SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 132

Set 132 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: specificity, quail, jest, disdain, harbinger. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. specificity · noun/spəˈsɪf.ɪ.sɪ.ti/

   the quality of being specific or precise

   The specificity of the research methods greatly influenced the accuracy of the results.

   Synonyms: precision, exactness, distinctness

   Origin: From Latin 'specificus', meaning 'special, particular'.

2. quail · noun/kwɛl/

   a small to medium-sized game bird known for its plump body and distinctive call

   The hunters set out early in the morning, eager to catch a few quail for dinner.

   Synonyms: grouse, partridge, pheasant

   Origin: Middle English 'quaille' from Old French 'quaille', of uncertain origin

3. jest · noun/dʒɛst/

   a humorous or joking remark

   His comment was made in jest, but it still managed to offend a few people in the room.

   Synonyms: jest, joke, quip

   Origin: Middle English 'geste', from Old French 'geste', meaning a narrative or a tale, originating from Latin 'gesta', meaning deeds.

4. disdain · noun/dɪsˈdeɪn/

   the feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one's consideration or respect

   Her disdain for his lack of ambition was evident in every conversation they had.

   Synonyms: contempt, scorn, derision

   Origin: from Middle English 'disdein', derived from Old French 'desdeign', from Latin 'dēspicere' meaning 'to look down upon'.

5. harbinger · noun/ˈhɑrbɪndʒər/

   a person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another

   The sudden drop in temperature was a harbinger of the harsh winter to come.

   Synonyms: precursor, forerunner, omen

   Origin: from Middle English 'herbengere', from Old French 'herberger' meaning 'to provide lodging' (in reference to the person who provides lodging for travelers).