unit Four
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Latin FERRE “to carry, to bring”

54. FER
INFERENCE
When I saw the horse tracks across the snow, I made the inference
that someone had left the gate open, allowing the horses to escape.
n. A conclusion not directly provided by evidence,
but able to be drawn from the facts at hand
L. in, “in,” + ferre = to bring in
Unit Four
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Latin FERRE “to carry, to bring”

55. FER
PROFFER
When the reporter asked for more information, the policeman
proffered a ten-page document.
v. To present or offer
L. pro, “forward,” + ferre = to bring forward
ant: withhold
Unit Four
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Latin FERRE “to carry, to bring”

56. FER
PROLIFERATE
Without natural predators, a species will proliferate until it
overwhelms its environment.
v. To increase greatly in number; multiply
L. proles, “offspring,” + ferre = to bring forth offspring
syn: reproduce
Unit Four
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Latin FERRE “to carry, to bring”

57. PORT
COMPORTMENT
No fault could be found with my comportment during the awards
ceremony.
n. Manner in which one acts or behaves
L. com, “together,” + portare = bring together
syn: demeanor
Unit Four
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Latin PORTARE, PORTATUM “to carry, to bring”

58. PORT
PURPORTED
Tim’s purported illness kept him out of school on the day of the test.
adj. Claimed as true, but probably false
L. pro, “forward,” + portare = brought forth
syn: alleged
ant: definite
Unit Four
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Latin PORTARE, PORTATUM “to carry, to bring”
It was once PURPORTED that
PORPOISES could talk.

59. UNIT FIVE
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60. VID, VIS
ENVISAGE
No matter how she tried, Larraine could not envisage living
anywhere but California.
v. To imagine; to conceive of
L. in, “in,” + visum = to see into
syn: perceive
Unit Five
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Latin VIDERE, VISUM “to see”

61. VID, VIS
VISAGE
The twisted visage of the monster costume frightened the toddlers in
the room.
n. Face; facial expression
syn: expression
Unit Five
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Latin VIDERE, VISUM “to see”

62. PARI
APPARITION
The first time Hamlet sees the apparition of his dead father, he can
hardly believe his eyes.
n. An unreal figure; a ghost
L. ad, “to,” + parere = appear to
syn: specter
Unit Five
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Latin PARERE, PARITUM “be visible, appear”

63. SPEC
PERSPICACIOUS
Having praised Kate for her perspicacious decisions as treasurer,
Nigel went on to warn her of the obstacles ahead.
adj. Wise; insightful; acutely intelligent
L. per, “through,” + specere = seeing through
syn: perceptive
ant: dim-witted; short-sighted
Unit Five
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Latin SPECERE, SPECTUM “to look”

64. SPEC
RETROSPECTIVE
The museum will be showcasing a retrospective exhibit of the
sculptor’s works.
adj . Looking backward over a period of time
L. retro, “backwards,” + spectum = looking backward
Unit Five
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Latin SPECERE, SPECTUM “to look”

65. SPEC
ASPECT
Not every aspect of this situation is negative; though we have made
mistakes, we can learn from them.
n. A part that can be considered or viewed
L. ad, “toward,” + spectum = seen toward
syn: facet
Unit Five
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Latin SPECERE, SPECTUM “to look”

66. SPEC
INTROSPECTIVE
The introspective poet enjoyed taking long walks alone.
adj. Contemplating one’s own thoughts and feelings
L. intro, “within,” + spectum = looking within
syn: meditative
ant: shallow
Unit Five
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Latin SPECERE, SPECTUM “to look”

67. PHAN
PHENOMENON
We observed the same phenomenon numerous times among the
songbirds.
n. A fact or event which can be observed and/or documented
Unit Five
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Greek PHANEIN “to appear, to show”

68. PHAN
DIAPHANOUS
The diaphanous curtains were lightly lifted by any breeze, no matter
how slight.
adj. Lightweight and transparent
G. dia, “through,” + phanein = to show through
syn: opaque
Unit Five
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Greek PHANEIN “to appear, to show”

69. PHAN
EPIPHANY
The doctor’s epiphany eventually led to a breakthrough vaccine.
n. A moment of great insight; revelation
G. epi, “near to,” + phanein = appearing near to
TIFFANY had an EPIPHANY while studying.
Unit Five
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Greek PHANEIN “to appear, to show”

70. PHAN
SYCOPHANT
The new president of the company was surrounded by sycophants
who never disagreed with him.
n. A person who flatters; a yes-man
G. sukos, “fig,” + phanein = fig-displayer
Unit Five
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Greek PHANEIN “to appear, to show”

71. UNIT SIX
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72. HER, HES
ADHERENT
Pilar was an adherent of the Baptist faith until about five years ago,
when she converted to Catholicism.
n. A follower of a person or idea
L. ad, “to,” + haerere = to stick to
syn: disciple
ant: opponent
Unit Six
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Latin HAERERE, HAESUM “to attach, be fixed”

73. HER, HES
INCOHERENT
The mayor’s incoherent speech about financial responsibility
confused the audience.
adj. Not able to be understood; nonsensical
L. in, “not,” + co, “together,” + haerere = not sticking together
syn: confused
ant: clear
Unit Six
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Latin HAERERE, HAESUM “to attach, be fixed”

74. HER, HES
INHERENT
In human beings, the desire to build and create is inherent.
adj. Existing as a natural part
L. in, “within,” + haerere = fixed from within
syn: innate, inborn
Unit Six
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Latin HAERERE, HAESUM “to attach, be fixed”

75. FUS
DIFFUSE
1. You can tighten up a diffuse essay by removing off-topic sentences.
2. The chemist noticed that the colored oil had diffused through the water
in the glass.
1. adj. not concentrated or focused; wordy; 2. v. to spread out or distribute
L. dis, “apart,” + fusum = poured apart
syn: 1. scattered; 2. disperse
ant: 1. concentrated; 2. concentrate
Unit Six
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Latin FUNDERE, FUSUM “to pour out”

76. FUS
EFFUSIVE
The volunteers, young and effusive, all seemed to speak at once.
adj. Overflowing with words or feelings; gushing
L. ex, “out of,” + fusum = pouring forth
syn: enthusiastic
ant: restrained
Unit Six
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Latin FUNDERE, FUSUM “to pour out”

77. FUS
PROFUSE
The reviewers’ praise for the young actor was profuse.
adj. Plentiful; abundant
L. pro, “toward,” + fusum = pouring out (in a heap)
syn: bounteous
The PROF USED PROFUSE words to
explain the workings of the solar system.
Unit Six
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Latin FUNDERE, FUSUM “to pour out”

78. SOLU, SOLV
RESOLUTE
The firemen faced the disaster with resolute courage.
adj. Determined; steadfast
L. re, “again,” + solutum = solving again
syn: unshakeable
Unit Six
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Latin SOLVERE, SOLUTUM “to loosen, to solve”

79. SOLU, SOLV
DISSOLUTE
Neil’s father disapproved of Neil’s dissolute, party-centered lifestyle.
adj. Devoted to sensual pleasure; lacking moral restraint
L. dis, “apart,” + solutum = loosened (so as to fall apart)
syn: dissipated; decadent
Unit Six
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Latin SOLVERE, SOLUTUM “to loosen, to solve”

80. SOLU, SOLV
INSOLUBLE
1. The company’s financial problems were difficult, but not insoluble.
2. Because the fibers are insoluble in water, they take a long time to break
down.
adj. 1. Impossible to solve or fix; 2. Unable to be dissolved
L. in, “not,” + solutum + ible, “able to be” = not able to be solved
syn: 1. puzzling; 2. tough
ant: uncomplicated
Unit Six
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Latin SOLVERE, SOLUTUM “to loosen, to solve”

