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ken

noun/kɛn/

definition

range of knowledge or understanding

example

The concept of quantum mechanics is beyond my ken, making it difficult for me to engage in advanced scientific discussions.

synonyms
rangescopeunderstanding
word origin — The word 'ken' originates from the Old English 'cennan,' meaning 'to make known' or 'to declare,' and has evolved in usage over time.

GRE Vocabulary — Set 85

Set 85 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: ken, malaise, mirth, jurisdiction, nexus. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. ken · noun/kɛn/

    range of knowledge or understanding

    The concept of quantum mechanics is beyond my ken, making it difficult for me to engage in advanced scientific discussions.

    Synonyms: range, scope, understanding

    Origin: The word 'ken' originates from the Old English 'cennan,' meaning 'to make known' or 'to declare,' and has evolved in usage over time.

  2. malaise · noun/məˈleɪz/

    a general feeling of discomfort or unease

    The company's financial malaise has led to numerous layoffs and a decline in employee morale.

    Synonyms: discomfort, unease, agitation

    Origin: The word 'malaise' originates from the French word 'malaise', which is derived from 'mal' meaning 'bad' and 'aise' meaning 'ease'.

  3. mirth · noun/mɜrθ/

    great joy and amusement

    The room was filled with mirth as the children shared their funny stories and jokes.

    Synonyms: joy, amusement, laughter

    Origin: The word 'mirth' originates from the Old English 'myrth', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*murthiz', and is related to the Old Norse 'mirth' meaning 'joy'.

  4. jurisdiction · noun/ˌdʒʊrɪsˈdɪkʃən/

    the official power to make legal decisions and judgments

    The court has jurisdiction over all criminal cases within the state, ensuring that justice is served appropriately.

    Synonyms: authority, control, domain

    Origin: from Latin 'jurisdictio' meaning 'authority' (from 'jus' meaning 'law' + 'dictio' meaning 'saying' or 'administration')

  5. nexus · noun/ˈnɛksəs/

    a connection or series of connections linking two or more things

    The research highlights the nexus between climate change and global food security, emphasizing the need for sustainable agricultural practices.

    Synonyms: connection, link, junction

    Origin: from Latin 'nexus', meaning 'a binding together, a connection.'