context, shield, estimation, humility, paradigm: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 95. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. context · noun/ˈkɑːnˌtɛkst/

   the circumstances or setting surrounding an event or idea

   To fully understand the novel, it's important to analyze the historical context in which it was written.

   Synonyms: circumstance, situation, background

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Latin contextus 'a joining together', from the verb contexere, which means 'to weave together'.

2. shield · noun/ʃild/

   a broad piece of metal or another material used as protection against weapons or projectiles

   The knight raised his shield to deflect the incoming arrows during the battle.

   Synonyms: protector, guard, defense

   Origin: Middle English 'shilde', from Old English 'scield', related to Old Norse 'skjǫldr' and Proto-Germanic '*skuldiz'.

3. estimation · noun/ˌɛstəˈmeɪʃən/

   an approximate calculation or judgment of the value, number, quantity, or extent of something

   The contractor provided an **estimation** of the project costs, which exceeded our initial budget.

   Synonyms: assessment, evaluation, approximation

   Origin: from Latin 'aestimatio', meaning 'a estimating, valuation'

4. humility · noun/hjuˈmɪlɪti/

   a modest or low view of one's importance

   Her humility in accepting praise for her achievements made her even more admirable to her colleagues.

   Synonyms: humbleness, meekness, modesty

   Origin: from Latin 'humilitas', from 'humilis' meaning 'lowly' or 'humble'

5. paradigm · noun/ˈpær.ə.daɪm/

   a typical example or pattern of something; a model

   The new educational model serves as a paradigm for integrating technology in the classroom.

   Synonyms: example, model, pattern

   Origin: from the Greek 'paradeigma', meaning 'pattern, example, model'