81. LEG
DILIGENT
If you are diligent in your studies, you’ll learn a lot and get good grades.
adj. Hard-working and careful
L. dis, “apart,” + legere = setting apart; carefully selecting
syn: assiduous
ant: lazy
Unit Six
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Latin LEGO, LECTUM “to select, to choose, to gather”

82. LEG
RECOLLECT
The witness could not recollect seeing anything unusual on the day of
the crime.
v. To remember; to recall
L. re, “again,” + con, “together,” + lectum = gathered back together
Unit Six
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Latin LEGO, LECTUM “to select, to choose, to gather”

83. LEG
SACRILEGE
Many people considered the theft of the church funds not just a
crime, but a sacrilege.
n. An act against a holy person or place
L. sacer, “holy,” + legere = one who collects holy objects illegally
syn: profanity
ant: reverence
Unit Six
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Latin LEGO, LECTUM “to select, to choose, to gather”

84. UNIT SEVEN
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85. FAC, FACT, FIC
PROFICIENT
Teresa is a proficient harpist, but she’s also a wonderful piano player.
adj. Skilled at; highly knowledgeable of
L. pro, “forward,” + facere = forward doing (going forth, achieving)
syn: able
ant: unskilled
Unit Seven
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Latin FACERE, FACTUM “to make, do”

86. FAC, FACT, FIC
FACTOTUM
In my role as office factotum, I served coffee, made copies, called
clients, and balanced the company checkbook.
n. An assistant who does a variety of jobs
L. facere + totum, “all, everything” = one who does everything
Unit Seven
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Latin FACERE, FACTUM “to make, do”

87. FAC, FACT, FIC
FACSIMILE
The art dealer produced a facsimile of the painting that could hardly
be distinguished from the original.
n. A copy or imitation
L. facere + similis, “alike” = made alike
syn: reproduction
ant: original
Unit Seven
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Latin FACERE, FACTUM “to make, do”

88. FAC, FACT, FIC
FACILE
The book’s facile explanation of complex scientific principles will
leave readers feeling unsatisfied.
adj. Too simplistic or easy
L. facilis, “easy,” originally from facere
syn: shallow
ant: complex
Unit Seven
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Latin FACERE, FACTUM “to make, do”

89. PON, POUND
EXPOUND
We listened to the police chief expound upon the new traffic regulations.
v. To explain or discuss in detail
L. ex, “out of,” + positum = to arrange out of
syn: clarify
The dieter EXPOUNDED upon his EX-POUNDS.
Unit Seven
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Latin PONERE, POSITUM “to put, to place, to arrange”

90. PON, POUND
PROPONENT
Is the governor a proponent of stricter gun control?
n. One who argues in favor of; supporter
L. pro, “supporting,” + ponere = to put forward with support
syn: advocate
ant: critic
Unit Seven
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Latin PONERE, POSITUM “to put, to place, to arrange”

91. STRUCT, STRUE
INFRASTRUCTURE
The council discussed improvements to the infrastructure of the
county tax program.
n. The basic framework of a building or a system
L. infra, “between,” + structum = built between
Unit Seven
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Latin STRUERE, STRUCTUM “to build”

92. STRUCT, STRUE
CONSTRUE
Alton construed Cindy’s thoughtful silence as a rejection of his proposal.
v. To interpret or analyze something in a particular way
L. con, “together,” + struere = to build together (evidence)
syn: understand
ant: mix up
Unit Seven
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Latin STRUERE, STRUCTUM “to build”

93. STRUCT, STRUE
CONSTRUCTIVE
Matt tried to provide constructive, but honest, advice to his coworkers.
adj. Having a positive effect; helpful
L. con, “together,” + structum = to build together (to build up)
syn: useful
ant: harmful
Unit Seven
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Latin STRUERE, STRUCTUM “to build”

94. STIT, STAT
DESTITUTE
When my friends found themselves destitute and facing a harsh
winter, they turned to me for help.
adj. Having no money; poor
L. de, “down from,” + status = down from a standing position
syn: penniless
ant: prosperous
Unit Seven
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Latin STARE, STATUS “to stand”

95. STIT, STAT
RESTITUTION
After Greg got food poisoning, he sued the restaurant for restitution.
n. Payment for an injury; compensation
L. re, “again,” + status = standing again
syn: amends
Unit Seven
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Latin STARE, STATUS “to stand”

96. STIT, STAT
STATURE
If you want to improve your stature in the company, try working
longer hours.
n. Level of achievement or authority; standing
L. status = standing
syn: rank
Unit Seven
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Latin STARE, STATUS “to stand”

97. UNIT EIGHT
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98. PLAC
COMPLACENT
Susanna saw that the children were becoming lazy and complacent,
so she urged them to become involved in volunteer work.
adj. Satisfied with a situation that should be changed or improved
L. com, intensifier, + placere = too pleased
syn: smug
Unit Eight
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Latin PLACERE, PLACITUM “to please”

99. PLAC
PLACEBO
Good news on the political front is often a placebo for the stock market,
even if it becomes bad news again the next day.
n. Something which has a positive mental effect, but no physical effect
L. literally, “I will please”
syn: quick fix
Unit Eight
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Latin PLACERE, PLACITUM “to please”

100. PLAC
PLACID
Tara’s placid expression never seemed to register the chaos around her.
adj. Calm; undisturbed
syn: peaceful
ant: agitated
Unit Eight
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Latin PLACERE, PLACITUM “to please”

101. GRAT
GRATUITOUS
Movies today are often criticized for gratuitous violence.
adj. Unnecessary or unwanted
L. gratus done only to please (unasked for, unneeded)
syn: unessential
ant: important
Unit Eight
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Latin GRATUS “pleasing, earning thanks” or “thankful”

102. GRAT
INGRATIATE
Annie suspected that the student was trying to ingratiate himself
with his teachers.
v. To gain another’s favor by flattery or false friendliness
L. in, “in, to” + gratus = into favor
Unit Eight
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Latin GRATUS “pleasing, earning thanks” or “thankful”

103. GRAT
INGRATE
When Amber threw down her birthday present in disappointment,
she seemed a spoiled little ingrate.
n. One who is not properly thankful
L. in, “not,” + gratus = not thankful
Unit Eight
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Latin GRATUS “pleasing, earning thanks” or “thankful”

104. DOC, DOCT
DOCILE
Ruffles, who had previously been the most docile of the cats,
suddenly started hissing and biting.
adj. Easily taught; submissive to instruction
L. docilis = able to be taught
syn: obedient
ant: defiant
Unit Eight
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Latin DOCERE, DOCTUM “to teach”

105. DOC, DOCT
INDOCTRINATE
The cult leader attempted to indoctrinate his new followers in the
ways of his teachings.
v. To teach a certain point of view to
L. in, “into,” + docere = to teach into
syn: instill
Unit Eight
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Latin DOCERE, DOCTUM “to teach”

106. DOC, DOCT
DOCTRINE
Followers of this political doctrine believe that war is the solution to
most political problems.
n. That which is taught; body of beliefs or ideas
L. doctrina = a teaching
syn: creed
Unit Eight
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Latin DOCERE, DOCTUM “to teach”

107. TEMPER
TEMPER
Serita tempers her spicy stew with a little milk or yogurt.
v. To decrease the strength of
Unit Eight
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Latin TEMPERARE, TEMPERATUM “to temper, make less severe”

108. TEMPER
TEMPERANCE
Jordan’s temperance at the buffet table spared her the indigestion
that I got.
n. Restraint or moderation, especially in regards to alcohol or food
syn: frugality
ant: indulgence
For many, the TEMPLE was a place of TEMPERANCE.
Unit Eight
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Latin TEMPERARE, TEMPERATUM “to temper, make less severe”

109. TEMPER
INTEMPERATE
In terms of climate, the Sahara desert and Antarctica are two of the
most intemperate places in the world.
adj. Lacking moderation; severe or extreme
L. in, “not,” + temperatum = not tempered
syn: rigorous
Unit Eight
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Latin TEMPERARE, TEMPERATUM “to temper, make less severe”

