triumph, kernel, alloy, bulk, witness: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 207. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. triumph · noun/ˈtraɪʌmf/

   a great victory or achievement

   The team's victory in the championship was a significant triumph that they had worked hard to achieve.

   Synonyms: victory, success, achievement

   Origin: from Latin 'triumphus', from Greek 'thriambos', originally a hymn in honor of Dionysus

2. kernel · noun/ˈkɜrnəl/

   the central or most important part of something

   The kernel of truth in her story made it much more relatable to the audience.

   Synonyms: core, essence, nucleus

   Origin: Middle English 'kernell', diminutive of 'corn', from Old English 'cyrnel' meaning 'grain or seed'

3. alloy · noun/əˈlɔɪ/

   a mixture of two or more metals or a metal and another element

   The construction team decided to use a high-strength alloy for the new bridge to ensure durability and safety.

   Synonyms: blend, mixture, compound

   Origin: from Latin 'alligare' meaning 'to bind together'

4. bulk · noun/bʌlk/

   the large mass or volume of something

   We decided to order the supplies in bulk to save on costs.

   Synonyms: mass, volume, size

   Origin: from Middle English 'bulke', possibly from Old Norse 'bylkr' meaning 'a bundle or bungle'.

5. witness · noun/ˈwɪtnəs/

   one who sees an event, typically a crime or accident, or one who gives testimony in a legal setting

   The police are looking for a witness to the robbery who can provide more details about what happened.

   Synonyms: observer, bystander, testimony

   Origin: Middle English, from Old English 'witnes', from 'witan' which means to know