IELTS Vocabulary — Set 188

Set 188 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: hardship, route, seal, specification, backbone. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. hardship · noun/ˈhɑrdʃɪp/

   a condition of severe distress or difficulty

   Many families face financial hardship during economic downturns.

   Synonyms: struggle,suffering,adversity

   Origin: Middle English: from hard + -ship, denoting a state or condition

2. route · noun/ruːt/

   a way or course taken to reach a destination

   We decided to take the scenic route to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.

   Synonyms: path, course, way

   Origin: Middle English 'rout', from Old French 'rute', from Latin 'rupta', meaning 'broken' or 'broken ground'

3. seal · noun/sil/

   a marine mammal that is typically characterized by its external ear flaps, streamlined body, and ability to swim

   The seal flopped onto the rocky shore after a long swim in the ocean.

   Synonyms: sea lion, pinniped, walrus

   Origin: from Old English 'seolh', related to Dutch 'zeehond' and German 'Seehund'

4. specification · noun/ˌspɛsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

   a detailed description of the design and materials used to make something

   The product was built according to the provided technical specifications, ensuring it met all the industry standards.

   Synonyms: spec, requirements, detailed description

   Origin: Late Middle English: from medieval Latin 'specificatio', from 'specificare' meaning 'to specify'

5. backbone · noun/ˈbækboʊn/

   a supporting or main structure that provides stability and strength

   The backbone of the organization is its dedicated staff, who ensure that all operations run smoothly.

   Synonyms: spine, mainstay, support

   Origin: Middle English: from back + bone, translating the Latin 'spina dorsalis' which means 'dorsal spine'