110. UNIT NINE
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111. TORT, TORQ
TORTUOUS
The tortuous road up the mountain was difficult and dangerous to
navigate in the dark.
adj. Not direct or straightforward
L. tortus = twisting
syn: circuitous
ant: straightforward
Unit Nine
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Latin TORQUERE, TORTUS “to twist”

112. TORT, TORQ
RETORT
When I complained that Paula had given me bad directions, she
retorted that I should have looked at a map.
v. To respond critically or sarcastically
L. re, “back,” + tortus = to twist (words) back
syn: reply
Unit Nine
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Latin TORQUERE, TORTUS “to twist”

113. TORT, TORQ
EXTORT
Because the corrupt official possessed potentially damaging information
about his colleagues, he wanted to extort money from them.
v. To wrongly or illegally force someone to comply with a demand
L. ex, “out of,” + tortus = twisted out of
syn: coerce
ant: coax
Unit Nine
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Latin TORQUERE, TORTUS “to twist”

114. VOLV, VOLU
VOLUBLE
Our new recruit was an enthusiastic and voluble young man who
would strike up a conversation with anyone.
adj. Talkative; given to rapid, abundant speech
L. volutum = rolling out (words)
syn: chatty
ant: quiet
Unit Nine
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Latin VOLVERE, VOLUTUM “to roll, to turn”

115. VOLV, VOLU
CONVOLUTED
Sarah looked skeptical when she heard my convoluted excuse for
being late.
adj. Having too many twists and turns; overly complicated
L. con, “together,” + volutum = to roll together
syn: tangled
ant: clear
Unit Nine
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Latin VOLVERE, VOLUTUM “to roll, to turn”

116. VOLV, VOLU
EVOLVE
Our volunteer group started out small, but evolved into a large,
statewide organization.
v. To unfold; to develop or change gradually
L. e, “out of,” + volvere = to turn out
syn: progress
ant: regress
Unit Nine
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Latin VOLVERE, VOLUTUM “to roll, to turn”

117. FLEX, FLECT
INFLEXIBLE
Some of Greg’s students thought of him as an inflexible tyrant
because he never allowed them extra time for assignments.
adj. Too unchangeable in character or purpose
L. in “not,” + flectum = not bending
syn: rigid, stiff
ant: flexible
Unit Nine
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Latin FLECTERE, FLECTUM “to bend”

118. FLEX, FLECT
DEFLECT
Joe skillfully deflected his opponent’s blows with an upraised arm.
v. To cause to turn aside or away
L. de, “away,” + flectum = turn (something) aside
syn: redirect
ant: accept
Unit Nine
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Latin FLECTERE, FLECTUM “to bend”

119. FLEX, FLECT
INFLECTION
If you want to make your meaning clearer, try a different inflection on the
first words of the poem.
n. Change in pitch or tone of the voice
L. in, “in,” + flectere = to bend (the voice)
A tonsil INFECTION changed
the singer’s INFLECTION.
Unit Nine
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Latin FLECTERE, FLECTUM “to bend”

120. VERT, VERS
ADVERSE
We were pleased to have made it up the mountain under such
adverse conditions.
adj. Not helpful; harmful
L. ad, “against,” + versum = turned against
syn: unfortunate, injurious
ant: conducive
Unit Nine
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Latin VERTERE, VERSUM “to turn”

121. VERT, VERS
REVERT
Annie hopes never to revert to the bad habits she gave up.
v. To fall back into an old condition
L. re, “back,” + vertere = to turn (something) back
syn: lapse
ant: improve
Unit Nine
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Latin VERTERE, VERSUM “to turn”

122. VERT, VERS
SUBVERT
The queen was afraid the rebellious subjects would subvert her authority.
v. To undermine; to corrupt
L. sub, “beneath,” + vertere = to turn from beneath
syn: invalidate
ant: support
Unit Nine
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Latin VERTERE, VERSUM “to turn”

123. UNIT TEN
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124. CRIMIN
DECRIMINALIZE
Eric is part of a group that is calling upon the government to
decriminalize certain drugs.
v. To do away with legal penalties for
L. de, “away, off,” + crimen = (to take) a crime away
Unit Ten
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Latin CRIMEN “crime, charge of crime”

125. CRIMIN
INCRIMINATE
If the stolen necklace we found in your drawer doesn’t incriminate
you, I don’t know what does.
v. To reveal guilt, or make (someone) appear guilty
L. in, “onto,” + crimen = (put) crime onto
syn: implicate
ant: acquit
Unit Ten
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Latin CRIMEN “crime, charge of crime”

126. CRIMIN
RECRIMINATION
The two friends got into a bitter fight and began hurling recriminations
at one another.
n. An accusation made in reply; a counter charge
L. re, “back,” + crimen = charge (made) back
syn: rebuke
Unit Ten
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Latin CRIMEN “crime, charge of crime”

127. CULP
CULPABLE
Marshall, who ran the Tilt-a-Whirl, considered himself culpable for
the accident at the amusement park.
adj. Deserving blame
L. culpatum + able = able to be blamed
syn: liable
ant: blameless
Unit Ten
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Latin CULPARE, CULPATUM “to blame”

128. CULP
CULPRIT
Police currently have no idea who the culprit behind the fire might
be, but they have a long list of suspects.
n. One responsible for a crime
syn: perpetrator
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Latin CULPARE, CULPATUM “to blame”

129. CULP
MEA CULPA
“Mea culpa!” said Miguela, with some embarrassment, when she
realized that she’d left the car windows down.
n. Interjection statement uttered to show personal responsibility for a
wrong
Directly from Latin mea culpa, “my fault”
Unit Ten
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Latin CULPARE, CULPATUM “to blame”

130. ONUS, ONER
ONUS
The onus of proving that this man was at the crime scene now rests
on the detective.
n. Burden or obligation
syn: duty
Since nobody else would do it, the
ONUS of moving the piano was ON US.
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Latin ONUS “burden”

131. ONUS, ONER
ONEROUS
Dr. Lassiter faced the onerous task of telling the patient that his
cancer had spread.
adj. Unpleasant and burdensome
syn: demanding
ant: easy
Unit Ten
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Latin ONUS “burden”

132. ONUS, ONER
EXONERATE
We feel sure the evidence we have uncovered will exonerate Anna.
v. To prove not guilty
L. ex, “out of,” + onus = out of the burden (of proof)
syn: acquit
ant: condemn, convict
Unit Ten
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Latin ONUS “burden”

133. PROB, PROV
APPROBATION
Ellen won widespread approbation for her work in biomedical research.
n. Praise or approval
L. ad, “towards,” + probare = approval towards
syn: commendation
ant: condemnation
Unit Ten
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Latin PROBARE, PROBATUM “prove good, approve”

134. PROB, PROV
REPROBATE
The reprobates who set fire to the forest must be caught and punished.
n. A dishonest or immoral person; a scoundrel
L. re, “back, away from,” + probare = one away from approval
syn: delinquent
Unit Ten
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Latin PROBARE, PROBATUM “prove good, approve”

135. PROB, PROV
REPROVE
My aunt Thelma gently reproved me for taking more than my share
of dessert.
v. To scold or criticize
L. re, “back,” + probare = approval back
syn: chide
ant: praise
Unit Ten
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Latin PROBARE, PROBATUM “prove good, approve”

136. UNIT ELEVEN
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137. FID
DIFFIDENT
The young student, fearing the wrath of her teacher, spoke in a tiny,
diffident voice.
adj. Shy; not assertive
L. dis, “not,” + fidere = not trusting
syn: bashful
ant: confident
Unit Eleven
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Latin FIDERE, FISUS “to trust, believe”

138. FID
FIDELITY
The fidelity shown by the soldier was the subject of a book and a film.
n. Faithfulness; loyalty
L. fidelis, “faithfulness,” from fidere
ant: treachery
Unit Eleven
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Latin FIDERE, FISUS “to trust, believe”

