Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 1
The following words begin with the Latin prefix ob- (“up against, in the way”) and are built on bases that
have been presented in Levels 3–9 of Building Vocabulary:
obfuscate
to confuse and confound; to make more complicated; literally, to throw “murky
smoke” “up against” an onlooker to keep him from seeing clearly
oblation
a religious offering that is “brought, borne” “up against” the church or to a deity
observant
watchful, alert, careful; literally, “keeping” a close watch “up against” something
observation
close attention to something; an insight or remark that results from “keeping” a close
watch “up against” something and studying it
observe
to monitor, to watch closely, to supervise; literally, to “keep” a close watch “up against”
something
obsession
a preoccupation or persistent fear that lays siege to you (by “sitting” “up against” you);
from the Roman military practice of laying siege to the enemy by “sitting” with troops
“up against” city walls and creating a blockade
obstruct
to impede, to block progress by “building” something “in the way”
obtain
to acquire, to come into possession of; literally, to “hold” “up against” oneself as
a possession
occlude
to close or shut a passage; to bring together (as in upper and lower teeth “closing”
“up against” each other in a “bite” or occlusion); a defective or irregular occlusion is
called a malocclusion
occur
happen, take place; literally, to “run” “up against”
offer
to give, to donate, to provide; literally, to “bear, bring” something “up against” a recipient
opponent
rival, challenger; one who “places” himself “up against, in the way of” a rival
oppose
to resist, challenge, or combat by “placing” oneself “in the way, up against” a rival
or opponent
Here are some more academic words beginning with ob-, with a meaning of “up against, in the way”:
obdurate
stubborn; resisting correction or persuasion; literally, displaying a tough and “hard”
(Latin dur = “hard”) defiance “up against” attempts to induce change or improvement
obligation
a duty or requirement; literally, a responsibility that is “binding” (Latin lig- = “bind”) “up
against” a person
obloquy
slander; malicious comments “spoken” (Latin loqu = “speak, talk”) “up against”
a person
obnoxious
offensive and annoying; drawing negative attention; literally, bringing “harm” or offense
“up against” bystanders
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 1 (cont.)
obsequious
fawning, slavishly obedient; literally, “following” (Latin sequ- = “follow”) “up against”
one’s master or superior and catering to his or her every need
obstreperous
strident, clamorous, raucous; literally, “screeching” (Latin strep- = “screech, scream”)
“up against” one’s ears
obtrude
to force or “push” (Latin trud-, trus- = “push, thrust”) opinions or advice “up against”
an unwilling listener
obtrusive
thrusting out, protruding; literally, “thrust upon” someone
obtuse
(in geometry, of “angles”) larger than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees; (in
non-specialized contexts) mentally dull; (the base of this word is Latin tus, which
means “beat, pound, hammer”); an obtuse angle is an (originally right) angle
“hammered” out to a wider degree; an obtuse person is “dull,” just as a sharp edge is
blunted and dulled by pounding “up against” objects
obvious
clear and evident for all to see; literally, standing or occurring “up against” one’s “road,
way, path” (Latin vi- = “road, way, path”)
Occident
the Western Hemisphere; literally, the hemisphere in which the setting sun “falls” “up
against” the horizon; contrasted with the Orient, the land of the “rising” (Latin ori- =
“rise, arise”) sun
Occidental
western; pertaining to the Western Hemisphere (as opposed to “Oriental”)
oppress
to subjugate and keep down a victim or subject; to subject to misery; literally, to
“press” “up against” someone with overwhelming force
oppressive
stifling, overpowering; literally, “pressing” “up against” someone and causing misery
Intensifying ob-. The following words begin with the prefix ob- with its intensifying meaning of “completely,
totally”:
obese
extremely corpulent or overweight; literally, “over” “fed”
obliterate
to “totally” wipe out; efface
oblivion
the state of being “totally” forgotten by the world; also, the state of “complete”
unawareness and disregard
oblivious
“totally” unaware, forgetful
obsolete
fallen into “complete” disuse; outmoded
occult
mysterious; secretive; supernatural
Unit I, Lesson 2
The following words beginning with the prefix dis-, di-, dif- have a directional meaning of “apart, in different
directions”:
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 2 (cont.)
diffraction
the “breaking” (Latin fract- = “break”) “apart” of light rays into the colors of the
spectrum; the apparent “breaking” “apart” of the straight line of an opaque object
when it is placed in water or other diffracting medium
diffuse
rambling and wordy; literally, “spilling” (Latin fund-, fus- = “pour, spill”) “in
different directions”
digress
to wander from the main topic; to make an aside; literally, to “step” “apart” from
the topic
digression
a wandering from the topic; a side comment
discursive
rambling and unorganized (use of language and thoughts); literally, “running” “in
different directions”
dismember
to divide limb by limb; to separate into different parts; literally, to take “apart” the
“members” of a body
dismiss
to release; to allow to leave; to disregard as insignificant; literally, to “send” “in different
directions” and let go
disperse
to scatter; to go or drive in different directions; literally, to “scatter” “apart”
dispute
(noun) a disagreement or quarrel; literally, a “thinking” (Latin put- = “think,” as in
“compute”) “in different directions” by two or more parties; (verb) to challenge, to
disagree with
disseminate
to spread or scatter (especially information); literally, to scatter “seed” (Latin semin- =
“seed that is sown”) “in different directions”
dissension
openly expressed disagreement
dissent
to disagree; literally, to have “thoughts, feelings” (Latin sent, sens = think, feel) “apart”
from others
dissolute
morally lax; literally, having morals that are “loosened” “apart”
dissolve
to melt; to break up a connection or bond; literally, to “break, loosen” (Latin solv- =
“loosen, free”) “apart”
distended
stretched out of shape; large and swollen; literally, “stretched” (Latin tens- = “stretch,
thin”) “in different directions”
distort
to misrepresent; to warp; to pervert; literally, to “twist” (Latin tort- = “twist”) out of
shape and “in different directions”
distortion
a misrepresentation; a warped image or account of something that “twists” the
original “in different directions” and out of shape
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 2 (cont.)
