SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 183

Set 183 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: canter, wasteland, tonic, bastion, obscurity. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. canter · noun/ˈkæntɚ/

   a smooth, easy gait of a horse between a trot and a gallop

   The horse moved smoothly through the field at a relaxed canter, enjoying the gentle breeze against its coat.

   Synonyms: trot, lope, gallop

   Origin: The word 'canter' is derived from 'Canterbury', referring to a type of horse gait that was originally popular among the Canterbury pilgrims in the 17th century.

2. wasteland · noun/ˈweɪstˌlænd/

   an empty or desolate area devoid of life or resources

   After the industrial plant closed, the surrounding area turned into a barren wasteland, void of any vegetation or wildlife.

   Synonyms: barren land, desert, wasteland

   Origin: Middle English 'wasteland', from 'waste' + 'land'

3. tonic · noun/ˈtɑnɪk/

   a medicinal substance taken to give a feeling of vigor or well-being

   After feeling run down for weeks, she decided to take a natural tonic to boost her energy levels.

   Synonyms: stimulant, restorative, elixir

   Origin: From Late Latin 'tonic' (tonicum), from Greek 'tonikos' meaning 'of or pertaining to tension, tonic'.

4. bastion · noun/ˈbæs.tʃən/

   a stronghold or defensive structure

   The ancient castle stood as a bastion against invading forces, its thick walls providing a strong defense.

   Synonyms: stronghold, fortress, bulwark

   Origin: from French 'bastion', from Italian 'bastione', from 'bastire' meaning 'to build'

5. obscurity · noun/əbˈskjʊr.ɪ.ti/

   the state of being unknown or inconspicuous

   Despite her initial obscurity, she eventually gained recognition in the art world.

   Synonyms: ambiguity, anonymity, inconspuity

   Origin: from Middle French 'obscurité', from Latin 'obscuritas', from 'obscurus' meaning 'dark, dim'