139. FID
CONFIDE
Gerri confided to me that she was very nervous about performing for
the first time.
v. To trust (another) with information or a secret
L. con, “with,” + fidus = to be trusting with
ant: conceal
Unit Eleven
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Latin FIDERE, FISUS “to trust, believe”

140. FALL
FALLACY
Even if I could convince myself that everyone feels the way I do, I
would know in my heart that it was a fallacy.
n. A misleading or mistaken idea
L. fallax, “deceptive (idea),” from fallere
syn: misconception
ant: truth
Unit Eleven
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Latin FALLERE, FALSUM “to deceive”

141. FALL
FALLACIOUS
The council accused the businessman of unethical conduct and
fallacious wording of contracts.
adj. Misleading or deceptive
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Latin FALLERE, FALSUM “to deceive”

142. FALL
FALLIBLE
My brother strongly believed in the cause, but he was as fallible as
any human being, and temptation led him astray.
adj. Capable of being mistaken; imperfect
L. fallere + ible, “able to be” = able to be deceived
ant: infallible, flawless
Unit Eleven
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Latin FALLERE, FALSUM “to deceive”

143. CRED
CREDIBLE
Sam’s story about the avalanche was amazing, but credible.
adj. Able to be trusted in or believed
L. credere + ible, “able to be” = able to be believed
syn: valid
ant: doubtful
Although Sam told me that tires are EDIBLE,
something tells me that isn’t CREDIBLE.
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Latin CREDERE, CREDITUM “to trust, believe”

144. CRED
CREDENCE
I did not give credence to the rumors about the sheriff.
n. Trust or belief
syn: acceptance
ant: mistrust
Unit Eleven
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Latin CREDERE, CREDITUM “to trust, believe”

145. CRED
CREDULITY
As Gabrielle grew older, she lost her innocent credulity and became
more cynical about people’s intentions.
n. Tendency to believe things too quickly or easily
syn: gullibility
ant: skepticism
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Latin CREDERE, CREDITUM “to trust, believe”

146. CRED
INCREDULOUS
When Pete heard what I said, he gave me an incredulous stare.
adj. Unable to believe something; amazed
L. in, “not,” + credere = not believing
syn: skeptical
ant: trusting
Unit Eleven
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Latin CREDERE, CREDITUM “to trust, believe”

147. DUB
DUBIOUS
Penny seemed rather dubious about the whole idea of skydiving.
adj. Uncertain; doubtful
syn: unconvinced
ant: positive
Unit Eleven
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Latin DUBIUS “doubtful” DUBITARE, DUBITATUM, “to doubt”

148. DUB
INDUBITABLE
The mechanic was a man of indubitable loyalty.
adj. Certain beyond doubt or question
L. in, “not,” + dubius = not able to be doubted
syn: absolute
ant: unsure
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Latin DUBIUS “doubtful” DUBITARE, DUBITATUM, “to doubt”

149. DUB
REDOUBTABLE
Even the most redoubtable of the warriors did not last very long in
the blizzard.
adj. Worthy of fear or respect; mighty
Middle French redouter, “dread,” (from L. re, “again,” + dubius,
“doubt”)
syn: formidable
Unit Eleven
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Latin DUBIUS “doubtful” DUBITARE, DUBITATUM, “to doubt”

150. UNIT TWELVE
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151. ULTIMA
ULTIMATE
The ultimate humiliation came when Robbie’s teacher yelled at him
in front of the whole class.
adj. Surpassing all others; definitive
L. ultimus = having a final quality
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Latin ULTIMUS “last”

152. ULTIMA
PENULTIMATE
In the penultimate chapter of the book, the author prepares us for
the shocking twists of the final chapter.
adj. Just before the final; next to last
L. paene, “almost,” + ultimus = the next to last
Unit Twelve
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Latin ULTIMUS “last”

153. ULTIMA
ULTIMATUM
The pirates gave us an ultimatum: either reveal where the prisoners
were, or walk the plank.
n. A demand or threat that is final
L. ultimus (that which is) final
Unit Twelve
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Latin ULTIMUS “last”

154. FIN
INFINITE
Although Seth was a man of seemingly infinite patience, he
sometimes became frustrated.
adj. Without beginning or end
L. in, “not,” + finis = (having) no end
Unit Twelve
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Latin FINIS “end, border, limit”

155. FIN
DEFINITIVE
John did not consider the work a definitive authority on the history
of tennis.
adj. Defining for all others; standard
L. de, “from,” + finis = (measurable) from its limits
syn: absolute
ant: uncertain
Unit Twelve
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Latin FINIS “end, border, limit”

156. FIN
INFINITESIMAL
If any of the contaminant is left in the water supply, it is there only
in infinitesimal amounts.
adj. Extremely small; incalculably or immeasurably small
L. in, “not,” + finis = (so small as to have) no measure
syn: microscopic
ant: huge
Unit Twelve
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Latin FINIS “end, border, limit”

157. NOV
NOVEL
The company had a novel approach to the problem of engine
breakdown.
adj. New and different
syn: original
ant: stale
Unit Twelve
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Latin NOVUS “new”

158. NOV
NOVICE
Even I, a chess novice, could appreciate the beauty of the master’s play.
n. An inexperienced person; amateur
L. novitia, “one who is new,” from novus
syn: beginner
ant: expert
The NOVICE gangster had “NO VICE” yet.
Unit Twelve
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Latin NOVUS “new”

159. NOV
INNOVATIVE
The innovative design of the new C-267 makes it the easiest vacuum
cleaner to use.
adj. Showing creativity and originality
L. in, “intensive,” + novus = very new
syn: inventive
ant: conservative
Unit Twelve
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Latin NOVUS “new”

160. PRIM
PRIMAL
Fear is one of our more primal emotions; it helped our ancient
ancestors survive.
adj. Original; dating from the beginning of existence
syn: primitive
ant: modern
Unit Twelve
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Latin PRIMUS “first”

161. PRIM
PRIMEVAL
The rough cliffs had a primeval splendor that made us think of the
beginning of time.
adj. Extremely ancient; of earliest time
L. primus + aevum, “age” = [dating from] the first age
syn: primordial
Unit Twelve
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Latin PRIMUS “first”

162. PRIM
PRIMACY
No one dared question the primacy of the police captain in the precinct.
n. Condition of being first in time or importance
Unit Twelve
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Latin PRIMUS “first”

163. UNIT THIRTEEN
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164. ERR
ABERRANT
Since the data had previously been so consistent, the aberrant
results puzzled the scientists.
adj. Deviating from a pattern or rule
L. ab, “away from,” + errare = wandering away from
syn: abnormal
ant: typical
Unit Thirteen
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Latin ERRARE, ERRATUM “to wander”

165. ERR
ERRONEOUS
Tina came to the understandable but erroneous conclusion that all dogs
were unfriendly.
adj. Wrong or inaccurate
L. erronis (from errare) = straying from (the correct rule or standard)
syn: mistaken
ant: correct
Unit Thirteen
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Latin ERRARE, ERRATUM “to wander”

166. ERR
ERRANT
The errant knight soon found more adventure than he had bargained for.
adj. Wandering or straying
syn: wayward
ant: on course
Unit Thirteen
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Latin ERRARE, ERRATUM “to wander”

167. GRAD, GRESS
DEGRADE
Hannah felt that the mayor’s comment degraded women and should
be withdrawn.
v. To lower in dignity or esteem; insult
L. de, “down,” + gradi = (to cause to) go down
syn: belittle
ant: honor
Unit Thirteen
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Latin GRADI, GRESSUM “to go forth, to proceed”

168. GRAD, GRESS
CONGRESS
The meeting of scientists was hailed as “a congress of great minds.”
n. A coming together
L. con, “together,” + gressum = a proceeding together
Unit Thirteen
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Latin GRADI, GRESSUM “to go forth, to proceed”

