quay, hangar, hulk, clemency, fanfare: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 121. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. quay · noun/ki/

   a structure built on the shore of a harbor where ships may dock to load and unload

   The cargo ship arrived at the quay early in the morning to begin unloading its goods.

   Synonyms: wharf, dock, pier

   Origin: from Middle English 'key', ultimately from Old French ' quai', meaning 'platform, bank', deriving from the Latin 'cata' or 'caput', meaning 'to seize'.

2. hangar · noun/ˈhæŋɚ/

   a large building for storing and maintaining aircraft

   The airport's new hangar can accommodate up to five large aircraft at once.

   Synonyms: shed, barn, shelter

   Origin: the word 'hangar' comes from the Old French 'hangars' meaning 'to fasten' or 'to dock,' originally referring to a shed or shelter.

3. hulk · noun/hʌlk/

   a large, powerful person or thing

   The hulk of a man effortlessly lifted the heavy stone, showing off his impressive strength.

   Synonyms: giant, behemoth, colossus

   Origin: Middle English hulke, from the Old Norse hulkr, meaning a ship or a hull.

4. clemency · noun/ˈklɛmənsi/

   leniency or mercy shown towards an offender

   The judge decided to grant clemency to the first-time offender, considering his difficult upbringing.

   Synonyms: mercy, leniency, forgiveness

   Origin: Late Middle English, from Old French 'clémence' or from Latin 'clementia', meaning 'mildness, gentleness'.

5. fanfare · noun/ˈfæn.fɛr/

   a showy display or extravagant celebration

   The event opened with great fanfare, showcasing the city’s rich culture and vibrant traditions.

   Synonyms: parade, spectacle, celebration

   Origin: The word 'fanfare' comes from the French word 'fanfare', which is of imitative origin, likely representing the sound of a trumpet.