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seismic

adjective/ˈsaɪz.mɪk/

relating to or caused by earthquakes or other vibrations of the earth

The region experienced severe seismic activity, leading to widespread damage in the surrounding areas.

tremorconvulsivetectonic
word origin — from the Greek word 'seismos,' meaning 'earthquake.'

SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 18

Set 18 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: seismic, impatient, fertile, irreverent, extravagant. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. seismic · adjective/ˈsaɪz.mɪk/

    relating to or caused by earthquakes or other vibrations of the earth

    The region experienced severe seismic activity, leading to widespread damage in the surrounding areas.

    Synonyms: tremor, convulsive, tectonic

    Origin: from the Greek word 'seismos,' meaning 'earthquake.'

  2. impatient · adjective/ɪmˈpeɪ.ʃənt/

    having a tendency to be restless or short-tempered due to delays or frustration

    She became increasingly impatient while waiting for the delayed train to arrive.

    Synonyms: restless, irritable, testy

    Origin: From Latin 'impatientem', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'pati' meaning 'to endure'

  3. fertile · adjective/ˈfɜr.tl/

    capable of producing abundant vegetation or crops

    The farmers were grateful for the fertile soil, which allowed them to grow a bountiful harvest every year.

    Synonyms: fruitful, productive, fecund

    Origin: from Latin 'fertilis', from 'ferre' meaning 'to bear or carry'

  4. irreverent · adjective/ɪˈrɛvərənt/

    showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously

    The comedian's irreverent humor often targets sacred cultural icons, leaving some audience members both laughing and offended.

    Synonyms: disrespectful, flippant, contemptuous

    Origin: Originating in the late 15th century, from the Latin 'irreverentem', the present participle of 'irrevereri' meaning 'to not respect'.

  5. extravagant · adjective/ɪkˈstrævəɡənt/

    exceeding what is reasonable or appropriate; lavish or elaborate

    The couple hosted an extravagant wedding, complete with fireworks and a gourmet feast that left their guests in awe.

    Synonyms: lavish, excessive, elaborate

    Origin: Late Latin 'extravagantes', meaning 'wandering beyond' or 'straying', from 'extra' (beyond) + 'vagari' (to wander)