bravery, treatment, synchronization, barricade, outbreak: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 130. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. bravery · noun/ˈbreɪvəri/

   the quality of ready to face danger or pain

   The firefighter's bravery in rescuing the trapped victims was commendable.

   Synonyms: courage, valour, valor

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'bravoure' (bravery, courage), from 'brave' (brave, bold).

2. treatment · noun/ˈtritmənt/

   the management and care of a patient for the purpose of combating a disease or condition

   The doctor recommended a combination of therapy and medication as part of the treatment for her chronic illness.

   Synonyms: therapy, cure, care

   Origin: from the verb 'treat', derived from Middle English 'treten' meaning to handle or conduct, from Old French 'traiter' meaning to handle, treat, negotiate, from Latin 'tractare' meaning to handle, manage

3. synchronization · noun/ˌsɪŋkrəˈneɪʃən/

   the process of causing two or more things to occur at the same time or rate

   The synchronization of the orchestra and the choir created a harmonious performance that captivated the audience.

   Synonyms: synchrony, coordination, alignment

   Origin: The word 'synchronization' originates from the Greek word 'synchronos', meaning 'occurring at the same time', which is a combination of 'syn-' (together) and 'chronos' (time).

4. barricade · noun/ˈbærɪkeɪd/

   a structure or obstacle that prevents or blocks passage

   The protesters set up a barricade in the street to block traffic and draw attention to their cause.

   Synonyms: barrier, obstruction, block

   Origin: The word 'barricade' originates from the French word 'barrique,' which means 'barrel,' and refers to the use of barrels or similar objects to block a passage.

5. outbreak · noun/ˈaʊt.breɪk/

   a sudden increase in the occurrence of a disease or a sudden manifestation of a problem

   The outbreak of the virus in the region has raised concerns among health officials.

   Synonyms: epidemic, flare-up, eruption

   Origin: The word 'outbreak' is derived from the combination of 'out' and 'break', indicating a sudden emergence or breaking out of something, with its usage in the context of diseases dating back to the 17th century.