distraught
upset; overwhelmed by grief or worry; literally, “pulled” (Latin tract- = “pull, draw,
drag”) “apart” by anxiety and concern; the opposite of distraught is composed, which
means “put together and collected”
diverse
differing; having variety
diversity
variety; difference in kind or characteristics; literally, “turned” (Latin vers-, vert- =
“turn”) “in different directions”
divest
to strip of office or power; to remove from office; literally, to cast the robes or
“clothing” (Latin vest- = “clothes, garment”) of an office “apart” from the wearer; the
prefix of this word also has a negative force, since to divest is to “unclothe”
divulge
to reveal, disclose; literally, to spread “in different directions” to “the masses” (Latin
vulg- = “the masses; the common people,” as in vulgar)
The following words beginning with the prefix dis-, di-, dif- have a negative meaning from this prefix that
means “not”:
diffidence
lack of confidence
diffident
lacking confidence; “not” having “faith” in oneself or in an outcome
disconsolate
“not” able to be “consoled,” as in disconsolate grief
discordant
inharmonious, clashing, conflicting; literally, “not” of one “heart” (Latin cord- = “heart”)
disinter
to exhume; to “un” bury a body that has been “interred” (Latin in- = “in”;
base terr = “earth”)
disinterested
fair and impartial; not swayed by personal interests; literally, “not” having “interests”
invested in an outcome
disjointed
disconnected; choppy; literally, “not” expressing well-“joined” thoughts or words
disparity
a lack of equality or parity; state of “not” being “on par”
dispassionate
calm and reasoned; unbiased; “not” affected by “passions” or emotions
dispirited
lacking in spirit; unenthusiastic; literally, “not” “spirited”
Unit I, Lesson 3
Here are some “basic” definitions of words that begin with the Greek prefix a-, an- (“alpha-privative”). The
meaning of “without, not” is clear in the following words:
abysmal
extremely low; dismal, deplorable, immeasurably hopeless; literally, having “no”
“bottom” in misery or wretchedness
abyss
a “bottomless” pit
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 3 (cont.)
acephalous
“without” a “head” (Greek cephal = “head”); lacking a governing head of state (e.g., an
acephalous church does not belong to an archdiocese that oversees it)
agnostic
a doubter of the divine; one who claims “not” to “know” whether God exists
amnesia
memory loss
amnesty
general pardon or declaration of forgiveness, especially one issued by a governing
authority; this word is cognate with amnesia
amoral
non-moral; neither moral nor immoral; lacking ethical standards
amorphous
shapeless; having no discernible shape or form
analgesic
(adj.) reducing pain; (noun) a pain reducer
anarchy
chaos; absence of a ruler or leader
anecdotal
orally transmitted, rather than written; having the characteristics of an anecdote
anecdote
a short, often humorous, narrative; originally, a “not” published story (see Did You Know?)
anemia
blood condition in which there are “not” sufficient red “blood” cells
anemic
suffering from anemia; pale, dull, lifeless
anesthesia
“loss of” bodily “sensation, feeling”
anesthetic
causing “loss of” bodily “sensation, feeling”
anomalous
abnormal, inconsistent, dissimilar; “not” “like” others in its class
anomaly
irregularity, deviation from the rule; a “lack of” “similarity”
anonymity
namelessness
anonymous
“nameless,” from an unnamed source
apathetic
indifferent; not caring
apathy
indifference; lack of interest or concern; literally, “no” “feeling”
aphasia
loss of the ability to communicate, especially in speech or writing
atheism
denial of God’s existence; belief that there is “no” “God”
atheist
a denier of God; one who believes there is “no” “God”
atom
an essential, indivisible unit of matter; a tiny particle, originally believed to
be “not-cuttable”
atrophy
(noun) the wasting away of a body part, literally, due to “no” “nourishment, feeding,
growth”; (verb) to waste away; to wither or degenerate
atypical
not typical; unusual
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 4
The following words begin with the prefix para- conveying the directional force of “alongside” in a variety of
nuances:
parable
a short fictional story that applies to a real situation “put” (Greek -ble = “put, throw”)
“alongside” it; an allegory
paradigm
a model or sample; literally, a “side” “sample” that shows a pattern for emulation; (in
language arts) a model noun, verb, or adjective that teaches a consistent pattern of
declension or conjugation
paragraph
distinct portion of a written or printed text, marked by indentation, expressing a
unified and coherent thought or idea; originally, an editor’s mark “written” in the
margin “alongside” the text (see Did You Know?)
paralegal
an assistant who works “alongside” a “lawyer”
parallel
(in mathematics) running “alongside” “one another” and
never intersecting
paramedic
an assistant who works “alongside” “doctors,” often assisting in emergencies
parameter
(in mathematics) a variable that enters (i.e., comes from the “side”) into an equation
and affects the outcome
parameters
the outer limits or “side” “measures” that establish the area in which an activity can
take place
paramour
an illicit “lover” kept “on the side” (usually by a married man)
paraphernalia
equipment, apparatus, or personal belongings; originally, the dowry “brought”
“alongside” a bride in ancient Greek weddings (see Did You Know?)
paraphrase
to state in different words; literally, to write a summary in the margin “alongside” the
main text or “phrase, statement” (see Did You Know?)
parapsychology
an offshoot or “side” product of psychology dealing with the occult
parasite
an organism that feeds off a host; literally, an organism that takes “food” “from the
side” of the host; the adjectival form of this word is parasitic
parentheses
punctuation marks “in” (Greek prefix en- = “in”) which words or sentences are
“placed” (Greek thes = “put, place”) “on the side” (Greek prefix para-) of the
main sentence
parenthetic
expressed as a side statement
parody
a humorous imitation or satire; literally, the offshoot “from the side” of an
original “song”
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 4 (cont.)
The following words begin with the prefix para- and use the prefix with its meaning of “contrary”:
paradox
a self-contradictory statement that may be true; literally, a statement that runs
“contrary” to normal “thought”
paralysis
the inability to move
paralyze
to render immobile; literally, to render immobile with a “contrary” “loosening” of the
connection between the brain signals and muscles of the body
paranoia
mental disorder; literally, a “contrary” “mind” marked by feelings of persecution
paranormal
not explicable by science or reason; literally, “contrary” to “normal”
Unit I, Lesson 5
There are far too many words ending in -ism or -ist, and -ology or -ologist to list them all. Here are some
selected words that students might encounter in high school level study.
