SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 159

Set 159 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: jade, resistance, climax, diligence, skirt. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. jade · noun/dʒeɪd/

   a hard typically green mineral often used in jewelry and ornaments

   The artisan crafted a stunning necklace adorned with delicate jade beads that glimmered in the light.

   Synonyms: nephrite, jadeite, greenstone

   Origin: from Spanish 'piedra de ijada' meaning 'stone of the flanks', due to its historical use in treating kidney ailments.

2. resistance · noun/rɪˈzɪstəns/

   the ability to resist or withstand opposing forces or influences

   The scientist tested the material's **resistance** to heat, ensuring it could withstand extreme temperatures.

   Synonyms: opposition, defiance, endurance

   Origin: from Latin 'resistentia', from 'resistens', present participle of 'resistere', meaning 'to stand firm against'

3. climax · noun/ˈklaɪmæks/

   the most intense, exciting, or important point of something

   The climax of the movie left the audience breathless and on the edge of their seats.

   Synonyms: peak, culmination, pinnacle

   Origin: From Latin 'climax', meaning 'ladder' or 'stairway', which is derived from Greek 'klimax', signifying 'stair' or 'ladder'.

4. diligence · noun/ˈdɪl.ɪ.dʒəns/

   careful and persistent effort or work

   Her diligence in completing the project ahead of schedule impressed her supervisors.

   Synonyms: perseverance, industriousness, attentiveness

   Origin: from Old French 'diligence', from Latin 'diligentia', from 'diligere' meaning 'to value, love, esteem'.

5. skirt · noun/skɜrt/

   a woman's outer garment fastened around the waist and hanging down around the legs

   She wore a beautiful long skirt that flowed elegantly as she walked.

   Synonyms: dress, kilt, petticoat

   Origin: from Old Norse 'skyrta', meaning 'shirt'