GRE Vocabulary — Set 78

Set 78 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: cumbersome, debilitating, deliberate, demure, detached. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. cumbersome · adjective/ˈkʌm.bɚ.səm/

   large or heavy and therefore difficult to carry or use

   The box was so cumbersome that it took two people to lift it off the ground.

   Synonyms: bulky, unwieldy, awkward

   Origin: Middle English 'cumbersome', from 'cumber' (to hinder or obstruct) + '-some' (having the quality of).

2. debilitating · adjective/dɪˈbɪl.ɪˌteɪ.tɪŋ/

   causing a decline in strength or effectiveness

   The debilitating effects of chronic pain can prevent individuals from leading a normal life.

   Synonyms: weakening, incapacitating, debilitating

   Origin: from the Latin 'debilitare', meaning 'to weaken', which is derived from 'debilis', meaning 'weak'

3. deliberate · adjective/dɪˈlɪbərɪt/

   done consciously and intentionally

   The team made a deliberate decision to change their marketing strategy after analyzing the data.

   Synonyms: intentional, purposeful, calculated

   Origin: from Latin 'deliberatus', past participle of 'deliberare', meaning 'to weigh or consider carefully'

4. demure · adjective/dɪˈmjʊr/

   reserved, modest, and shy in manner or behavior

   Despite her demure demeanor, she spoke with great confidence during the interview.

   Synonyms: reserved, modest, shy

   Origin: from Middle English 'demure,' meaning modest, from Old French 'demourer' meaning to stay, remain, which comes from Latin 'demorari'.

5. detached · adjective/dɪˈtætʃt/

   not emotionally involved or connected

   Despite the chaos around him, she remained emotionally detached, observing the situation with a calm demeanor.

   Synonyms: indifferent, dispassionate, aloof

   Origin: from the past participle of detach, from Old French 'détacher' meaning to unfasten or separate, which is from 'de-' (apart) + 'tacher' (to attach)