SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 43

Set 43 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: captive, philosophical, precious, credible, gourmet. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. captive · adjective/ˈkæptɪv/

   held under control or confinement

   The animal rescue organization worked tirelessly to rehabilitate captive wildlife and prepare them for eventual release into their natural habitats.

   Synonyms: imprisoned, confined, restrained

   Origin: from Latin 'captivus', meaning 'taken captive, seized', from 'capere', meaning 'to seize'.

2. philosophical · adjective/ˌfɪləˈsɑfɪkəl/

   relating to the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence

   His philosophical inquiries often led him to question the very nature of reality and existence.

   Synonyms: theoretical, abstract, speculative

   Origin: from Middle French 'philosophique', derived from Latin 'philosophicus' and Greek 'philosophikos', which comes from 'philosophia' meaning 'philosophy'

3. precious · adjective/ˈprɛʃ.əs/

   of great value or high worth

   The necklace was a precious heirloom, passed down through generations of her family.

   Synonyms: valuable, cherished, treasured

   Origin: The word 'precious' comes from the Latin word 'pretiosus', meaning 'expensive' or 'costly', which is derived from 'pretium' meaning 'price' or 'value'.

4. credible · adjective/ˈkrɛdɪbəl/

   believable or trustworthy based on evidence or reliability

   The scientist's research presented credible evidence that supported her theory about climate change.

   Synonyms: believable, reliable, trustworthy

   Origin: from Latin 'credibilis', from 'credere' meaning 'to believe'

5. gourmet · adjective/ɡʊrˈmeɪ/

   of or relating to fine food and drink or the preparation of such food

   The restaurant is known for its gourmet cuisine, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the city.

   Synonyms: epicurean, culinary, exquisite

   Origin: The word 'gourmet' originates from the French term 'gourmet,' meaning a wine broker or a taster, which itself comes from the Old French 'gromet,' meaning a servant or a swineherd.