moat, obelisk, obloquy, odium, offal: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 171. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. moat · noun/moʊt/

   a deep, wide ditch surrounding a castle or fortification, often filled with water

   The castle was protected by a wide moat filled with murky water, deterring any would-be attackers.

   Synonyms: ditch, trench, channel

   Origin: Middle English 'mote', from Old French 'mote', 'moate', derived from Latin 'mūta', meaning 'to move, change'.

2. obelisk · noun/ˈɑː.bə.lɪsk/

   a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument with a pyramidion on top

   The ancient city was adorned with a towering obelisk that stood as a testament to its rich history.

   Synonyms: monument, pillar, stele

   Origin: from the Latin 'obeliscus', which comes from the Greek 'obeliskos', a diminutive of 'obelos', meaning 'spit' or 'pillar'

3. obloquy · noun/ˈɑːbləkwɪ/

   harsh criticism or public disgrace

   After the scandal broke, the politician faced public obloquy that tarnished his reputation for years.

   Synonyms: vituperation, slander, defamation

   Origin: Late Latin 'obloquium', from 'ob-' meaning 'against' and 'loqui' meaning 'to speak'.

4. odium · noun/ˈoʊ.di.əm/

   general or widespread hatred or disgust directed toward someone as a result of their actions

   The politician faced widespread odium after his scandalous remarks about the community's values.

   Synonyms: hatred, disgust, loathing

   Origin: Latin 'odium', meaning 'hatred'

5. offal · noun/ˈɔf.əl/

   the internal organs and entrails of a butchered animal used as food

   The chef prepared a delicious pâté made from local offal, showcasing the rich flavors of the animal's internal organs.

   Synonyms: entrails, organ meats, innards

   Origin: Middle English 'offal', from Old English 'ofla', related to the verb 'off' which means to remove or separate.