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epithet

noun/ˈɛpɪˌθɛt/

a descriptive phrase expressing a quality or characteristic of the person or thing mentioned

In ancient literature, heroes often had an epithet that highlighted their greatest strengths, such as 'swift-footed Achilles.'

designationnicknamelabel
word origin — from Greek 'epitheton', meaning 'attributed, added', from 'epithesis', from 'epi-' (upon) + 'thesis' (a placing)

GRE Vocabulary — Set 168

Set 168 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: epithet, epitome, ethos, fledgling, misnomer. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. epithet · noun/ˈɛpɪˌθɛt/

    a descriptive phrase expressing a quality or characteristic of the person or thing mentioned

    In ancient literature, heroes often had an epithet that highlighted their greatest strengths, such as 'swift-footed Achilles.'

    Synonyms: designation, nickname, label

    Origin: from Greek 'epitheton', meaning 'attributed, added', from 'epithesis', from 'epi-' (upon) + 'thesis' (a placing)

  2. epitome · noun/ɪˈpɪtəmi/

    a perfect example or embodiment of a particular quality or type

    She is the epitome of grace and elegance, always carrying herself with poise.

    Synonyms: embodiment, paragon, quintessence

    Origin: from Greek 'epitome', meaning 'a summary' or 'a cutting upon'; from 'epitemnein', meaning 'to cut short or abridge'.

  3. ethos · noun/ˈiːθɔs/

    the characteristic spirit or beliefs of a community, culture, or era

    The ethos of the small town is rooted in a strong sense of community and mutual support.

    Synonyms: spirit, ethos, character

    Origin: from Greek 'ēthos' meaning character or nature

  4. fledgling · noun/ˈflɛdʒlɪŋ/

    a young bird that has just acquired feathers for flight or a person or organization that is immature or inexperienced

    The fledgling managed to take its first flight, soaring clumsily but excitedly into the air.

    Synonyms: neophyte, novice, newcomer

    Origin: Middle English, from Old English 'fledgling', meaning 'to fly'; related to the root 'fledg-', meaning 'to flutter or fly'.

  5. misnomer · noun/ˈmɪsˌnoʊ.mɚ/

    a name or term that is incorrectly applied to a person or thing

    Calling it a 'family restaurant' is a misnomer, as it primarily caters to young singles and couples.

    Synonyms: misapplication, incorrect label, wrong name

    Origin: Late 14th century; from Middle English 'misnomer', from 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' + 'nomer' from Latin 'nominare' meaning 'to name'.