SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 319

Set 319 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: cessation, devotion, tension, transformation, trap. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. cessation · noun/səˈseɪʃən/

   the act of bringing to an end or stopping

   The cessation of hostilities allowed for the beginning of peace negotiations between the two countries.

   Synonyms: stopping, termination, halt

   Origin: Latin 'cessatio', from 'cessare' meaning 'to cease'

2. devotion · noun/dɪˈvoʊʃən/

   profound dedication or commitment to a cause, person, or belief

   Her unwavering devotion to her family has always inspired those around her.

   Synonyms: dedication, loyalty, commitment

   Origin: from Middle English devocion, from Latin devotio(n-), from the verb devovēre meaning 'to devote'.

3. tension · noun/ˈtɛn.ʃən/

   the state of being stretched tight or a mental or emotional strain

   The tension in the room was palpable as everyone awaited the announcement of the winner.

   Synonyms: strain, pressure, stress

   Origin: from Latin 'tensionem', meaning 'a stretching, a straining', from 'tendere' meaning 'to stretch'

4. transformation · noun/trænsfərˈmeɪʃən/

   a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance

   The city's transformation into a modern metropolis has amazed its residents, as old buildings have been replaced with sleek skyscrapers.

   Synonyms: change, alteration, conversion

   Origin: from Latin 'transformare' which means 'to change in shape or form', comprising 'trans-' meaning 'across' and 'formare' meaning 'to form'

5. trap · noun/træp/

   a device or situation designed to catch or confine something

   The hunter set a trap in the woods to catch the elusive fox.

   Synonyms: snare, cage, catcher

   Origin: Middle English 'trappe', from Old French 'trappe', probably from Medieval Latin 'trappa', a variant of 'trappa', meaning 'to catch'.