ethic, stealth, intervention, thesis, complement: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 111. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ethic · noun/ˈɛθɪk/

   a set of moral principles that govern a person's behavior or the conducting of an activity

   The company's strong work ethic is evident in the dedication and productivity of its employees.

   Synonyms: morality, principles, values

   Origin: from Greek 'ethos' meaning 'character'

2. stealth · noun/stɛlθ/

   the act of moving, proceeding, or acting in a covert way to avoid detection

   The predator approached its prey with incredible stealth, ensuring it remained undetected until the last moment.

   Synonyms: furtiveness, secrecy, surreptitiousness

   Origin: Middle English 'stelthe', from Old English 'stþlþ' meaning 'stealthy, secret, concealed', related to the verb 'stelan' meaning 'to steal'.

3. intervention · noun/ˌɪn.tɚˈven.ʃən/

   the act of intervening in a situation to alter its course or outcome

   The government decided to take immediate intervention to prevent the economic crisis from worsening.

   Synonyms: intercession, mediation, involvement

   Origin: from Latin 'interventio', meaning 'a coming between'

4. thesis · noun/ˈθisɪs/

   a statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved

   Her thesis presents a compelling argument about the impact of climate change on biodiversity.

   Synonyms: dissertation, proposition, hypothesis

   Origin: from Greek 'thesis', meaning 'a placing', 'position', from 'thesis' meaning 'to put or place'

5. complement · noun/ˈkɑːmplɪmənt/

   something that completes or goes well with something

   The bright red wine was the perfect complement to the rich, savory flavors of the steak.

   Synonyms: supplement, enhancement, counterpart

   Origin: from Latin 'complementum', meaning 'that which completes'