SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 114

Set 114 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: membrane, discomfort, aroma, hospitality, apex. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. membrane · noun/ˈmɛm.breɪn/

   a thin layer of material that separates two environments or serves a specific function

   The cell membrane acts as a protective barrier, regulating what enters and exits the cell.

   Synonyms: film, layer, barrier

   Origin: from Latin 'membrana', meaning 'a skin or parchment', from 'membrum', meaning 'member' or 'part'

2. discomfort · noun/dɪsˈkʌmfərt/

   a state of unease or physical discomfort

   After sitting in the same position for hours, she experienced a great deal of discomfort in her back.

   Synonyms: unease, discomfort, distress

   Origin: Middle English discomfited, from Old French desconfit, from Latin discomfitere, from dis- + com- + facere 'to do'

3. aroma · noun/əˈroʊ.mə/

   a distinctive smell, often pleasant or fragrant

   The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, signaling the start of a perfect morning.

   Synonyms: fragrance, scent, odor

   Origin: from Latin 'aroma', meaning 'spice, scent'; from Greek 'arōma', meaning 'spice, fragrant'

4. hospitality · noun/ˌhɑː.spɪˈtæl.ɪ.ti/

   the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests or strangers

   The hotel is renowned for its exceptional hospitality, making every guest feel at home during their stay.

   Synonyms: cordiality, friendliness, warmth

   Origin: from Old French 'hospitalité', from Latin 'hospitalitas', from 'hospes' meaning 'host' or 'guest'

5. apex · noun/ˈeɪ.pɛks/

   the highest point or peak of something

   Climbing to the apex of the mountain required extensive training and perseverance.

   Synonyms: peak, summit, pinnacle

   Origin: Latin 'apex' meaning 'top, summit, peak'