The meaning of “belief” or “one who believes” is clear in the following words that end in -ism and -ist:
activism
“belief” in vigorous “action” to bring about political and social change; one who
promotes activism is an activist (as in “social activists” and “political activists”)
capitalism
“belief” that businesses and corporations should invest their own money or “capital”
to generate jobs that will benefit the people and to generate personal profit
for investors
chauvinism
blind and excessive patriotism; arrogant conviction in one’s own superiority by virtue
of race, national, or gender (as in “male chauvinism”); literally, “belief in
the position of Nicolas Chauvin” (see Did You Know?); a practitioner of chauvinism
is a chauvinist
communism
political philosophy opposed to private ownership of property and instead promoting
“communal” ownership; literally, “belief” in “communal or common” ownership; one
who so believes is a communist
fascism
political system in which power is centralized in a dictator and in which force is used
to quell opposition; literally, “belief in” the “fasces” that symbolize state power (see
Did You Know?); one who so believes is a fascist
fatalism
passive attitude founded in the “belief” that “fate” has predetermined everything
and that all efforts to effect change are futile; a proponent of fatalism is a fatalist; the
adjectival form of this word is fatalistic
feudalism
a social and political organizational system (associated with Medieval Europe) in which
vassals live on a lord’s land for a “fee” and work the estate in exchange for military
protection; literally, “belief in the fee”
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 5 (cont.)
hedonism
a philosophy that upholds pleasure as the goal of life; literally, “belief” in “pleasure
(Greek hedon- = “pleasure”); a proponent of hedonism is called a hedonist; the adjectival
form of this word is hedonistic (a hedonistic lifestyle)
humanism
“belief” in the dignity and worth of “human” beings and their capacity to achieve
greatness; a proponent of humanism is a humanist
jingoism
extreme chauvinism or nationalism, often marked by an aggressive foreign policy. One
who advocates jingoism is a jingoist; the adjectival form of this word is jingoistic (as in
jingoistic rhetoric); these words originate in the refrain of a song mocking Nicolas
Chauvin with his repetition of “By Jingo!” (see Did You Know?)
optimism
hopeful or positive belief in the “best” outcome (Latin optim- = “best”); an advocate of
optimism is an optimist; the adjectival form of this word is optimistic
pessimism
despondent or negative belief in the “worst” possible outcome (Latin pessim- =
“worst”); an advocate of pessimism is a pessimist; the adjectival form of this
word is pessimistic
plagiarism
illicit copying of another’s written words without citation and presenting them as
one’s own; a person who commits plagiarism is a plagiarist (See Did You Know? for the
etymology of this word and its original association with Roman hunting nets.)
populist
originally, a member of a U.S. political party founded in 1891 to represent farmers
and empower the government to break up monopolies; literally, “a believer in the
people;” the doctrines promoted by the populists constitute populism; in modern
usage, populism aims to use government to serve “the common people” instead
of businesses, corporations, and the wealthy few; in the history of these words, the
term populist arose first, as the name for members of the new party; the views they
expounded were subsequently called populism
socialism
political philosophy that “believes” that government should provide certain essential
services to “society;” one who so believes is a socialist
Here are some “basic” definitions of words ending in Greek -ology and -ologist. The meaning of either “the
study of” or “one who studies” is clear in the following words:
archeology
“study of” the physical remains and ruins of the “ancient” past; a specialist in
archeology is an archeologist
chronology
the arrangement of events in the order of their occurrence over time; literally, the
“study of” “time” (Greek base chron = “time,” as in chronic and synchronize)
etymology
“study of” the original and “true meaning” of words (Greek base etym = “true
meaning”); a specialist in etymology is an etymologist
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit I, Lesson 5 (cont.)
oncology
medical specialization in the “study of” “tumors” (Greek base onc = “tumor, massive
growth”); a specialist in oncology is an oncologist
ontology
a branch of metaphysics that “studies” the reason and purpose of “being, existing”
(Latin base ont = “being, existing”); the adjectival form of this word is ontological (as in
ontological speculation)
tautology
unnecessary repetition of a word or idea; definition of a word which repeats the word
being defined; literally, “study of” the “same” (Greek base taut = “same”); the statement,
“Happiness is the state of being happy,” is a tautology (a tautological definition)
teleology
belief that all beings exist for a specific purpose or end; literally, “study of” the “end”
(Greek base tel = “end”)
terminology
all the words and terms employed in a science, art, or other specialized discipline;
literally, “study of” the “terms” used in a discipline
theology
“study of” “God;” a specialist in theology is a theologian (theologist is a derivative)
Unit II, Lesson 6
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on sent, sens. The meaning of “think, feel” is clear in the
following words:
assent
(verb) agree to terms; (noun) agreement to terms
consensual
mutually agreed
consensus
agreement of a large group; e.g., consensus of opinion, general consensus
consent
(verb) grant permission or approval; (noun) permission or approval
desensitize
to render insensitive; to reduce sensation
dissension
openly expressed disagreement
dissent
difference of opinion from that of the main group
extrasensory
perception
the ability to perceive stimuli beyond the ordinary five senses
insensate
inanimate; not endowed with feeling; brutal, inhuman
multisensory
appealing to more than one of the five senses at the same time
presentiment
an ominous feeling that something will happen
resent
to harbor negative feelings, especially over a long time
resentment
long-held negative feelings; grudge
sensation
a sudden or strong feeling
sensational
arousing a strong emotional reaction
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit II, Lesson 6 (cont.)
sense
feeling, thought, or meaning; e.g., sense of shame, sense of touch, sense of humor
sensitize
to make sensitive
sensor
a device that detects (“feels”) physical stimuli and responds
sensual
indulging and gratifying the senses; worldly, fleshly
sentence
a coherent and logical expression of thought; a formally written punishment (e.g., life
sentence, death sentence, the sentencing of a convict)
sentient
endowed with thought and feeling; responsive and aware
sentiment
an emotional feeling
sentimental
emotional
sentry
a soldier keeping watch; also, sentinel
The words present (and the corresponding noun presence), absent (and the corresponding noun absence), and
essential (and the corresponding noun essence) are not based on Latin sent. These words are from the Latin
verb “to be” (esse). Thus, present means “being at hand or in front,” absent means “being away,” and essential
means “necessary for a thing’s being.” These three words have no connection with “thinking, feeling.”