169. GRAD, GRESS
EGRESS
The prisoners were given egress after their court hearing.
n. Act of going out; exit
L. e, “out of,” + gressum = going out
Unit Thirteen
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Latin GRADI, GRESSUM “to go forth, to proceed”

170. VEN, VENT
CONVENE
With the ringing of the bell, our chairman convened the fifth annual
workshop.
v. To call together, to assemble
L. con, “together,” + venire = to come together
syn: gather
ant: adjourn
Unit Thirteen
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Latin VENIRE, VENTUM “to come”

171. VEN, VENT
COVENANT
Because the ancient covenant between the two tribes had been
broken, a special meeting had to be called.
n. A mutual or legal agreement
syn: contract
ant: break off
Unit Thirteen
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Latin VENIRE, VENTUM “to come”

172. VEN, VENT
CIRCUMVENT
Harold attempted to circumvent the problem by planning ahead.
v. To avoid by going around; bypass
L. circum, “around,” + ventum = to go around
syn: sidestep
ant: confront
The traffic had to CIRCUMVENT the CIRCUS
TENT that was set up in the middle of Main Street.
Unit Thirteen
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Latin VENIRE, VENTUM “to come”

173. CUR, CURS
CURSORY
Diane gave me a cursory wave as she was whisked away into the
ballroom.
adj. Hasty and superficial
syn: casual
ant: comprehensive
Unit Thirteen
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Latin CURRERE, CURSUM “to run”

174. CUR, CURS
PRECURSOR
The shower of hail was only a precursor to the worst storm we had
ever seen.
n. That which comes before; forerunner
L. pre, “before,” + currere = running before
syn: harbinger
Unit Thirteen
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Latin CURRERE, CURSUM “to run”

175. CUR, CURS
RECOURSE
When Cameron needed help building the house, his only recourse
was to go to his brother.
n. Help for a problem; solution
L. re, “back,” + currere = running back
syn: resource
Unit Thirteen
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Latin CURRERE, CURSUM “to run”

176. CUR, CURS
INCURSION
The soldier surveyed the damage after the enemy incursion.
n. An attack on another’s territory; a raid
L. in, “into,” + currere = running into
syn: invasion
Unit Thirteen
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Latin CURRERE, CURSUM “to run”

177. UNIT FOURTEEN
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178. VIR
VIRILE
Will tried to prove he was strong and virile by lifting the enormous
refrigerator.
adj. Masculine; manly
Unit Fourteen
When Eric looked in the mirror,
he saw a VIRILE VIKING.
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Latin VIR “man”

179. VIR
VIRTUE
It takes a special kind of virtue to do good acts and never seek
recognition for them.
n. Right action; moral goodness
Unit Fourteen
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Latin VIR “man”

180. VIR
VIRTUOSO
Frank was a piano virtuoso; he could play extraordinarily difficult
pieces by ear.
n. Someone extraordinarily skilled in a particular art
Unit Fourteen
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Latin VIR “man”

181. DEM
DEMAGOGUE
Some voters feared our governor, whose opinions seemed to change
depending on his audience, was in danger of becoming a demagogue.
n. A leader who appeals to people’s emotions to gain power
G. demos + agein, “to lead” = one who leads people
Unit Fourteen
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Greek DEMOS “people”

182. DEM
DEMOGRAPHIC
The company targeted a very specific demographic group with a new series
of advertisements aimed at teenagers.
adj. Having certain characteristics in common, such as age, race, or gender
G. demos + graphy, “study of” = study of people
Unit Fourteen
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Greek DEMOS “people”

183. DEM
PANDEMIC
The mysterious disease seemed to be pandemic among the inhabitants
of the country.
adj. Having an effect on a large area or region
G. pan, “all,” + demos = all people
syn: rampant
ant: confined
Unit Fourteen
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Greek DEMOS “people”

184. POLIT
COSMOPOLITAN
While Wendy’s husband thought the restaurant had an appealing
cosmopolitan flavor, Wendy’s mother thought the whole place rather
snobbish.
adj. Worldly or sophisticated
G. cosmos, “world,” + polis = being a citizen of the world
syn: cultured
ant: unpolished
Unit Fourteen
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Greek POLIS “city”

185. POLIT
POLITICIZE
Some people criticize the President for politicizing an otherwise
neutral situation.
v. To give a political character to something
Unit Fourteen
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Greek POLIS “city”

186. POLIT
APOLITICAL
Many people who were once apolitical turned out to vote in the recent
elections.
adj. Having no interest in politics; not political
G. a, “not,” + politikos (from polis) = not political
Unit Fourteen
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Greek POLIS “city”

187. CIVIS
CIVILITY
Although my brother and I fought constantly, we treated each other
with civility in public.
n. Politeness; courteousness
syn: decorum
ant: rudeness
Unit Fourteen
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Latin CIVIS “citizen”

188. CIVIS
CIVIC
Mrs. Morita considers it her civic duty to attend the town meetings.
adj. Having to do with the business of a town or community
Unit Fourteen
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Latin CIVIS “citizen”

189. CIVIS
CIVILIZE
My mother’s attempt to civilize her wild children only made us more
determined to do whatever we wanted.
v. To make more cultured or refined
syn: polish
Unit Fourteen
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Latin CIVIS “citizen”

190. UNIT FIFTEEN
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191. DIC, DICT
DICTATE
1. Regina dictated a letter for her secretary.
2. Our current circumstances dictate that we conserve money and
resources.
v. 1. To speak aloud in order that one’s words may be copied or recorded;
2. To give an order; to make necessary
syn: demand
ant: allow
Unit Fifteen
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Latin DICERE, DICTUM “to say, to order”

192. DIC, DICT
MALEDICTION
To Claudia, Leo’s angry words were practically a malediction.
n. A recital of words intended to harm; a curse
L. male, “badly,” + dicere = speaking badly (of one)
Unit Fifteen
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Latin DICERE, DICTUM “to say, to order”

193. DIC, DICT
BENEDICTION
A local rabbi started the ceremony by giving a benediction to the audience.
n. A blessing
L. bene, “well,” + dictum = to speak well
Unit Fifteen
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Latin DICERE, DICTUM “to say, to order”

194. LOC, LOQU
LOCUTION
Nothing about Francis’ careful locution betrayed his nervousness.
n. Style or action of speaking
Unit Fifteen
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Latin LOQUI, LOCUTUS “to speak”

195. LOC, LOQU
ELOQUENT
Brenda composed an eloquent tribute for her younger sister’s wedding.
adj. Powerful and expressive
syn: articulate
ant: unclear
Unit Fifteen
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Latin LOQUI, LOCUTUS “to speak”

196. LOC, LOQU
COLLOQUIAL
When the residents of Stoneville were interviewed on television,
they dropped some of their colloquial expressions in favor of more
formal language.
adj. Of or related to informal speech; conversational
L. con, “together,” + loqui = to speak together
syn: idiomatic
Unit Fifteen
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Latin LOQUI, LOCUTUS “to speak”

197. VOCA
EVOCATIVE
The novel features an evocative description of a lakeside town in
Michigan.
adj. Calling forth a vivid image or impression
L. e, “out of,” + vocatum = to call out (of memory or mind)
syn: suggestive
Unit Fifteen
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Latin VOCARE, VOCATUM “to call”

198. VOCA
EQUIVOCATE
Because Shonda felt it her duty never to equivocate to a client, she
made a point of discussing both sides of every problem.
v. To use misleading or confusing language
L. equi, “equal,” + vocere = to say (two things) equally
syn: evade
Unit Fifteen
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Latin VOCARE, VOCATUM “to call”

199. VOCA
ADVOCATE
1. The senator plans to advocate capital punishment for those convicted of
murder.
2. As an advocate of careful financial planning, I cannot go along with
your plan to invest in a bubble-gum factory.
1. v. To argue in favor of; 2. n. Someone who argues for
L. ad, “toward,” + vocere = to call to toward
syn: 1. recommend; 2. supporter
ant: 1. oppose; 2. enemy
Unit Fifteen
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Latin VOCARE, VOCATUM “to call”

