volatile, sovereign, inflammatory, impressive, humanitarian: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 293. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. volatile · adjective/ˈvɑːl.ə.taɪl/

   liable to change rapidly and unpredictably especially for the worse

   The stock market has become increasingly volatile, with prices swinging dramatically from one day to the next.

   Synonyms: unstable, changeable, erratic

   Origin: from Latin 'volatilis' meaning 'flight', from 'volare' meaning 'to fly'

2. sovereign · noun/ˈsɑː.vər.ən/

   a supreme ruler or authority

   The sovereign of the kingdom made a historic decision that altered the course of its future.

   Synonyms: monarch, ruler

   Origin: From Old French 'souverain', which means 'superior', derived from Latin 'superanus', meaning 'above' or 'over'.

3. inflammatory · adjective/ɪnˈflæmətɔri/

   relating to or causing inflammation or swelling

   The physician advised her to avoid inflammatory foods that could exacerbate her condition.

   Synonyms: irritant, provocative, aggrieving

   Origin: from Latin 'inflammatorius', from 'inflammare' which means 'to set on fire'

4. impressive · adjective/ɪmˈprɛsɪv/

   evoking admiration through size, quality, or skill

   The impressive architecture of the ancient temple left all the visitors in awe.

   Synonyms: striking, remarkable, stunning

   Origin: The word 'impressive' originates from the Latin 'impressivus', which means 'having an effect', derived from 'imprimere', meaning 'to press into'.

5. humanitarian · adjective/ˌhjuːməˈtɛriən/

   concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare and social reform

   The organization's humanitarian efforts provided essential aid to thousands displaced by the natural disaster.

   Synonyms: philanthropic, altruistic, benevolent

   Origin: From Latin 'humanitarianus,' from 'humanus' meaning 'human.'