Unit II, Lesson 7
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on duc, duct. The meaning of “lead” is clear in the
following words:
abduct
to kidnap; literally to “lead” “away”
adduce
to bring (“lead”) evidence in support of (“to”) a claim or position
aqueduct
structure designed to bring (“lead”) water into a populated area
conducive
producing a goal; leading to an end; this adjective is usually followed by the preposition
to; for example, “Good study habits are conducive to good grades.”
conduct
behavior we exhibit (i.e., how we “lead” ourselves) when we are “with” others
conductor
one who “leads” musicians “together” in a symphony or choir; (in science) a substance
(such as metal) that transmits heat or electricity
conduit
a passage for fluids
deduce
to conclude or infer, by “leading” a general premise “down” to a specific application
deduct
to subtract; to remove from a list of expenses or numbers
deduction
conclusion or inference; a reduction in number or price (a “markdown”)
deductive
following a logical process from premise to conclusion
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit II, Lesson 7 (cont.)
ductile
capable of being hammered thin and “led” into fine shapes; people who are susceptible
and easily influenced (“led”) by others
duke
a nobleman who leads a region called a duchy; the feminine form of duke is duchess;
ducat is a gold coin displaying a portrait of the regional duke
educate
to instruct, train, or teach; literally, to “lead” “out of” childhood
educe
to elicit; to bring a latent or hidden quality “out of” (Latin e-, ex- = “out of”)
induce
to persuade or “lead” a person “into” doing something; an inducement is an incentive;
in medicine, a doctor may induce labor by “leading” the woman “into” delivery with a
drug stimulant
induct
to admit into a group (e.g., induction into the army; to be inducted into the Hall of
Fame)
induction
a logical process that “leads” a number of specific instances “into” a broad conclusion;
such reasoning is inductive logic
introduce
to present formally; to bring (“lead”) someone or something new “inside” (Latin intro
= “inside, within”) the group
introduction
an initial meeting with someone new; the preliminary portion of a book designed to
“lead” the reader “inside” the main text
introductory
preliminary; serving to introduce (e.g., introductory remarks; introductory offers)
produce
(verb) to create or bring forth; (noun) the collective term for fruits and vegetables
“led” “forth” by Mother Earth
product
an item that has been manufactured or produced; “led” “forward” into existence
productive
generating results
reduce
to make smaller in size, bulk, or weight (literally, to “lead” “back” to a smaller state)
reduction
a making smaller (e.g., price reductions, a weight reduction program)
reductive
overly simplistic; diminishing the complexity of something (e.g., a reductive argument; a
reductive explanation of a complex text)
reproduce
to generate offspring; literally, to produce “again”
reproduction
a copy
seduce
to “lead” astray or “aside” (Latin se- = “aside”) with temptation or allurement; to
subject to moral corruption
seductive
tempting, alluring
seductress
an alluring but dangerous and morally corrupt woman
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit II, Lesson 7 (cont.)
traduce
to defame or malign someone’s reputation (originally, to subject to mockery and
degradation by “leading” military victims “across” the city in a triumphal procession)
viaduct
an overpass
Unit II, Lesson 8
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on pung, punct, point. The meaning of “pierce, point” is
clear in the following words:
acupuncture
a form of physical therapy that places needle “points” in strategic parts of the body
appoint
assign to a specific task or post (the prefix is assimilated Latin ad- = “to, toward, add
to”)
appointment
a scheduled meeting at a precise time; also, an assignment for a specific task
compunction
a strong feeling of regret or remorse
expunge
to obliterate; annihilate; delete
poignant
emotionally distressing; arousing keen feelings
pointer
a tip or small bit of advice; a stick used to point something out; a breed of dog that
“points” at game (such as birds or rabbits) sought by hunters
pun
a play on words; the origin of this word is uncertain, but some philologists derive it
from this base as meaning a “pointed” play on words
punch
to “pierce” a hole in; to strike with a closed fist
punctilio
a fine or petty point of conduct or procedure
punctilious
precise and finely detailed; attentive to fine points
punctual
precisely on time; “on the dot”
punctuality
promptness
punctuate
to make more “pointed” and obvious
punctuation
a system of marks or “points” inserted in a written text
puncture
to pierce with a small, sharp object
pungent
biting, acrid; sharp (of taste, smell, etc.); literally, “piercing” the senses with sharpness
or acidity
punt
to kick a dropped ball with a “pointed” foot or leg
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit II, Lesson 9
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on ject. The literal or figurative meaning of “throw, cast” is
clear in the following words:
abject
humiliating, servile, hopeless; literally, “cast” “away” by society (as in abject living
conditions, abject squalor, abject poverty)
adjectival
having the force or effect of an adjective
adjective
a modifying word placed (ject = “thrown”) next to (ad = “added to”) a noun
conjectural
guessing; surmising; offering a conjecture
(a) conjecture
an inference or estimate; literally, a conclusion based on “throwing” clues and evidence
“together” in a way that makes sense
(to) conjecture
to make an inference; to draw a tentative conclusion
dejected
sad, gloomy, “feeling downcast”
dejection
sadness, depression; a “downcast” mood
eject
to remove by force (to “throw” “out”)
ejection
removal by force or other action
inject
to insert, add
injection
(in medicine) administration by means of insertion through the skin (“a shot”)
interject
to add or interpose; to place words between the prepared parts of a text; to utter a
sudden cry
interjection
(in grammar) a sudden cry or exclamation
jet
device that propels air or water with great force
jettison
to hurl overboard; to toss cargo off a vessel
(an) object
a goal or aim; literally, the end “up against” which something is “thrown”; (in grammar)
a noun that receives the action of a verb
(to) object
to raise or voice opposition against
objection
a point of resistance or disapproval
objective
fair and impartial; not subject to personal tastes or preferences; not subjective
(a) project
an undertaking or plan of action laid out in advance
(to) project
to estimate, to forecast, based on current trends
projectile
moving ahead with force
projections
estimations of the future based on current trends
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit II, Lesson 9 (cont.)
projector
device that projects images on a screen
reject
to refuse; to cast out or “throw” away
rejection
a declaration of refusal
subject (to)
(adj.) susceptible to overlying forces (as in “weather conditions are subject to change”)
(a) subject
(in grammar) the foundational noun or pronoun that is the agent of the verb’s action;
a person under another’s control
(to) subject
to place under domination by another; to expose and make vulnerable
subjective
influenced by bias, prejudice, or personal circumstances; not objective
trajectory
the path followed by an airborne or water borne object
Unit II, Lesson 10
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on pel, peal, puls. The literal or figurative meaning of “push,
drive” is clear in the following words:
appeal
to summon or call to aid; to be attractive to (exerting a “drive, push” “to,” someone);
e.g., “The color red appeals to me. I find red an appealing color.”
