rivet, abrasion, finale, lexicon, eccentricity: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 158. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. rivet · noun/ˈrɪv.ɪt/

   a short metal pin or bolt for holding together two plates of metal

   The engineers decided to use a strong rivet to secure the metal plates in the bridge's structure.

   Synonyms: fastener, bolt, pin

   Origin: Middle English 'rivet', from Old French 'rivet', diminutive of 'rive' meaning 'to split or tear'.

2. abrasion · noun/əˈbreɪʒ.ən/

   the process of scraping or wearing away of a surface

   The constant friction between the rocks and the riverbed led to significant abrasion of the surface over time.

   Synonyms: scraping, erosion, wear

   Origin: from Latin 'abrasio', from 'abradere' meaning 'to scrape off'

3. finale · noun/fɪˈnæl.eɪ/

   the concluding part of a performance or event

   The finale of the concert was breathtaking, with fireworks lighting up the sky as the last song was performed.

   Synonyms: conclusion, ending, close

   Origin: The word 'finale' comes from the Italian 'finale', meaning 'final', which derives from 'fine' meaning 'end' or 'finish'.

4. lexicon · noun/ˈlɛksɪˌkɑn/

   the vocabulary of a language or the words used in a particular context

   The child's lexicon expanded rapidly as she was introduced to new books and conversations.

   Synonyms: vocabulary, terminology

   Origin: The word 'lexicon' originates from the Greek 'lexikon,' which means 'wordbook' or 'dictionary.'

5. eccentricity · noun/ɛkˈsɛn.trɪ.sɪ.ti/

   the quality of being unconventional or slightly strange

   Her eccentricity was evident in her choice of outfits, often favoring mismatched patterns and bold colors.

   Synonyms: quirk, peculiarity, oddity

   Origin: From the Greek 'ekkentros', meaning 'out of the center'