moderation, partisan, mischief, insecurity, rehearsal: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 101. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. moderation · noun/ˌmɑːdəˈreɪʃən/

   the avoidance of excess or extremes in behavior or attitude

   Practicing moderation in our eating habits can lead to better health outcomes.

   Synonyms: temperance, restraint, balance

   Origin: from Latin 'moderatio', from 'moderare' meaning 'to restrain'

2. partisan · noun/ˈpɑrtɪzən/

   a strong supporter of a party, cause, or person

   The partisan rallied the crowd with passionate speeches about the upcoming election.

   Synonyms: supporter, advocate, follower

   Origin: From Middle French 'partisan', from Italian 'partigiano', from 'parte' (part).

3. mischief · noun/ˈmɪsʧɪf/

   behavior that causes harm or trouble to others

   The children were always up to some mischief, stealing cookies from the jar when they thought no one was looking.

   Synonyms: naughtiness, trouble, wrongdoing

   Origin: Middle English mischef, from Old French meschief, from meschever (to mishap), from mes- (wrongly) + chever (to happen, to fall out)

4. insecurity · noun/ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊrɪti/

   a feeling of uncertainty or anxiety about oneself

   Her constant comparison to others fueled her insecurity about her appearance.

   Synonyms: self-doubt, uncertainty

   Origin: from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'security' derived from Latin 'securitas', meaning 'safety, freedom from care or anxiety'

5. rehearsal · noun/rɪˈhɜrsl/

   a practice or review of a performance or presentation

   We have a dress rehearsal scheduled for tomorrow to finalize the staging of the play.

   Synonyms: practice, run-through, drill

   Origin: Middle French 'rehearsal', from 're-' meaning 'again' and 'hercier', meaning 'to hear'