appellant
one who appeals to a higher court; literally, one who “drives” a case “to” the next
level of judgment; e.g., court of appeals and the appellate system
compel
to coerce or force; literally, to exert a “very extreme” “push”
compelling
persuasive; “pushing” someone to agree “with” an argument
compulsion
a strong, irrational, and ongoing (“very” “driving”) urge to do something
compulsive
“very driven” by or acting on compulsion
dispel
to dismiss and scatter; to do away with
expel
to forcibly remove or “drive” “out”
expulsion
forced or compulsory removal from a group or area
impel
to inspire to do something; literally, to “drive” someone “into” an action
impulse
a strong and sudden urge that “pushes, drives” a person “into” an act
impulsive
acting on impulse; sudden, erratic
peal
a loud and prolonged sound (originally, the ringing of bells by the successive “pushing,
driving” of the clapper against the bell)
pellet
a cylindrical shape designed for being “pushed” or discharged through a tube
propel
to “drive” “forward” with a burst of force or power
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit II, Lesson 10 (cont.)
propulsion
a strong forward motion
pulsate
to throb or beat
pulse
the throbbing of arteries as the heart “pushes” blood through the body
repel
to drive or force back
repellent
(noun) substance that drives back unwanted things (e.g., insect repellent, a water
repellent); (adjective) causing distaste and “driving” people “back”
repulsive
extremely repellent; causing repugnance or strong aversion
Unit III, Lesson 11
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek poli, polis. The meaning of “city, citizen” is clear
in the following words, many of which refer to the technical aspects of governing:
apolitical
having no interest in politics; not motivated by political concerns (the prefix of this
word is Greek a-, “alpha-privative,” meaning “not”)
policy
a course or method of action followed in governance and management; a contract of
insurance that is legally binding (in a civil court)
politic
shrewd; expedient; judicious (i.e., characteristic of a politician)
politician
a person skilled in the art or science of governance
politics
the art or science of government
polity
a form of government; a constitution
Observe the “connecting o” in the following compound Greek-based words:
acropolis
the high part of a city or inhabited area
cosmopolis
a city advanced in refinement and fine living; literally, a “city” of the “world”
cosmopolitan
refined, sophisticated
cosmopolite
an exceptionally refined and worldly person; literally, a “citizen” of the “world”
megalopolis
an especially “large” “city”
metropolis
the chief or “mother” “city” of a region
metropolitan
characteristic of a metropolis
necropolis
an elaborate cemetery (“city” of the “dead”)
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Latin civ, cit. The meaning of “city, citizen” is clear in
the following words, many of which refer to people living together in community.
citadel
a fortress overlooking and protecting a “city”
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 11 (cont.)
civics
branch of social studies dealing with the rights and duties of citizens
civil
polite, courteous, respectful of others
civilian
a citizen, as distinct from a soldier; hence, civilian clothes
civilization
high level of cultural advancement associated with life in a “city”
civilize
educate, refine; to bring a state of cultural advancement
civil service
administrative branch of government dealing with urban areas and domestic citizens
(as opposed to the Armed Services)
incivility
rudeness; lack of manners; behavior “not” fitting a “citizen”
uncivil
rude and offensive; not sociable
Unit III, Lesson 12
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek graph, gram. The meaning of “write” is clear in
the following words, many of which refer to technical inventions, precision in measuring, or specialized kinds
of writing:
anagram
a word comprised of the rearranged letters of another word
autobiographical
depicting a writer’s life
autobiography
a written account of an author’s own life
biographical
pertaining to a biography; based in real life; not fictional
biography
a written account of a person’s life
calligrapher
a specialist in artistic handwriting
calligraphy
artistic writing
choreography
the planned staging of dance movements
(a) diagram
an outline; a technical drawing
(to) diagram
to outline; to draw a configuration
epigram
a short, witty verse or saying (originally an inscription “written” “on” a tombstone or
other stone monument)
epigraphy
the study of inscriptions (see Did You Know?)
gram
metric unit of dry measurement (decigram, centigram, kilogram, decagram, hectogram)
grammar
the discipline of the rules and mechanics of language
grammatical
adhering to the rules of grammar
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 12 (cont.)
gramophone
trademark name for a phonograph that plays recorded or “written” sounds
and “voices”
(a) graph
a grid along which coordinates are plotted; a figure that displays quantities trends, etc.
(e.g., a bar graph)
(to) graph
to plot coordinates; to place on a chart
graphic
vivid; related in extreme detail
graphite
soft carbon (used for writing instruments, such as pencils)
graphologist
handwriting specialist
graphology
the study of handwriting
graphomania
excessive fondness for writing
graphospasm
writer’s cramp
holograph
a will or other document thoroughly written by hand (Greek base hol(o) = “whole,
entire”); (science) a holograph is a three-dimensional representation
lexicographer
compiler of a dictionary
monogram
a letter or initial, usually engraved on a surface (such as monogrammed towels,
handkerchiefs, stationery)
monograph
a scholarly study of a single and specialized topic
paragraph
a set of sentences focusing on and developing a single theme or idea
polygraph
a lie detector that records or “writes” the “many” pulsations of a body as a person
answers questions
program
a plan or schedule “written” in “advance”
seismograph
device that records or “writes” measurements of “earthquakes” and other movements
of and beneath the earth’s surface
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Latin scrib, script. The meaning of “write” is clear in the
following words:
ascribe
to infer a cause; to cite as responsible (e.g., to ascribe a motive for conduct); this word
begins with the prefix ad-
circumscribe
to write or draw around; to enclose in a circle
conscript
to coerce into military service; to draft; literally, to “write” a list of names “together”
for a draft
conscripted
drafted (i.e., not enlisted as a volunteer)
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 12 (cont.)
conscription
the military draft
describe
to represent in words; literally, to “write” “down” in detail
description
representation or portrayal in words
descriptive
modifying (e.g., an adjective is a descriptive word that modifies a noun); serving to
describe in detailed fashion (e.g., a descriptive account)
indescribable
having qualities (positive or negative) that cannot be described
inscribe
to write in or on; to etch
inscription
a dedication “written” “in” or “on” something; also, an epigraph written or carved on a
building or monument
manuscript
a hand written document or text (Latin base manu = “hand”); a printed or written
text that has not yet been published
nondescript
bland, dull; not worthy of description
prescribe
to lay down a rule or remedy; literally, to “write” a remedy “before” the patient takes
the medicine or fills the prescription
prescription
a written remedy
prescriptive
determined by a previous order or by tradition
proscribe
to outlaw; to pronounce or condemn as dangerous; to prohibit
proscription
banishment, exile; the outlawing of a person
scribal
(noun) relating to a scribe; (verb) to work or inscribe
scribe
(noun) a copyist or clerk; (verb) to write or inscribe
script
a printed or written text; a style of writing (italic script, cursive script, etc.)
