accretion, exigency, adulation, adversary, aggregate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 64. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. accretion · noun/əˈkriː.ʃən/

   the process of gradual growth or increase, typically by the addition of new layers or parts

   The accretion of sediment along the riverbank has gradually altered the landscape over the years.

   Synonyms: growth, increase, accumulation

   Origin: from Latin 'accretio', meaning 'a growth together', from 'accretere', meaning 'to grow together'

2. exigency · noun/ˈɛksɪdʒənsi/

   a pressing necessity or urgent situation

   In times of natural disasters, the exigency of the situation demands immediate action from authorities.

   Synonyms: necessity, urgency, demand

   Origin: from Latin 'exigentia', from 'exigere' meaning 'to demand' or 'to require'

3. adulation · noun/ˌædʒəˈleɪʃən/

   excessive admiration or praise

   The celebrity received widespread adulation from fans after her stunning performance at the awards show.

   Synonyms: flattery, praise, adoration

   Origin: Latin 'adulatio', from 'adulari', meaning 'to flatter'

4. adversary · noun/ˈæd.vɚ.sɛr.i/

   one that opposes or resists

   In the courtroom, the defense attorney faced a skilled adversary who was determined to win the case.

   Synonyms: opponent, rival, foe

   Origin: from Latin 'adversarius', meaning 'opponent' or 'enemy', from 'advertere' (to turn toward).

5. aggregate · noun/ˈæɡrɪɡət/

   a whole formed by combining several elements

   The aggregate of all the data collected from the surveys provided a clear picture of public opinion.

   Synonyms: total, sum, collection

   Origin: from Latin 'aggregatus', the past participle of 'aggregare', meaning 'to add to' or 'to bring together'.