solvent, expansion, incidence, discipline, marvel: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 103. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. solvent · noun/ˈsɑlvənt/

   a substance that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution

   Water is a universal solvent that can dissolve many substances, making it essential for life.

   Synonyms: dissolver, fluid, medium

   Origin: from Latin 'solventem', present participle of 'solvere', meaning 'to loosen or dissolve'

2. expansion · noun/ɪkˈspænʃən/

   the act or process of increasing in size, volume, quantity, or scope

   The company's expansion into international markets has significantly increased its revenue.

   Synonyms: growth, increase, extension

   Origin: Originating from the Latin word 'expansio', which means 'a spreading out'.

3. incidence · noun/ˈɪn.sɪ.dəns/

   the occurrence or frequency of an event or something happening

   The incidence of heart disease has increased significantly over the past decade.

   Synonyms: occurrence, event, frequency

   Origin: From Latin incidentia, meaning 'a falling upon' or 'occurrence.'

4. discipline · noun/ˈdɪsəplɪn/

   the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behavior

   The military emphasizes discipline among its ranks to ensure that orders are followed without question.

   Synonyms: training, control, regulation

   Origin: from Old French 'disciplina', from Latin 'disciplina' meaning 'instruction, knowledge', based on 'discere' meaning 'to learn'.

5. marvel · noun/ˈmɑrvəl/

   a wonderful or astonishing person or thing

   The new smartphone is a technological marvel, offering features that were once unimaginable.

   Synonyms: wonder, miracle, phenomenon

   Origin: Middle English 'meruaille', from Old French 'merveille', from Latin 'mira', meaning 'to wonder at'