virtuosity, megalomania, munificence, convalescent, philistine: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 106. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. virtuosity · noun/ˌvɜr.tʃuˈɑs.ɪ.ti/

   great skill or mastery in a particular art or field

   The pianist's virtuosity was evident as she effortlessly played the complex composition with unparalleled skill.

   Synonyms: skill, mastery, expertise

   Origin: from Italian 'virtuosità', from 'virtuoso', meaning 'skilled' or 'virtuous', derived from Latin 'virtus' meaning 'virtue, strength'.

2. megalomania · noun/ˌmɛɡəloʊˈmeɪniə/

   a pathological obsession with one's own power and importance

   His megalomania led him to believe he was destined to rule the world, ignoring the realities of his limitations.

   Synonyms: egomania, narcissism, delusions of grandeur

   Origin: The word 'megalomania' originates from the Greek words 'megalo-' meaning 'large' or 'great' and 'mania' meaning 'madness' or 'obsession'.

3. munificence · noun/mjuˈnɪfɪsəns/

   generosity in giving or bestowing lavishly

   The munificence of the donor allowed the charity to expand its programs and help even more families in need.

   Synonyms: generosity, magnanimity, lavishness

   Origin: Derived from Latin 'munificentia', from 'munificus' meaning 'generous or bountiful'.

4. convalescent · noun/ˌkɑnvəˈlɛsənt/

   a person who is recovering after an illness or medical treatment

   After several weeks in the hospital, the convalescent slowly regained her strength and began to take short walks.

   Synonyms: recovering patient, patient, invalid

   Origin: from Latin 'convalescens', meaning 'growing strong or healthy again', from 'con-' (together) and 'valescere' (to be strong)

5. philistine · noun/ˈfɪl.ɪ.stɪn/

   a person who is indifferent to or hostile toward art and culture

   Many critics argued that the decision to cut funding for the arts was a clear indication of philistine attitudes in the government.

   Synonyms: materialist, uncultured person, boor

   Origin: The word 'philistine' originates from the ancient Philistines, a people in ancient Palestine who were perceived by the ancient Israelites as lacking in culture and refinement.