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maverick

noun/ˈmævərɪk/

definition

an independent individual who does not conform to a group or norm

example

As a maverick in the tech industry, she often introduced innovative ideas that challenged conventional practices.

synonyms
nonconformistrebelindividualist
word origin — The term 'maverick' originates from Samuel Maverick, a 19th-century Texan rancher who refused to brand his cattle.

GRE Vocabulary — Set 88

Set 88 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: maverick, misanthrope, notoriety, anachronism, fluke. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. maverick · noun/ˈmævərɪk/

    an independent individual who does not conform to a group or norm

    As a maverick in the tech industry, she often introduced innovative ideas that challenged conventional practices.

    Synonyms: nonconformist, rebel, individualist

    Origin: The term 'maverick' originates from Samuel Maverick, a 19th-century Texan rancher who refused to brand his cattle.

  2. misanthrope · noun/ˈmɪs.æn.θroʊp/

    a person who dislikes humankind and avoids human society

    Despite his wealth and achievements, he was known as a reclusive misanthrope who preferred the company of books to that of people.

    Synonyms: cynic, recluse, loner

    Origin: from the Greek 'misanthrōpos', meaning 'hating mankind', from 'misein' (to hate) + 'anthrōpos' (man)

  3. notoriety · noun/noʊtəˈraɪəti/

    the state of being famous or well known for some bad quality or deed

    The criminal gained notoriety for his string of high-profile robberies.

    Synonyms: infamy, disrepute, ill fame

    Origin: from the Latin 'notorious', meaning 'well known', from 'notus', meaning 'known'.

  4. anachronism · noun/əˈnækrəˌnɪzəm/

    something that is out of its proper time period

    The knight's use of a smartphone in the medieval film was a glaring anachronism that distracted viewers from the story.

    Synonyms: misplacement, incongruity, chronological error

    Origin: from the Greek 'anachronismos', from 'ana-' meaning 'against' + 'chronos' meaning 'time'

  5. fluke · noun/fluk/

    an unlikely chance occurrence or event

    Winning the lottery was a complete fluke, as I never buy tickets.

    Synonyms: coincidence, accident, luck

    Origin: The word 'fluke' originates from the early 19th century, possibly derived from the Old Norse word 'flóki', meaning 'a stroke or success by chance'.