200. CLAM, CLAIM
EXCLAMATORY
Mr. Litt is famous for the exclamatory style of his speeches.
adj. Having a forceful, excited, or emotional tone
L. ex, “out of,” + clamare = shouting out
Unit Fifteen
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Latin CLAMARE, CLAMATUM “to shout or call”

201. CLAM, CLAIM
DECLAIM
Martin declaimed upon the subject of tax hikes until he was blue
in the face.
v. To speak loudly and with feeling
L. de, “down from,” + clamare = to shout down from
Unit Fifteen
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Latin CLAMARE, CLAMATUM “to shout or call”

202. CLAM, CLAIM
CLAMOROUS
The pianist entered the auditorium to clamorous applause.
adj. Characterized by a loud noise or outcry
syn: ear-splitting
ant: quiet
Unit Fifteen
The crowd was so CLAMOROUS that the
GLAMOROUS singer could not be heard.
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Latin CLAMARE, CLAMATUM “to shout or call”

203. UNIT SIXTEEN
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204. CRUX
EXCRUCIATING
Min was forced to sit through an excruciating series of piano recitals.
adj. Extremely painful; agonizing
L. ex, “out of,” + crux = from the cross
syn: unbearable
ant: pleasant
Unit Sixteen
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Latin CRUX “cross”

205. CRUX
CRUX
The crux of the matter is the difference between children and adults.
n. The most important or decisive point
syn: essence
ant: extra
Unit Sixteen
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Latin CRUX “cross”

206. CRUX
CRUCIAL
Good study skills are often crucial to success in high school and college.
adj. Extremely necessary; essential
Unit Sixteen
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Latin CRUX “cross”

207. DOL
INDOLENT
Being of a somewhat indolent character, Paige was not inclined to
take on extra jobs.
adj. Lazy; averse to work
L. in, “not,” + dolere = feeling no pain
syn: listless
ant: robust
Unit Sixteen
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Latin DOLERE “to feel pain, to be grieved”

208. DOL
DOLEFUL
You can tell by Greg’s constantly doleful expression that he has a
gloomy nature.
adj. Sad; mournful
syn: depressed
ant: cheerful
Unit Sixteen
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Latin DOLERE “to feel pain, to be grieved”

209. DOL
DOLOROUS
The dolorous chanting of the monks was made even sadder by the
steady, gray rain.
adj. Mournful; gloomy
syn: bleak
ant: uplifting
Unit Sixteen
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Latin DOLERE “to feel pain, to be grieved”

210. ACRI
ACERBIC
Cal’s acerbic reply to the reporters earned him a reputation as an ill-
tempered man.
adj. Harsh and biting in tone
L. acerbus (from acer) sharp, biting
syn: sharp
ant: bland
Unit Sixteen
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Latin ACER “sharp”

211. ACRI
ACRID
The acrid fumes that filled the office soon had us coughing and
rubbing our eyes.
adj. Stinging or biting in odor or taste; harsh; irritating
Unit Sixteen
ACK!!! RID us of that ACRID odor!!Back to Table of Contents
Latin ACER “sharp”

212. ACRI
ACRIMONIOUS
The acrimonious debate between the two candidates did not help either
one in the polls.
adj. Exhibiting harsh sharpness in speech or mood
L. acer, “sharp,” + mony, “quality of” = having a sharp, bitter quality
syn: bitter
ant: civil
Unit Sixteen
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Latin ACER “sharp”

213. ACRI
EXACERBATE
Mira’s comments, which were supposed to be helpful, only
exacerbated Shelley’s problem.
v. To make worse or more severe
L. ex, “out of,” + acer = to make (something) harsher out of
syn: aggravate
ant: ease
Unit Sixteen
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Latin ACER “sharp”

214. FERV
FERVENT
Grace, a fervent supporter of the Democratic Party, cheered
enthusiastically when her favorite candidate was elected.
adj. Passionately excited or enthusiastic
syn: fiery
ant: indifferent
Unit Sixteen
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Latin FERVERE “to boil, be warm”

215. FERV
FERVOR
The fervor Ron displays when discussing cars lets me know he’ll
make a great mechanic.
n. Emotional excitement; heated enthusiasm
syn: eagerness
ant: apathy
Unit Sixteen
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Latin FERVERE “to boil, be warm”

216. FERV
EFFERVESCENT
The young horse had a cheerful, almost effervescent character.
adj. Highly spirited; animated
L. ex, “out of,” + fervere = boiling out of
syn: bubbly
ant: lifeless
Unit Sixteen
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Latin FERVERE “to boil, be warm”

217. UNIT SEVENTEEN
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218. PUT
IMPUTE
The car’s manufacturer imputed the steering problems to faulty
tires.
v. To assign blame or responsibility for
L. in, “on, against” + putare = to think against
syn: attribute
ant: vindicate
Unit Seventeen
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Latin PUTARE, PUTATUM “to think”

219. PUT
DISPUTE
1. Lisa disputed my claim that she was always late; in fact, she said, she
was usually early.
2. The city council was divided by the dispute over sales taxes.
1. v. To disagree with; 2. n. A disagreement
or argument
L. dis, “apart,” + putare = to think apart
syn: 1. deny; 2. argument
ant: 1. agree; 2. agreement
Unit Seventeen
Clute’s DISPUTE over falling leaves
was solved with a chainsaw.Back to Table of Contents
Latin PUTARE, PUTATUM “to think”

220. PUT
DISREPUTABLE
The disreputable doctor allowed his patients to go for months or years
without treatment.
adj. Not respectable; having a bad reputation
L. dis, “bad,” + re, “again,” + putare = thought badly of again and again
syn: notorious
ant: respectable
Unit Seventeen
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Latin PUTARE, PUTATUM “to think”

221. NOTA
CONNOTATION
I fully understand the negative connotation of the word you used to
describe me.
n. An image or idea associated with a word
L. con, “together with,” + notatum = noted with
syn: overtone
Unit Seventeen
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Latin NOTARE, NOTATUM “to note”

222. NOTA
DENOTATION
In order to grasp the denotation of the word, I looked it up in several
dictionaries.
n. The dictionary definition of a word
L. de, “down,” + notare = noted from
Unit Seventeen
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Latin NOTARE, NOTATUM “to note”

223. NOTA
ANNOTATE
The difficult book would have attracted more readers if the author
had decided to annotate it.
v. To explain or discuss through a note
L. ad, “towards,” + notare = noted upon
Unit Seventeen
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Latin NOTARE, NOTATUM “to note”

224. RATIO
IRRATIONAL
As a child, Christopher was teased for his irrational fear of water.
adj. Not based on reason or logic
L. in, “not,” + ratio = (having) no reason
syn: illogical
ant: reasonable, rational
Unit Seventeen
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Latin RATIO “reason”

225. RATIO
RATIONALE
What rationale does the author provide for designing the book this way?
n. A reason for doing something; explanation
Unit Seventeen
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Latin RATIO “reason”

226. RATIO
RATIONALIZE
I tried my best to rationalize spending so much money on one piece
of furniture.
v. Justify; give reason for
syn: excuse
Unit Seventeen
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Latin RATIO “reason”

227. SCI
CONSCIENTIOUS
Rebecca was a conscientious student and a leader in several school
clubs.
adj. Diligent and careful
L. com, “with,” + scire = in accordance with knowledge
ant: careless
Unit Seventeen
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Latin SCIRE “to know”

228. SCI
UNCONSCIONABLE
The current administration’s repeal of environmental laws has been called
unconscionable by many naturalists.
adj. Not obeying moral laws; unscrupulous
L. un, “not,” + con, “with,” + scire = not in accordance with knowledge
ant: principled
Unit Seventeen
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Latin SCIRE “to know”

