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ostracism

noun/ˈɑstrəˌsɪzəm/

the exclusion of an individual or group from a social group or community

The child faced social ostracism after being found guilty of cheating on the test, leaving them feeling isolated from their peers.

exclusionisolationshunning
word origin — The word 'ostracism' originates from the Greek word 'ostrakismos', which refers to the practice of banishing an individual from a city-state for a period of time through a vote using pottery shards (ostraka).

GRE Vocabulary — Set 177

Set 177 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: ostracism, opus, orifice, orison, parquetry. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. ostracism · noun/ˈɑstrəˌsɪzəm/

    the exclusion of an individual or group from a social group or community

    The child faced social ostracism after being found guilty of cheating on the test, leaving them feeling isolated from their peers.

    Synonyms: exclusion, isolation, shunning

    Origin: The word 'ostracism' originates from the Greek word 'ostrakismos', which refers to the practice of banishing an individual from a city-state for a period of time through a vote using pottery shards (ostraka).

  2. opus · noun/ˈoʊ.pəs/

    a musical or literary work typically used to refer to a composer's or author's body of work

    Beethoven's final opus, the late string quartets, showcases his profound mastery of the form and emotional depth.

    Synonyms: work, composition, piece

    Origin: from Latin 'opus', meaning 'work', particularly in the context of artistic creations.

  3. orifice · noun/ˈɔrɪfɪs/

    an opening or hole in a structure or an organism

    The doctor explained that the ear orifice allows sound waves to enter the inner ear.

    Synonyms: opening, aperture, hole

    Origin: from Latin 'orificium', from 'or-' meaning 'to speak' or 'mouth' and '-ficium' meaning 'making' or 'doing'.

  4. orison · noun/ˈɔrɪzən/

    a prayer or plea

    In times of struggle, many turned to their orisons, hoping for divine guidance and comfort.

    Synonyms: prayer, plea, invocation

    Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'oraison', from Latin 'oratio' meaning 'speech or prayer'

  5. parquetry · noun/ˈpɑr.ke.tri/

    the art of creating decorative patterns on a flat surface using small pieces of wood or other materials

    The elegant parquetry on the hardwood floors of the historic mansion showcased the intricate craftsmanship of the artisans who created it.

    Synonyms: marquetry, inlay, decorative woodwork

    Origin: from French 'parquet', meaning 'small compartment', diminutive of 'parc', meaning 'park'.