anomaly, compromise, enemy, cloud, compliment: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 216. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. anomaly · noun/əˈnɑː.mə.li/

   something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected

   The scientist discovered an anomaly in the data that suggested a flaw in the experiment's design.

   Synonyms: abnormality, deviation, irregularity

   Origin: from the Greek 'anomalía', meaning 'unevenness' or 'irregularity'

2. compromise · noun/ˈkɑːmprəmaɪz/

   an agreement reached by adjustment of conflicting or opposing claims

   After hours of discussion, they finally reached a compromise that satisfied both parties.

   Synonyms: agreement, settlement, concession

   Origin: from Latin 'compromissum', meaning 'a promise made mutually' (from 'com-' meaning 'together' and 'promissum' meaning 'promise')

3. enemy · noun/ˈɛnəmi/

   a person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something

   During the cold war, many countries considered each other as enemy nations, with tensions frequently escalating.

   Synonyms: foe, adversary, opponent

   Origin: From Old French 'enemie', from Latin 'inimicus', meaning 'hostile' or 'unfriendly'.

4. cloud · noun/klaʊd/

   a visible mass of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere

   The sky was filled with fluffy white clouds, casting shadows over the grassy field.

   Synonyms: mist, vapor, fog

   Origin: Old English 'clud', meaning 'a hill or mass of rock' that evolved to refer to a visible mass of condensation.

5. compliment · noun/ˈkɑmplɪmənt/

   a polite expression of praise or admiration

   She received a lovely compliment about her dress at the party, which made her day.

   Synonyms: praise, flattery

   Origin: from Latin 'complementum', meaning 'that which completes', from 'comple' meaning 'to complete'