relating to or considering the whole rather than just parts
example
The therapist took a holistic approach to wellness, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and mental aspects of her client's health.
synonyms
comprehensiveintegratedoverall
word origin — The word 'holistic' originates from the Greek word 'holos,' meaning 'whole' or 'entire.' The term became widely used in the early 20th century, particularly in the context of medicine and philosophy.
SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 67
Set 67 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: holistic, voluntary, bizarre, revolutionary, devious. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
holistic · adjective/hoʊˈlɪs.tɪk/
relating to or considering the whole rather than just parts
The therapist took a holistic approach to wellness, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and mental aspects of her client's health.
Synonyms: comprehensive, integrated, overall
Origin: The word 'holistic' originates from the Greek word 'holos,' meaning 'whole' or 'entire.' The term became widely used in the early 20th century, particularly in the context of medicine and philosophy.
voluntary · adjective/ˈvɑːlənˌtɛri/
done, made, or given freely or intentionally
She made a voluntary donation to the local animal shelter, showing her commitment to help those in need.
Synonyms: willing, intentional, elective
Origin: from Latin 'voluntarius', meaning 'of one's free will'
bizarre · adjective/bɪˈzɑr/
very strange or unusual
The movie was filled with bizarre twists that kept the audience guessing until the very end.
Synonyms: strange, unusual, odd
Origin: The word 'bizarre' originates from the French word of the same spelling, meaning 'strange or odd', which may derive from the Italian word 'bizarro', meaning 'brave' or 'handsome', though the exact etymology is uncertain.
revolutionary · adjective/ˌrɛvəˈluːʃəˌnɛri/
bringing about significant change or innovation
The invention of the internet was a revolutionary development that completely transformed communication and information sharing.
Synonyms: transformative, groundbreaking, radical
Origin: from late Middle English, from Old French 'révolutionnaire', derived from 'révolution' (Latin 'revolutionem') meaning 'a turn around'
devious · adjective/ˈdiːviəs/
showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals
The politician devised a devious plan to undermine his opponents and secure his position.
Synonyms: sly, cunning, duplicitous
Origin: From Middle English 'devious', from Latin 'devius', meaning 'out of the way' or 'off the path'.