scripted
speaking from a written text that has been memorized
scriptorium
a copying room in a medieval monastery in which scribes made hand written copies of
texts
scriptural
of or relating to writing; based on or referring to scripture; Biblical
Scripture
sacred text
subscribe
to agree to a contract by signing one’s name; to endorse
subscript
a letter written beneath another letter or number
subscription
a standing order to a periodical
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 12 (cont.)
transcribe
to make a written copy of an unwritten text; to copy a speech or written document
into another written form; to change a musical arrangement for a different voice or
instrument
transcript
a written or printed copy
transcription
a musical rearrangement
Unit III, Lesson 13
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek cri, crit. The meaning of “judge, decide” is clear
in the following words:
crisis
a decisive or vitally important stage or moment; a critical moment at which a decisive
change occurs that “decides” future from past events; plural = crises
criterion
a single standard by which a judgment or evaluation is made; plural = criteria
critic
a person skilled in “judging” various activities and products; a fault-finder
critical
essential, of vital importance (e.g., critical to…); perilous, occurring at a moment
of crisis (e.g., critical condition); finding fault (e.g., a critical assessment); sufficient in
number or amount (e.g., critical mass)
criticize
pass judgment over and assess; to find fault
(a) critique
an assessment or evaluation that passes judgment on quality; a review
(to) critique
to review something and judge its quality
diacritics
punctuation marks in print that “decide” the pronunciation of vowel combinations as
distinct sounds and not as diphthongs (adjectival form of this word is diacritical)
hypercritical
excessively critical or fault-finding
hypocrisy
pretense of virtue or piety; false or feigned goodness
hypocrite
a pretender or dissembler; one who affects virtues and other positive qualities that he
or she does not actually possess (adjectival form of this word is hypocritical)
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Latin judg, judic. The meaning of “judge, decide” is clear
in the following words:
adjudicate
to sit in judgment over; to serve as a judge (prefix ad- = “to, toward, add to”); one
who adjudicates sits “at” the case and passes “judgment”
injudicious
foolish; unwise; “not” reflecting sound “judgment”
(a) judge
an official or officer charged with making “judgments” or decisions
(to) judge
to make a decisive judgment or decision; to “decide” between contestants or
claimants
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 13 (cont.)
judgment
a decision or evaluation; discretion (e.g., to exercise good judgment)
judgmental
opinionated, condemnatory; passing “judgment” on others
judicial or judiciary
pertaining to courts and the legal system
(the) judiciary
the court system
judicious
wise; well thought-out; sage
misjudge
to make an error in “judgment”
nonjudgmental
withholding judgment of others; noncritical
prejudge
to make a “judgment” “before” learning the facts; to be premature in judging
prejudice
an opinion or attitude with which one “judges” others “before” learning the
necessary information
prejudiced
biased
sub judice (Latin
phrase)
tried or decided “under a judge;” still “under judgment” and not yet decided
Unit III, Lesson 14
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek meter, metr. The meaning of “measure” is clear
in the following words:
asymmetrical
not balanced; not symmetrical (this word begins with “alpha-privative,” the Greek athat negates the rest of the word)
diameter
the line or measure through a geometric figure (especially of a circle)
diametric
extreme, absolute; placed at the opposite end (e.g., diametric opposites)
hexameter
a line of poetry consisting of “six” “measured” feet
meter
a unit of measure in the metric system; the “measure” used by a poet in verse
metric
pertaining to measurement (e.g., the metric system)
metronome
a device that keeps time (used by musicians)
parameter
an independent variable in an equation; literally, a “side” “measure”
parameters
the limits or legitimate guidelines in which an activity may be conducted; literally, the
lines or “measures” that go around the “side” of something (for example, “To stay
within the parameters of the law.”)
pentameter
a line of poetry consisting of “five” “measured” feet
perimeter
the outer edge of an area; also, the measure taken around a polygon
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 14 (cont.)
symmetrical
balanced; evenly arranged; matching
symmetry
balance; evenness in arrangement
tetrameter
a line of poetry consisting of “four” “measured” feet
trimeter
a line of poetry consisting of “three” “measured” feet
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Latin reg, rect. The meaning of “rule, straight, right” is
clear in the following words:
correct
accurate; “right”
(to) correct
to set “right” “with” a rule or standard
correction
a change or adjustment that corrects an object and “sets it right”
direct
straightforward; immediate
(to) direct
to guide with advice; to control, manage; literally, to send “apart” (prefix di-) in a
“straight” line or manner
directly
straightway, immediately (chiefly British, as in, “I’ll be with you directly.”)
erect
straight and upright (e.g., hold your head erect, erect posture)
(to) erect
to build; to set up; literally, to build “upright” “out of” the ground or other surface
interregnum
the period “between” two kings or “rulers”
irregular
“not” “regular;” inconsistent with regulations (e.g., irregular proceedings)
realm
the kingdom or area under a ruler’s control; domain
rectangle
a “right” “angle”; also, a polygon with “right” “angles”
rectilinear
consisting of “straight” “lines”
rectitude
integrity; moral “uprightness;” correctness of principle
recto
the “right” hand side of an open book (see Did You Know?)
rectum intestinum
the straight intestine; hence the adjective rectal (e.g., rectal thermometer)
regal
associated with a king or other “ruler;” rich, royal, “fit for a king”
regent
a ruling official of an organization or institution
regicide
the killing or assassination of a king or “ruler;” one who commits regicide
regimen
a set of rules controlling diet, exercise, health maintenance, etc.
regiment
a unit of soldiers overseen by a ruler or commander
regular
normal; occurring “as a rule;” adhering to rules
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 14 (cont.)
