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trait

noun/treɪt/

definition

a distinguishing quality or characteristic of an individual

example

One of her most admirable traits is her ability to empathize with others.

synonyms
characteristicattributefeature
word origin — The word 'trait' originates from the Latin word 'tractus', meaning 'to pull, to draw' and evolved through Middle French 'trait'.

IELTS Vocabulary — Set 9

Set 9 of IELTS Vocabulary covers 5 words: trait, polarization, curiosity, philanthropy, equilibrium. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. trait · noun/treɪt/

    a distinguishing quality or characteristic of an individual

    One of her most admirable traits is her ability to empathize with others.

    Synonyms: characteristic, attribute, feature

    Origin: The word 'trait' originates from the Latin word 'tractus', meaning 'to pull, to draw' and evolved through Middle French 'trait'.

  2. polarization · noun/ˌpoʊlərɪˈzeɪʃən/

    the division of a group into opposing factions or extremes

    The increasing polarization within the political landscape has made it difficult for legislators to find common ground on important issues.

    Synonyms: division, schism, separation

    Origin: derived from the word 'polarize', which comes from 'polar' (Latin 'polaris' meaning 'of the poles') combined with the suffix '-ization' to indicate a process.

  3. curiosity · noun/kjʊˈriəsɪti/

    a strong desire to know or learn something

    Her curiosity about how the universe works led her to study astrophysics in college.

    Synonyms: inquisitiveness, wonder, interest

    Origin: from Latin 'curiositas', from 'curiosus' meaning 'careful, curious'

  4. philanthropy · noun/fɪˈlænθrəpi/

    the desire to promote the welfare of others, typically through the donation of money to good causes

    Her philanthropy made a significant impact on the local community, providing resources for education and healthcare.

    Synonyms: charity, altruism, benevolence

    Origin: Derived from the Greek 'philanthropia', which means 'love of mankind', from 'philos' meaning 'loving' and 'anthropos' meaning 'human'.

  5. equilibrium · noun/ˌiːkwəˈlɪbriəm/

    a state of balance or stability between opposing forces or elements

    The ecosystem achieved a delicate equilibrium as predators and prey adjusted to their changing environment.

    Synonyms: balance, stability, harmony

    Origin: from Latin 'aequilibrium', where 'aequi-' means 'equal' and 'libra' means 'scales' or 'balance'