arid, vital, adequate, fond, colonial: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 19. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. arid · adjective/ˈær.ɪd/

   lacking sufficient moisture or interest

   The arid climate of the desert makes it difficult for many plants to survive.

   Synonyms: dry, barren, parched

   Origin: From Latin 'aridus', meaning 'dry, parched'.

2. vital · adjective/ˈvaɪ.tl/

   absolutely necessary or essential

   It is vital to maintain a healthy diet for overall well-being.

   Synonyms: essential, critical, crucial

   Origin: from Latin 'vitalis' meaning 'of life', from 'vita' meaning 'life'

3. adequate · adjective/ˈædɪkwət/

   sufficient in quality or quantity to meet the needs

   The teacher provided adequate resources for all students to complete their projects successfully.

   Synonyms: sufficient, acceptable, satisfactory

   Origin: from Latin 'adaequatus', which is the past participle of 'adaequāre' meaning 'to make equal'

4. fond · adjective/fɔnd/

   having a strong affection or liking for someone or something

   She is very fond of her dog, always taking it for long walks in the park.

   Synonyms: affectionate, loving, devoted

   Origin: from Middle English 'fund', from Old English 'fōnd', meaning 'foolish, silly', evolved to indicate warmth of feeling.

5. colonial · adjective/kəˈloʊ.ni.əl/

   relating to or characteristic of a colony or colonies

   The colonial era marked a period of significant cultural exchange and conflict between the native populations and European settlers.

   Synonyms: settler, imperial, colonialist

   Origin: from Latin 'colonialis', from 'colonia' meaning 'farm' or 'settlement'