regulate
to impose rules or limits; to control
regulation
a standard or rule (e.g., regulation-sized baseball bat; rules and regulations)
reign
the “rule” or time during which a ruler is in control
The following words based on Latin reg, rect have two prefixes attached to the base. These words beginning
with negative in- present the negative of the word to which the prefix attaches:
incorrect
not correct
incorrigible
intractable; incapable of showing behavioral improvement
indirect
roundabout; not direct or straightforward
The following word begins with directional in-:
insurrection
a rebellion or uprising; literally, a “rising up” “from under” “into, against” an oppressor
Unit III, Lesson 15
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek onym. The meaning of “name, word” is clear in
the following words:
acronym
a name or word consisting of the initials (Greek base acr(o) = “edge, end, top”) of one
or more successive words
anonymous
nameless; unidentified by name (the prefix an- is “alpha-privative” before a vowel)
antonym
a word “opposite” in meaning to another “word”
cryptonym
a code name or “secret” “name”
homonym
a word with the same pronunciation and (usually) spelling as another word (Greek
prefix homo- = “same”); some people distinguish homonyms (as words that have the
same spelling but different meanings) from homophones (words that are pronounced
alike but spelled differently)
onomatopoeia
the use or formation of words in imitation of their natural sound; literally, “the making
of a name or word”
patronymic
referring to the “name” of one’s “father”
pseudonym
a “false” “name,” often used by writers
synonym
a word identical in meaning “with” another “word”
synonymous
identical in meaning “with” another “word”
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Latin nomen, nomin, noun. The meaning of “name” is
clear in the following words:
cognomen
family “name” (last name); a nickname
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit III, Lesson 15 (cont.)
denomination
a religious group, as identified by its “name;” the face value of a bank note, a coin, or a
postage stamp
denominational
pertaining to a particular and named religion
denominator
(in math) the lower number of a fraction (its function is to set “down” the “name” of
the fractional unit)
ignominious
disgraceful, shameful; unmentionable by “name”
ignominy
disgrace; ill repute; literally, a shame so great that the person is “not” mentioned
by “name”
misnomer
a wrong or misleading word or “name”
nomenclature
naming or classification system within a specific discipline
nominal
slight, insignificant; existing in “name” only
nominate
to name a candidate; to select by “name”
nomination
selection for candidacy
nominee
an appointee or candidate chosen by “name”
noun
a word that names a person, place, or thing
pronoun
a word that refers to an already expressed or understood “noun” (literally, a pronoun
“takes the place of” a “noun”)
renown
fame, (positive) reputation
renowned
famous; having a widely recognized and admired name or reputation
Unit IV, Lesson 16
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek log. The meaning of “word, speech, reasoning” is
clear in the following words:
analogous
similar, comparable, corresponding, of like proportions
analogy
a similarity or correspondence; literally, a “reasoning” that is applied “back” to a
like situation
apologetic
expressing remorse or regret; seeking forgiveness
apologetics
the branch of writing concerned with defending Christianity
apologist
one who speaks or writes in defense of a belief (e.g., early Christian apologists)
apologize
to express regret; to seek forgiveness
apology
an expression of regret; a request for forgiveness; a speech of self-defense or
explanation to “speak” “away” criticism
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit IV, Lesson 16 (cont.)
catalogue
(noun) a list; a record of collected items; (verb) to make a list of holdings
dialogue
a conversation between two or more people; literally, a conversation in which
“speakers” address one another “across” a room
epilogue
concluding portion of a book, play, or other text, usually added as an appendage
eulogy
a speech of praise; a funeral oration of “good” “words” in honor of the deceased
logic
reasoning; the study of human thought processes and argumentation
logical
reasonable, rational, making sense; opposite of this word is illogical
prologue
introductory portion of a larger text; foreword
syllogism
an argument with two premises and a conclusion; literally, “reasoning” that puts
premises and facts “together”
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek erg. The meaning of “work” is clear in the
following words:
allergy
an abnormal or irregular (“other”) reaction or “working” of a substance on a body
energize
to activate; to make powerful; to stimulate
energy
exertion of power or activity; the capacity for “work” that lies “in” a body
erg
a measured unit of work
ergonomic
making efficient and economical use of energy and effort
ergonomics
the study of the expenditure of energy by workers using tools; this word is a
neologism for “economics of energy”
synergy
dynamic and creative interactions between various entities as they “work” “together”
Unit IV, Lesson 17
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek centr. The meaning of “center” is clear in the
following words:
anthropocentric
centered on human beings
central
at or near the center; of principal importance
centrist
adopting a moderate or “center” position between extremes
concentric
having the same center
eccentric
odd, peculiar, erratic; “off-centered”
egocentric
self-centered
geocentric
Earth-“centered”; orbiting around Earth
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit IV, Lesson 17 (cont.)
heliocentric
sun-“centered”; orbiting around the sun
theocentric
God-“centered”
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek cycl. The meaning of “circle, wheel” is clear in
the following words:
cycle
a complete round of operations; a recurring period of time
cyclic
pertaining to a circle; revolving or recurring in cycles
cyclical
occurring in repeated cycles or patterns
cycloid
round, circular in shape, smooth-edged (e.g., describing the scales of a fish)
cyclone
a tropical hurricane that “spins” in a circle
cyclopean
huge, massive
cyclops
mythical monster with a single “round” eye in his forehead; hence, a Cyclops moth,
whose wings are marked with a design resembling a round and open eye
encyclical
a bulletin or “circular” sent from a pope or bishop throughout the archdiocese
or parish
encyclopedia
a reference work that treats a large number of various subjects separately; literally, a
work providing “education” “in” a complete “circle”
encyclopedic
knowledgeable in a wide range of topics; having vast learning
recycle
to place “back” into “circulation”; to reuse
Unit IV, Lesson 18
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek od, (h)od. The meaning of “road, way” is clear in
the following words:
anode
the positive terminal of a battery, in which the current of negatively charged ions
“travel” “up”
cathode
the negative terminal of a battery “down from” which the positive ions flow in the
“road” of their circuit
episode
an incident or event, usually one in a series of events or extended story line (see Did
You Know? for the origins of this word in Greek drama)
episodic
incidental; having the nature of an episode (e.g., episodic plot)
exodus
the evacuation or exiting of (usually) a large population from an area
Exodus
Biblical book relating Moses’ leading the Israelites on the “road” “out of” Egypt
method
a regular and systematic approach; literally, a “way” that leads “across” to a goal or end
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit IV, Lesson 18 (cont.)
