solar, intentional, influential, erroneous, witless: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 227. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. solar · adjective/ˈsoʊlər/

   relating to or derived from the sun

   The solar panels on the roof effectively convert sunlight into electricity.

   Synonyms: sunny, sunlight, diurnal

   Origin: from Latin 'solar' meaning 'of the sun', from 'sol' meaning 'sun'

2. intentional · adjective/ɪnˈtɛnʃənl/

   done with purpose or intent

   His intentional choice of words during the speech made it clear that he was addressing the issue delicately.

   Synonyms: deliberate, calculated, purposeful

   Origin: From Latin 'intentio', meaning 'a stretching out or aim' from 'intendere' meaning 'to stretch out, to strive'

3. influential · adjective/ˌɪn.fluˈɛn.ʃəl/

   having the power to affect people or things

   Her influential advice helped me make crucial decisions in my career.

   Synonyms: impactful, powerful, significant

   Origin: from the Latin 'influentialis', which derives from 'influere' meaning 'to flow into'

4. erroneous · adjective/ɪˈroʊniəs/

   containing mistakes or errors

   The report was filled with erroneous data that misled the researchers.

   Synonyms: incorrect, mistaken, faulty

   Origin: Late Latin 'erroneus', meaning 'wandering, straying,' from 'errare' meaning 'to stray, to wander.'

5. witless · adjective/ˈwɪt.ləs/

   lacking intelligence or understanding

   His witless comments during the meeting only made the situation worse.

   Synonyms: foolish, dull, simple-minded

   Origin: Middle English 'witless', from 'wit' + '-less'