229. SCI
PRESCIENT
The baseball coach made some decisions that now seem amazingly
prescient.
adj. Showing knowledge of events before they happen
L. pre, “in advance,” + scire = to know in advance
syn: far-sighted
ant: rash
Unit Seventeen
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Latin SCIRE “to know”

230. UNIT EIGHTEEN
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231. AES
AESTHETIC
The statue has an aesthetic value that will last far beyond our own time.
adj. Having to do with beauty or order
syn: artistic
Unit Eighteen
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Greek AESTHESIS “feeling, perception”

232. AES
ANESTHETIC
The doctor administered an anesthetic before operating on the
patient’s foot.
n. A substance which causes loss of feeling
G. an, “without,” + aesthesis = without feeling
Unit Eighteen
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Greek AESTHESIS “feeling, perception”

233. PATH
APATHETIC
The speaker tried to rally the crowd, but most of the people present
were apathetic.
adj. Not interested; having no strong emotion towards
G. a, “not,” + pathein = having no feeling
syn: indifferent
Unit Eighteen
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Greek PATHEIN “to feel”

234. PATH
EMPATHY
Nelly was divided between feeling empathy for her boss and
concern about her own future at the company.
n. Sharing of another’s emotions
G. em, “inside,” + pathos = feel from inside
syn: compassion
ant: opposition
Unit Eighteen
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Greek PATHEIN “to feel”

235. PATH
PATHOS
The sheer pathos of the opera’s final scene left the audience in tears.
n. Power of evoking great sadness or sympathy
syn: pitifulness
Unit Eighteen
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Greek PATHEIN “to feel”

236. PATH
ANTIPATHY
The fans’ antipathy for the coach increased when he lost the game.
adj. Hostility or hatred
G. anti, “against,” + pathein = feeling against
syn: dislike
ant: sympathy
Unit Eighteen
AUNTIE PATTY felt strong ANTIPATHY
towards anyone who cheated at cards.Back to Table of Contents
Greek PATHEIN “to feel”

237. SENS, SENT
SENTIENT
Do you think there are other sentient beings in the universe?
adj. Conscious; aware
ant: unaware
Unit Eighteen
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Latin SENTIRE, SENSUM “to feel, to be aware”

238. SENS, SENT
SENTINEL
George was posted as sentinel over the camp.
n. One who watches or guards
L. literally, one being aware
Unit Eighteen
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Latin SENTIRE, SENSUM “to feel, to be aware”

239. SENS, SENT
SENTIMENT
Although Vinnie expressed his sincere love for Sandra, she did not
return the sentiment.
n. A feeling about something
syn: attitude
Unit Eighteen
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Latin SENTIRE, SENSUM “to feel, to be aware”

240. SENS, SENT
PRESENTIMENT
I had an uneasy presentiment about the party that evening.
n. A feeling about something before it happens
L. pre, “before,” + sentire = feeling before
syn: foreboding
Unit Eighteen
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Latin SENTIRE, SENSUM “to feel, to be aware”

241. TANG, TACT
TANGIBLE
The rewards of volunteering may not be as tangible as a new car or
a new house, but they are just as real.
adj. Able to be grasped or perceived
syn: concrete
ant: abstract
Unit Eighteen
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Latin TANGERE, TACTUM “to touch”

242. TANG, TACT
TACTILE
The poet uses tactile imagery to give his reader the feeling of rough
boards and damp sand.
adj. Pertaining to touch
Unit Eighteen
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Latin TANGERE, TACTUM “to touch”

243. TANG, TACT
INTACT
Amazingly, the vase was intact even after rolling to the bottom of
the hill.
adj. Unbroken; whole
L. in, “not,” + tactum = not touched
syn: unharmed
Unit Eighteen
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Latin TANGERE, TACTUM “to touch”

244. UNIT NINETEEN
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245. QUIS
INQUISITIVE
Being a somewhat inquisitive child, Marian was inclined to ask
questions that were difficult to answer.
adj. Curious; asking many questions
L. in, “in,” + quisitum = seeking into
ant: uninterested
Unit Nineteen
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Latin QUAERERE, QUISITUM “ask, seek, demand”

246. QUIS
ACQUISITIVE
The property was purchased by an acquisitive businesswoman who
already owned much of the surrounding land.
adj. Seeking to get things; greedy
L. ad, “toward,” + quisitum = seeking towards
syn: demanding
ant: generous
Unit Nineteen
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Latin QUAERERE, QUISITUM “ask, seek, demand”

247. QUIS
REQUISITION
1. The army issued another requisition for backup troops and food
supplies.
2. The lieutenant had requisitioned several horses for backup troops and
food supplies.
1. n. Act of ordering or demanding something; 2. v. to make a request or
demand
L. re, “again,” + quisitum = demand again
Unit Nineteen
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Latin QUAERERE, QUISITUM “ask, seek, demand”

248. SPOND, SPOUSE
ESPOUSE
Although he espouses the right of free speech, Kenneth doesn’t like
to listen to me.
v. To support; pledge support to
syn: advocate
ant: criticize
Unit Nineteen
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Latin SPONDERE, SPONSUM “pledge, show support for”

249. SPOND, SPOUSE
CORRESPOND
The scientist showed us how a bone in the dolphin corresponded to
a bone in the human.
v. To be similar to; compare to
L. con, “together with,” + spondere = support back with
syn: match
ant: differ
Unit Nineteen
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Latin SPONDERE, SPONSUM “pledge, show support for”

250. SPOND, SPOUSE
DESPONDENT
When Leah lost her job and then her house, she became despondent.
adj. Lacking all hope
L. de, “down,” + spondere = having
pledged away (hope)
syn: despairing
ant: joyful
Unit Nineteen
The DESPONDENT CORRESPONDENT
could not get an interview with the actress.Back to Table of Contents
Latin SPONDERE, SPONSUM “pledge, show support for”

251. ROG
INTERROGATE
Though the detectives formally interrogated the butler twice, his
story remained the same.
v. To formally question
L. inter, “between,” + rogare = question between regular intervals
syn: grill
Unit Nineteen
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Latin ROGARE, ROGATUM “to ask, demand”

252. ROG
DEROGATORY
Boomer and Buzz, hosts of the morning talk show, were criticized
for making derogatory comments about a certain political figure.
adj. Insulting; degrading
L. de, “down,” + rogare = seeking to take down
syn: belittling
ant: complimentary
Unit Nineteen
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Latin ROGARE, ROGATUM “to ask, demand”

253. ROG
ARROGANT
It was arrogant of Philip to suggest that he could tutor the rest of the
class in math.
adj. Excessively proud; haughty
L. ad, “towards,” + rogare = demanding from
syn: conceited
ant: humble
Unit Nineteen
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Latin ROGARE, ROGATUM “to ask, demand”

254. ROG
ABROGATE
If one country decides to abrogate the treaty, the other country will
start a war.
v. To cancel; to repeal
L. ab, “from,” + rogare = to seek away from
syn: abolish
ant: ratify
Unit Nineteen
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Latin ROGARE, ROGATUM “to ask, demand”

255. PREC
PRECARIOUS
Cindy was in a precarious position on the old bridge; no matter
which way she stepped, it looked like she would fall.
adj. Threatened or unsafe
L. literally, praying (for one’s safety)
syn: risky
ant: safe
Unit Nineteen
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Latin PREX, PRECIS “prayer”

256. PREC
IMPRECATION
The holy man called down an imprecation upon the murderous king.
v. A curse
L. in, “against,” + precis = a prayer against
ant: blessing
Unit Nineteen
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Latin PREX, PRECIS “prayer”

257. PREC
DEPRECATE
Your novel may not be perfect, but you shouldn’t deprecate the
work you have done so far.
v. To show disapproval of
L. de, “off, away” + precis = to pray away from
syn: belittle
ant: praise
Unit Nineteen
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Latin PREX, PRECIS “prayer”

