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illustrious

adjective/ɪˈlʌstrɪəs/

definition

well known, respected, and admired for past achievements

example

The university has produced many illustrious graduates who have made significant contributions to their fields.

synonyms
celebratedfamousrenowned
word origin — from Latin 'illustrius', meaning 'bright', 'famous', from 'illustrare' meaning 'to light up'

GRE Vocabulary — Set 57

Set 57 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: illustrious, hubristic, farcical, imperious, equitable. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. illustrious · adjective/ɪˈlʌstrɪəs/

    well known, respected, and admired for past achievements

    The university has produced many illustrious graduates who have made significant contributions to their fields.

    Synonyms: celebrated, famous, renowned

    Origin: from Latin 'illustrius', meaning 'bright', 'famous', from 'illustrare' meaning 'to light up'

  2. hubristic · adjective/hjuˈbrɪstɪk/

    excessively proud or self-confident

    His hubristic attitude led him to underestimate the challenges ahead, ultimately resulting in his failure.

    Synonyms: arrogant, conceited, egotistical

    Origin: from the Greek word 'hubris', meaning excessive pride or self-confidence

  3. farcical · adjective/ˈfɑr-sɪ-kəl/

    ridiculously exaggerated or absurd

    The political debate turned into a farcical spectacle, with candidates resorting to outrageous insults instead of discussing real issues.

    Synonyms: ludicrous, ridiculous, preposterous

    Origin: from French 'farce' meaning 'farce' or 'comic play', originating from Latin 'farcire' meaning 'to stuff'.

  4. imperious · adjective/ɪmˈpɪrɪəs/

    domineering or commanding in a haughty manner

    The imperious tone in her voice left no room for debate, compelling everyone to follow her orders without question.

    Synonyms: domineering, haughty, overbearing

    Origin: from Latin 'imperiosus', meaning 'commanding, commanding authority' from 'imperium' meaning 'power, authority'.

  5. equitable · adjective/ˈɛkwɪtəbl/

    fair and impartial in treatment or judgment

    The committee aimed to create an equitable distribution of resources among all community members.

    Synonyms: fair, just, impartial

    Origin: Derived from Middle English 'equitable', from Old French 'équitable', from Latin 'aequidālis', meaning 'equal'.