refractory, saturnine, sedulous, shrill, sordid: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 192. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. refractory · adjective/rɪˈfræktəri/

   not responding to treatment or difficult to manage

   The patient's refractory pain required multiple rounds of treatment before any relief was achieved.

   Synonyms: unmanageable, resistant, obstinate

   Origin: from Latin 'refractorius', from 'refringere' meaning 'to break up or break open'

2. saturnine · adjective/ˈsætərˌnaɪn/

   gloomy or moody in temperament

   Despite his saturnine demeanor, he surprised everyone with a rare smile during the celebration.

   Synonyms: sullen, morose, gloomy

   Origin: from Latin 'saturninus', meaning 'of Saturn', referring to the planet Saturn, which was associated with gloominess and melancholy in astrology

3. sedulous · adjective/ˈsɛdʒ.ə.ləs/

   showing dedication and diligence in one’s work or tasks

   Her sedulous efforts in completing the project ahead of schedule did not go unnoticed by her supervisor.

   Synonyms: diligent, assiduous, industrious

   Origin: The word 'sedulous' comes from the Latin 'sedulus', meaning 'busy, diligent'.

4. shrill · adjective/ʃrɪl/

   having a high-pitched and piercing sound

   The shrill sound of the whistle pierced through the noise of the crowd, grabbing everyone's attention.

   Synonyms: piercing, high-pitched, screeching

   Origin: Middle English 'shril' from Old English 'scrīlle', related to the verb ‘shrill’.

5. sordid · adjective/ˈsɔrdɪd/

   involving ignoble actions and motives; arousing moral distaste and contempt

   The investigation uncovered a sordid tale of corruption and deceit involving city officials.

   Synonyms: vile, base, despicable

   Origin: From Latin 'sordidus', meaning 'filthy, squalid, or dirty'