crucial, artificial, baroque, mutual, violent: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 47. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. crucial · adjective/ˈkruː.ʃəl/

   extremely important or necessary

   Good communication is crucial for the success of any team project.

   Synonyms: critical, essential, vital

   Origin: from Latin 'crucialis', from 'crux' meaning 'cross'

2. artificial · adjective/ˌɑːr.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl/

   made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally

   The scientist created an artificial intelligence that can learn and adapt to new information.

   Synonyms: fake, synthetic, imitation

   Origin: from Latin 'artificialis', which comes from 'artificium' meaning 'skill, craftsmanship', and 'artus' meaning 'skillful'.

3. baroque · adjective/bəˈroʊk/

   a style of art, architecture, and music characterized by ornate detail and dramatic expression

   The newly restored church features stunning baroque architecture that draws visitors from around the world.

   Synonyms: ornate, elaborate, flamboyant

   Origin: Borrowed from French 'baroque', which is derived from the Spanish 'barroco', meaning bizarre or irregular pearl; relates to 'barroco' from the Late Latin 'barroccus' meaning rough or imperfect.

4. mutual · adjective/ˈmjuːtʃuəl/

   shared by two or more parties

   The two companies decided to enter into a mutual agreement to collaborate on the new project.

   Synonyms: shared, reciprocal, common

   Origin: from Latin 'mutualis', from 'mutuus' meaning 'borrowed' or 'exchanged'

5. violent · adjective/ˈvaɪələnt/

   involving physical force intended to hurt or damage

   The violent storm uprooted trees and caused widespread destruction in the town.

   Synonyms: ferocious, fierce, brutal

   Origin: from Latin 'violentus', meaning 'vehement, impetuous', from 'vis' meaning 'force'