odometer
device that “measures” the distance (“road”) traveled by a vehicle
period
a unit of time, an interval (e.g., lunch period); literally, the time it takes for a planetary
body to make its “way” “around” the center of its orbit; punctuation mark indicating
the completion of a sentence
periodic
intermittent; occurring over a period of time; from time to time, such as periodic
flooding in low-lying areas
periodical
a journal, magazine, or newspaper published in regular intervals
synod
a council of churches in a region; literally, a coming “together” of the “roads” in
a diocese
synodical
pertaining to or issued by a synod
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek top. The meaning of “place, location” is clear in
the following words:
ectopic
abnormally placed; in the wrong location (used in medicine); occurring “out of” the
right “place” (e.g., an ectopic pregnancy)
topic
a theme or subject of discussion, debate; literally, the locus or “place” of the writer’s
or discussant’s discourse
topical
local, regional; applied to a specific area (of the body)
topographical
illustrating or describing the distinctive terrain of a geographical place or area
topography
the terrain of a distinct area; a description of such terrain
toponym
a place name; a name given to a place after the name of another place or person
utopia
an imaginary and ideal place which can “not” be found in any “place” on Earth
utopian
blissful, ideal, fanciful
Unit IV, Lesson 19
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek arch, archy. The meaning of “lead(er), first,
oldest” is clear in the following words:
anarchy
lawlessness; the chaos resulting from the absence of rule (Greek prefix an- is
“alpha-privative,” meaning “not”)
archaeologist
(archeologist)
someone who studies archaeology; someone who excavates ancient building sites,
burial grounds, etc.
archaeology
(archeology)
study of the material remains of the ancient past
archaic
ancient, antiquated, extremely old, outdated
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit IV, Lesson 19 (cont.)
archaism
an ancient, outdated, or extremely old use of language
architect
designer of buildings and other structures; literally, “first” “builder” (see Did You Know?)
architecture
the art of designing buildings; the designed structure of a building
archives
historical records of an institution, government, historical family, or community
hierarchy
a system in which people hold graded ranks and orders of power (originally, and still
within church contexts, this word referred to the ranking of “priests” [Greek base
hier = “sacred, priest”] according to the ascending “orders” of deacon, priest, bishop,
archbishop, patriarch, etc.)
matriarch
the (usually) elder mother or grandmother who presides over a family or group
matriarchy
rule by the mother or senior female
monarch
a single or sole ruler who does not share power with others (Greek base
mon = “only, alone”)
oligarchy
rule by the few (originally, rule by the few surviving members of a body of elders)
patriarch
the (usually) elder father or grandfather who presides over a family or group
patriarchy
rule by the father or senior male
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek crat, cracy. The meaning of “rule, ruler” is clear
in the following words:
aristocracy
rule by the wealthy landowners (the so-called “old-moneyed” families who consider
themselves the “best”)
aristocrat
an advocate of aristocracy; one who has the tastes, manners, airs, and wealth of a
superior ruling class
aristocratic
having the characteristics of an aristocrat; stylish, grand, exclusive
autocracy
total rule by oneself; unlimited power
autocrat
an absolute ruler; monarch
autocratic
holding unchecked power
bureaucracy
excessive complexity in administration; rule by cabinets or bureaus
bureaucrat
one who works in a bureaucracy; one who slavishly follows procedures without
exercising personal intelligence
democracy
rule by, of, and for the people
democrat
one who subscribes to the tenets of democracy; (with uppercase D): a member of the
Democratic political party
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit IV, Lesson 19 (cont.)
democratic
pertaining to a democracy; egalitarian
gerontocracy
rule by elders
gynecocracy
rule by women
plutocracy
rule by the wealthy
plutocrat
the ruler in a plutocracy; one who subscribes to the tenets of plutocracy
plutocratic
pertaining to plutocracy; assigning political power and rule to the wealthy
thalassocracy
rule of the seas (for example, the British Empire was a thalassocracy, giving rise to the
boast, “The sun never sets on the British Empire.”)
theocracy
rule by the Church or other religious leaders; literally, “rule by God”
theocrat
a priest of other cleric with political power
theocratic
pertaining to a theocracy
Unit IV, Lesson 20
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek thes, thet, them. The meaning of “put, place,
position” is clear in the following words:
anathema
a curse or excommunication; a person especially loathed by a group
antithesis
opposition, contrast; the “setting, placing” of one thing “against” another
(plural = antitheses)
antithetical
opposed, opposite (usually followed by “to”)
epithet
an adjective or modifier, especially one that is frequently associated with a particular
noun; literally, a word that is “placed, put” “in addition to, next to” another word
hypothesis
a tentative assumption or supposition; an “underlying” idea or proposal submitted for
testing or proof (plural = hypotheses)
hypothetical
conjectural, conditional; based on a hypothesis or assumption
parentheses
punctuation marks “in” which digressive words or remarks are “placed” “aside”
parenthesis
an aside or digression; a remark or comment that parts from the main text and is
“placed” “aside” “in” markers called parentheses
parenthetic or
parenthetical
digressive; made as a side comment
photosynthesis
the synthesis of complex organic materials by plants using “light” (Greek photo-)
prosthesis
an artificial limb or tooth attached (“put” “to, toward”) to a body; also called a
prosthetic limb or prosthetic tooth
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Definitions for Teachers
Word
Definition
Unit IV, Lesson 20 (cont.)
prosthetics
surgical and dental specialty of replacing missing parts and attaching them to the body
synthesis
combination of parts into a composite
synthesize
to “put” things “together” in a composite and usually complex order; also, to fabricate
or make up by “putting together” disparate parts
synthetic
artificial; “put” “together” from component parts (often contrasted with “natural”)
thematic
pertaining to a particular theme or “set” topic
theme
topic of discourse; a written exercise; literally, something “put” down as a
main subject
thesis
a “position” paper; a dissertation; a proposition “set” down for advancing an argument
(plural = theses)
Here are some “basic” definitions of words based on Greek tact, tax. The meaning of “arrange” is clear in
the following words:
syntactic or
syntactical
grammatical; pertaining to syntax (e.g., syntactical errors)
syntax
the branch of grammar concerned with the “arranging” “together” of words in
sentences, according to grammatical principles
tactical
adroit; characterized by or skilled in tactics
tactics
maneuvers; the art or science of “arranging” troops in battle
taxidermy
the art of “arranging” and stuffing the skins of dead animals for preservation or display
taxonomy
classification of plants and animals
Note: The words tax (as in sales tax, income tax; a taxing ordeal), taxi (as in taxicab; to taxi down the runway),
and tact (as in tactful, showing tact in a delicate situation) do NOT come from the Greek base for “arrange.”
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