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cosmos

noun/ˈkɑːz.məs/

the universe regarded as a well-ordered whole

Scientists have long been fascinated by the fundamental laws that govern the cosmos, seeking to understand its origins and the forces that shape it.

universecreationmacrocosm
word origin — from the Greek 'kosmos', meaning 'order, arrangement, world'

SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 2

Set 2 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: cosmos, enigma, satisfaction, consumption, determination. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. cosmos · noun/ˈkɑːz.məs/

    the universe regarded as a well-ordered whole

    Scientists have long been fascinated by the fundamental laws that govern the cosmos, seeking to understand its origins and the forces that shape it.

    Synonyms: universe, creation, macrocosm

    Origin: from the Greek 'kosmos', meaning 'order, arrangement, world'

  2. enigma · noun/ɪˈnɪɡ.mə/

    something that is mysterious or difficult to understand

    The artist's latest painting remains an enigma, leaving critics puzzled about its true meaning.

    Synonyms: mystery, puzzle, conundrum

    Origin: derived from the Latin word 'aenigma' and the Greek word 'ainigma', meaning 'to speak in riddles'.

  3. satisfaction · noun/ˌsætɪsˈfækʃən/

    the feeling of pleasure or contentment resulting from the fulfillment of a desire or need

    After finishing the project ahead of schedule, she felt a deep sense of satisfaction with her team's hard work.

    Synonyms: contentment, fulfillment, gratification

    Origin: from Latin 'satisfactio', meaning 'a making sufficient, fulfilling' (from 'satisfacere', meaning 'to make enough')

  4. consumption · noun/kənˈsʌmpʃən/

    the act of using up a resource or the process of consuming goods and services

    High levels of energy consumption can lead to increased pollution and depletion of natural resources.

    Synonyms: utilization, expenditure, use

    Origin: from Latin 'consumptio', from 'consumere' meaning 'to use up, spend, waste'

  5. determination · noun/ˌdɪtərˈmɪneɪʃən/

    the quality of being resolute or firm in purpose

    Her determination to succeed in her career motivated her to work long hours and take on challenging projects.

    Synonyms: resolution, firmness, resolve

    Origin: from Latin 'determinatio', from 'determinare' meaning 'to set limits, define'.