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protagonist

noun/prəˈtæɡənɪst/

the main character in a story, play, or novel around whom the plot revolves

In the novel, the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery that transforms her life.

main characterleading characterhero
word origin — The word 'protagonist' originates from the Greek 'protagonistes', meaning 'the first actor' or 'one who plays the leading role'.

SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 161

Set 161 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: protagonist, coercion, entomology, egress, rivalry. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. protagonist · noun/prəˈtæɡənɪst/

    the main character in a story, play, or novel around whom the plot revolves

    In the novel, the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery that transforms her life.

    Synonyms: main character, leading character, hero

    Origin: The word 'protagonist' originates from the Greek 'protagonistes', meaning 'the first actor' or 'one who plays the leading role'.

  2. coercion · noun/koʊˈɜrʒən/

    the practice of forcing someone to act in a certain way by use of threats or pressure

    The employees felt that they were under coercion to meet unrealistic sales targets set by their management.

    Synonyms: compulsion, intimidation, duress

    Origin: from Latin 'coercionem', from 'coercere', meaning 'to restrain, confine'.

  3. entomology · noun/ˌɛn.təˈmɑː.lə.dʒi/

    the scientific study of insects

    The field of entomology provides valuable insights into the behaviors and life cycles of various insect species.

    Synonyms: insect study, insect science, arthropodology

    Origin: from the Greek 'entomon' meaning 'insect' and 'logia' meaning 'study' or 'discourse'

  4. egress · noun/ˈiːɡrɛs/

    the act of going out or leaving a place

    In case of an emergency, the building's egress routes must be clearly marked to ensure a swift evacuation.

    Synonyms: exit, departure, fleeing

    Origin: from Latin 'egressus', the past participle of 'egredi', meaning 'to go out'.

  5. rivalry · noun/ˈraɪvəlri/

    the competition between two or more parties for the same objective or superiority

    The long-standing rivalry between the two football teams fueled intense competition during the championship season.

    Synonyms: competition, contest, rivalry

    Origin: from Old French 'rivalite', Latin 'rivalitas', from 'rivalis' meaning 'one who uses the same stream' or 'one belonging to the same bank' referring to competition.