density, burrow, involvement, oasis, routine: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 127. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. density · noun/ˈdɛn.sɪ.ti/

   the mass of a substance per unit volume

   The density of water is about 1 gram per cubic centimeter, which is why it floats on oil.

   Synonyms: thickness, compactness, solidity

   Origin: From Latin 'densus' meaning 'thick, compact'.

2. burrow · noun/ˈbɜːroʊ/

   a hole or tunnel dug by a small animal for habitation or refuge

   The rabbit quickly retreated into its burrow when it sensed danger nearby.

   Synonyms: den, hole, tunnel

   Origin: Middle English 'burwe', from Old English 'burh' meaning a fortified place, later used to denote a hole or tunnel.

3. involvement · noun/ɪnˈvɑːlvmənt/

   the state of being included or engaged in an activity or a situation

   Her involvement in the community project helped to improve many lives.

   Synonyms: participation, engagement, inclusion

   Origin: The word 'involvement' originates from the late 19th century, derived from 'involve' which comes from the Latin 'involvere', meaning 'to roll into, envelop'.

4. oasis · noun/oʊˈeɪsɪs/

   a fertile spot in a desert where water is found

   After days of trekking through the arid landscape, we finally discovered a lush oasis where palm trees swayed and water flowed freely.

   Synonyms: sanctuary, refuge, haven

   Origin: from Greek 'oasis', which comes from Egyptian 'wḥ3w' meaning 'dwelling place'.

5. routine · noun/ruˈtin/

   a sequence of actions regularly followed

   Every morning, I follow my usual routine of jogging and then having breakfast.

   Synonyms: procedure, habit, regimen

   Origin: French 'routine', from 'route' meaning 'way' or 'path'