verisimilitude, profundity, extirpation, retrospect, fecundity: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 136. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. verisimilitude · noun/ˌvɛrɪsɪˈmɪlɪˌtud/

   the appearance of being true or real

   The verisimilitude of the novel's characters made them feel like real people navigating everyday challenges.

   Synonyms: likelihood, realism, authenticity

   Origin: from Latin 'verisimilitudo', from 'verus' meaning 'true' and 'similitudo' meaning 'likeness' or 'similarity'

2. profundity · noun/prəˈfʌn.dɪ.ti/

   great depth of knowledge, thought, or insight

   The profundity of her analysis left the audience in awe, as she revealed insights that were both profound and challenging.

   Synonyms: depth, insight, wisdom

   Origin: from Latin 'profunditas', meaning 'deepness', from 'profundus' meaning 'deep'

3. extirpation · noun/ˌɛk.stɚˈpeɪ.ʃən/

   the act of removing or destroying something completely

   The extirpation of invasive species from the ecosystem is essential to protect native wildlife.

   Synonyms: eradication, obliteration, annihilation

   Origin: from Latin 'extirpationem', from 'extirpare' meaning 'to root out', which combines 'ex-' (out) and 'stirps' (root)

4. retrospect · noun/ˈrɛtroʊspɛkt/

   a review or contemplation of past events

   In retrospect, I realize that the decision I made was not the best one at the time.

   Synonyms: recollection, review, hindsight

   Origin: From Latin 'retrospectus', meaning 'looked back'.

5. fecundity · noun/fɪˈkʌndɪti/

   the ability to produce an abundance of offspring or new growth

   The fecundity of the soil in this region allows for a diverse range of crops to thrive.

   Synonyms: fertility, richness, productivity

   Origin: derived from the Latin 'fecunditas', meaning 'fruitfulness', from 'fecundus' meaning 'fruitful'