258. UNIT TWENTY
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259. MON
ADMONITION
The judge released me with the admonition to stay away from
people who got me into trouble.
n. Gentle scolding
L. ad, “toward,” + monitum = warning toward
syn: chiding
Unit Twenty
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Latin MONERE, MONITUM “to warn”

260. MON
PREMONITION
Although I had a premonition that the day would go badly, I stepped
onto the plane.
n. A vision; a warning of something before it happens
L. pre, “before,” + monitum = warning before
syn: foreboding, forewarning
Unit Twenty
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Latin MONERE, MONITUM “to warn”

261. CONSIL
COUNSEL
1. The farmer’s brother counseled him to sell the farm and move to the
city.
2. The lottery winners will seek the counsel of a lawyer before revealing
their identities.
1. v. To advise; make a suggestion to; 2. n. Advice
syn: encourage
ant: discourage
Unit Twenty
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Latin CONCILIARE, “bring together” CONSILIUM, “advice”

262. CONSIL
CONCILIATORY
In a conciliatory gesture, Judith offered to give her medal to her opponent.
adj. Intended to lessen another’s anger
syn: appeasing
ant: defiant, aggressive
Unit Twenty
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Latin CONCILIARE, “bring together” CONSILIUM, “advice”

263. CONSIL
RECONCILE
Dawn tried to reconcile two of her friends who were fighting.
v. To bring back into agreement
L. re, “back,” + consiliare = to bring back together
syn: harmonize
ant: upset
Unit Twenty
The warring CROCODILES finally RECONCILED.Back to Table of Contents
Latin CONCILIARE, “bring together” CONSILIUM, “advice”

264. CAUT
PRECAUTION
I have never been in an accident, but I always wear my seatbelt as a
precaution.
n. An action taken against danger ahead of time
L. pre, “before,” cautum = be careful before
Unit Twenty
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Latin CAVEO, CAUTUM “to be careful”

265. CAUT
CAUTIOUS
After a series of major financial scandals, investors are usually more
cautious.
adj. Careful not to get into danger
syn: prudent
Unit Twenty
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Latin CAVEO, CAUTUM “to be careful”

266. Unit Twenty
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CAUT
CAUTIONARY
The minister told us a cautionary tale about the dangers of vanity.
adj. Intended to serve as a warning
Latin CAVEO, CAUTUM “to be careful”

267. SUAD
DISSUADE
No matter how I tried, I could not dissuade Vince from going into
the haunted house.
v. To convince one not to do something
L. dis, “not,” + suasum = advise not to
syn: discourage
ant: persuade
Unit Twenty
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Latin SUADERE, SUASUM “advise”

268. SUAD
PERSUASION
I certainly know people who love all kinds of sports, although I am
not of that persuasion.
n. Habit or type
syn: camp
Unit Twenty
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Latin SUADERE, SUASUM “advise”

269. UNIT TWENTY-ONE
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270. GUST
GUSTO
The hungry children dug into the delicious spaghetti with great gusto.
n. Enthusiastic enjoyment
syn: relish
ant: dislike
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin GUSTUS, “taste”

271. GUST
GUSTATORY
Gene thanked the waiter for the best gustatory experience of his life.
adj. Having to do with the sense of taste
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin GUSTUS, “taste”

272. SIP, SAP
INSIPID
Wendy quickly tired of her sister’s insipid conversation.
adj. Dull; uninteresting
L. in, “not,” + sapere = having no taste
syn: colorless
ant: intriguing
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin SAPERE, “to taste”

273. SIP, SAP
SAPIENT
Human beings have long thought themselves the only sapient beings
on planet Earth.
adj. Having knowledge; wise
syn: conscious
ant: unthinking
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin SAPERE, “to taste”

274. AV
AVID
Stan was such an avid fan of the team that he called in sick rather
than miss the big game.
adj. Enthusiastic; eager
syn: devoted
ant: uninterested
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin AVERE, “to crave, to desire”

275. AV
AVARICE
Nelson’s avarice led him to make risky decisions on behalf of the
company.
n. Desire for wealth; greed
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin AVERE, “to crave, to desire”

276. BIB
IMBIBE
Spanish merchants, having imbibed the culture of their Middle
Eastern trading partners, brought new customs back to Spain.
v. Drink; soak up
L. in, “into,” + bibere = drink in
syn: absorb
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin BIBERE, “to drink”

277. BIB
BIBULOUS
When I asked how the party was going, Chuck gave me a bibulous grin.
adj. Drunken
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin BIBERE, “to drink”

278. GLUT
GLUT
The glut of similar-sounding songs on the radio station drove
listeners to change the channel.
n. Too much of something; oversupply
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin GLUTTIRE, “to devour”

279. GLUT
GLUTTON
Anyone who eats as much turkey as Sheila did is a glutton in my opinion.
n. One who wants or takes too much (especially food or drink)
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin GLUTTIRE, “to devour”

280. PALAT
PALATE
Although many people like the music of Mozart, it does not suit my palate.
n. Taste or liking
syn: appetite
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin PALATUM, “palate”

281. PALAT
PALATABLE
I found the actor’s impressions palatable, but I wouldn’t recommend
him for any awards.
adj. Acceptable; satisfactory
syn: tolerable
ant: unbearable
Unit Twenty-One
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Latin PALATUM, “palate”

282. UNIT TWENTY-TWO
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283. RANC
RANCID
After the power outage, we were forced to throw out three bottles of
rancid milk.
adj. Rotten; spoiled
syn: soured
ant: fresh
Unit Twenty-Two
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Latin RANCERE, “to stink”

284. RANC
RANCOR
The rancor between the two businesses was only deepened by
disagreement over the new law.
n. Bitterness; hostility
syn: enmity
ant: friendliness
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Latin RANCERE, “to stink”

285. PUTR
PUTREFY
The soldiers had to bury the bodies quickly so that they would not
putrefy in the hot sun.
v. To rot; to decompose
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Latin PUTRIS, “rotten”

286. PUTR
PUTRID
The walls of the cave were covered with slime, and the air was filled
with the stench of something putrid.
adj. Rotten; suggesting decomposition
syn: rancid
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Latin PUTRIS, “rotten”

287. STAGN
STAGNANT
The stagnant air of the marsh was blamed for many illnesses.
adj. Unhealthy because of lack of movement
syn: sluggish
ant: invigorating
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Latin STAGNARE, “to stagnate, form a pool of standing water”

288. STAGN
STAGNATE
Marcia was afraid that she would stagnate in the unchallenging
atmosphere of the office, but she actually found many opportunities
to be creative.
v. To stop moving or growing; to become unhealthy because of lack
of movement
syn: vegetate
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Latin STAGNARE, “to stagnate, form a pool of standing water”

289. ODOR
MALODOROUS
Joelle could hardly bear to be in the room when her father opened
the package of malodorous cheese.
adj. Foul-smelling
L. malus, “bad” + olere = bad-smelling
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Latin ODOR, “smell”

290. ODOR
ODORIFEROUS
The herbal medicine smells strong because it is made of a
combination of odoriferous plants.
adj. Giving off an odor
L. odor + ferre, “to bear, carry” = odor-bearing
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Latin ODOR, “smell”

291. OL
OLFACTORY
The olfactory ability of the average bloodhound makes it far better
than a human being at following a scent.
adj. Having to do with the sense of smell
L. olere + facere, “to make or do” = ability to smell
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Latin OLERE, “to smell”

292. OL
REDOLENT
I found the poet’s essays redolent of the first days of the revolution.
adj. Suggesting; carrying the hint of
L. re, “back,” + olere = bringing the odor back
syn: reminiscent
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Latin OLERE, “to smell”

293. FET
FETID
The fetid stench of rotting fish rose from the polluted stream.
adj. Having an unpleasant smell
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Latin FETERE, “to stink”