ornate, inflexible, steadfast, manipulative, admirable: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 160. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ornate · adjective/ɔrˈneɪt/

   elaborately decorated or adorned

   The ornate decorations on the wedding cake made it a centerpiece of the celebration.

   Synonyms: elaborate, adorned, decorated

   Origin: from Latin 'ornatus', past participle of 'ornare', meaning 'to adorn'

2. inflexible · adjective/ɪnˈflɛksəbl/

   not able to be changed or adapted

   The company's inflexible policies made it difficult for employees to adapt to their changing needs.

   Synonyms: rigid, unyielding, non-adaptable

   Origin: The word 'inflexible' originates from the Latin 'inflexibilis', which is composed of 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'flexibilis' meaning 'capable of bending'.

3. steadfast · adjective/ˈstɛdˌfæst/

   firmly loyal or constant in purpose, resolve, or faith

   Despite the challenges they faced, her steadfast support for her friend never wavered.

   Synonyms: loyal, unwavering, resolute

   Origin: Middle English 'stedfast', from Old English 'stedefæst', meaning 'standing firm'

4. manipulative · adjective/məˈnɪp.jə.lə.tɪv/

   influencing or controlling someone in a clever or unscrupulous way

   She has a manipulative personality, always finding ways to get what she wants without considering others' feelings.

   Synonyms: controlling, scheming, deceitful

   Origin: The word 'manipulative' originates from the Latin word 'manipulativus', which stems from 'manipulus', meaning 'handful'; 'manus' means 'hand'.

5. admirable · adjective/ˈæd.mɪr.ə.bəl/

   worthy of admiration or respect

   Her admirable dedication to volunteer work has inspired many in the community.

   Synonyms: commendable, laudable, worthy

   Origin: Late Middle English from Latin 'admirabilis', from 'admirari', meaning 'to wonder at'