ubiquitous, quirky, craven, colossal, indigent: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 181. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ubiquitous · adjective/juˈbɪkwɪtəs/

   present everywhere at the same time

   In today's digital age, smartphones have become a ubiquitous presence in our daily lives.

   Synonyms: omnipresent, universal, prevalent

   Origin: from Latin 'ubique', meaning 'everywhere'

2. quirky · adjective/ˈkwɜrki/

   having unconventional or unique characteristics or behaviors

   Her quirky sense of humor always keeps everyone entertained at the party.

   Synonyms: eccentric, unusual, unconventional

   Origin: The word 'quirky' is derived from the word 'quirk', which means a peculiar or unexpected trait, and it has been used in this sense since the mid-20th century.

3. craven · adjective/ˈkreɪ.vən/

   contemptibly lacking in courage; cowardly

   His craven actions during the crisis revealed his true character, as he chose to flee rather than face the danger head-on.

   Synonyms: cowardly, cringing, timid

   Origin: Middle English from Old French 'cravain', derived from 'craver' meaning 'to crave or beg'.

4. colossal · adjective/kəˈlɑː.səl/

   very large in size, extent, or degree

   The colossal skyscraper dominated the skyline, making all the other buildings look tiny in comparison.

   Synonyms: enormous, gigantic, huge

   Origin: from Latin 'colossalis,' from 'colossus' meaning 'giant statue'

5. indigent · adjective/ˈɪn.dɪ.dʒənt/

   lacking basic necessities of life due to extreme poverty

   The charity organization focused on providing shelter and food for the indigent population living in the city.

   Synonyms: impoverished, destitute, needy

   Origin: from Latin 'indigentem', meaning 'needy, poor'