diplomatic, noisy, systematic, graceless, lunar: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 274. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. diplomatic · adjective/ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk/

   relating to the management of relationships between countries

   The two nations reached a diplomatic agreement to resolve their long-standing disputes peacefully.

   Synonyms: tactful, conciliatory

   Origin: from Middle French 'diplomatique', from Latin 'diplomaticus', from 'diploma' (document, official letter)

2. noisy · adjective/ˈnɔɪ.zi/

   characterized by or producing a loud or discordant sound

   The construction site next door was incredibly noisy, making it hard to concentrate on my work.

   Synonyms: loud, boisterous, clamorous

   Origin: Middle English *nois, from Old French *noise, from Latin *nausea meaning 'sickness, seasickness', probably related to the disturbance caused by loud sounds.

3. systematic · adjective/ˌsɪs.təˈmætɪk/

   done or acting according to a fixed plan or system

   The researchers conducted a systematic review of the literature to ensure all relevant studies were included.

   Synonyms: methodical, organized, structured

   Origin: The word 'systematic' originates from the Greek word 'systematikos', which means 'of or pertaining to a system'.

4. graceless · adjective/ˈɡreɪs.ləs/

   lacking elegance or charm

   His graceless manner of speaking made it difficult for him to connect with his audience.

   Synonyms: ungainly, clumsy, awkward

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'graceless', combining 'grace' with the suffix '-less', indicating lack of grace or charm.

5. lunar · adjective/ˈlunər/

   relating to the moon

   The lunar landscape was dotted with craters and valleys, a testament to its violent history.

   Synonyms: moony, selenic, moonlike

   Origin: from Latin 'lunar', from 'luna' meaning 'moon'