effrontery, encomium, augury, imbroglio, cachet: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 32. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. effrontery · noun/ɪˈfrʌntɚi/

   shameless or impudent boldness

   His effrontery in demanding a promotion after arriving late every day shocked his colleagues.

   Synonyms: audacity, nerve, insolence

   Origin: from Latin 'effrontia', from 'effrons', meaning 'shameless' or 'brazen'.

2. encomium · noun/ɪnˈkoʊmiəm/

   a formal expression of high praise

   The mayor delivered a heartfelt encomium during the award ceremony, honoring the contributions of local volunteers to the community.

   Synonyms: commendation, tribute, eulogy

   Origin: From Latin 'encomium', from Greek 'enkomion', meaning 'praising, a praise'.

3. augury · noun/ˈɔɡjəri/

   the practice of interpreting omens or signs to predict future events

   The ancient practice of augury was often relied upon by leaders to determine the best time for battle.

   Synonyms: omen, portent, sign

   Origin: from Latin 'augurium', which comes from 'augur', referring to a priest or prophet who interprets omens.

4. imbroglio · noun/ɪmˈbroʊɡlioʊ/

   a complicated and confusing situation or entanglement

   The political imbroglio surrounding the election left many voters feeling confused and frustrated.

   Synonyms: tangle, entanglement, mess

   Origin: Italian 'imbrogliare' meaning 'to perplex' or 'to entangle'.

5. cachet · noun/ˈkæʃ.eɪ/

   a mark of distinction or prestige

   The luxury brand carries a cachet that attracts affluent customers seeking exclusivity.

   Synonyms: prestige, status, distinction

   Origin: French, meaning 'seal' or 'token'; derived from 'cacher', meaning 'to conceal'.