SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 266

Set 266 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: stunt, barrier, conjecture, gesture, trigger. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. stunt · noun/stʌnt/

   an action or performance involving difficult or dangerous physical feats

   The movie was filled with breathtaking stunts that left the audience on the edge of their seats.

   Synonyms: performance, trick, feat

   Origin: Middle English 'stunten', meaning 'to stop short' or 'to come to an abrupt halt'.

2. barrier · noun/ˈber.i.ər/

   a physical or metaphorical obstacle that prevents passage or progress

   The language barrier made it difficult for them to communicate effectively during the meeting.

   Synonyms: obstacle, hurdle, fence

   Origin: From Middle French 'barrière', from 'barre' meaning 'bar, rod'; ultimately from Latin 'barra'.

3. conjecture · noun/kənˈdʒek.tʃɚ/

   an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information

   The scientist's conjecture about the existence of dark matter sparked intense debate among her peers.

   Synonyms: guess, assumption, speculation

   Origin: from Latin 'conjectura', meaning 'a joining together, inference, interpretation'

4. gesture · noun/ˈdʒɛs.tʃɚ/

   a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling

   Her gesture of kindness towards the stray dog made everyone smile.

   Synonyms: sign, motion, indication

   Origin: From Middle French 'gestuelle', from Latin 'gesturus', the future participle of 'gerere', meaning 'to bear, carry'.

5. trigger · noun/ˈtrɪɡər/

   an event or situation that causes something to happen

   The sudden change in weather served as a trigger for the city's increased allergy cases this spring.

   Synonyms: catalyst, prompt, impetus

   Origin: Middle Dutch 'trigger,' meaning 'to pull' or 'to draw.'