justification, disgrace, strait, fame, loyalty: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 66. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. justification · noun/ˌdʒʌstɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

   the action of showing something to be right or reasonable

   The manager provided a clear justification for the sudden changes in the project timeline, convincing the team of their necessity.

   Synonyms: rationale, defense, explanation

   Origin: from Latin 'justificatio', from 'justificare' meaning 'to make just'

2. disgrace · noun/dɪsˈɡreɪs/

   loss of reputation or respect as a result of an act considered wrong or shameful

   The politician faced utter disgrace after being caught in a corruption scandal that shocked the nation.

   Synonyms: shame, dishonor, ignominy

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'desgracia', based on Latin 'disgratia' meaning lack of grace.

3. strait · noun/streɪt/

   a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water

   The ship passed through the strait between the two islands, enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding waters.

   Synonyms: channel, narrow, waterway

   Origin: Middle English 'streit', from Old French 'estreit', from Latin 'strictus', meaning 'tight, narrow'

4. fame · noun/feɪm/

   the state of being known or recognized by many people

   The actor's sudden rise to fame shocked everyone in the industry.

   Synonyms: renown, notoriety, celebrity

   Origin: Middle English 'fame', from Old French 'fame', from Latin 'fama' meaning 'report, rumor, reputation'.

5. loyalty · noun/ˈlɔɪəlti/

   a strong feeling of support or allegiance to someone or something

   His loyalty to his friends was unwavering, even in the toughest times.

   Synonyms: faithfulness, allegiance, devotion

   Origin: from Middle English 'loialte', from Old French 'loialté', derived from 'loial', which comes from Latin 'legitimus' meaning 'lawful' or 'legitimate'