infrequent, sleek, subordinate, convoluted, receptive: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 206. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. infrequent · adjective/ɪnˈfriːkwənt/

   occurring rarely or not often

   Visits from my old friends are infrequent, making each one feel special.

   Synonyms: rare, uncommon, sporadic

   Origin: from Latin 'infrequentem', meaning 'rare'.

2. sleek · adjective/slik/

   having a smooth, glossy, or streamlined appearance or design

   The sleek design of the new sports car caught everyone's attention at the auto show.

   Synonyms: smooth, glossy, elegant

   Origin: The word 'sleek' originates from the Old Norse word 'slikr,' meaning smooth or polished.

3. subordinate · adjective/səˈbɔrdənət/

   lower in rank or importance

   In the company's hierarchy, the assistant was considered a subordinate employee, reporting directly to the manager.

   Synonyms: inferior, secondary, lesser

   Origin: From Latin 'subordinatus', past participle of 'subordinare' meaning 'to arrange in order'.

4. convoluted · adjective/ˌkɑːn.vəˈluː.tɪd/

   complex and difficult to follow

   The plot of the novel was so convoluted that many readers found it hard to keep track of the characters and their motivations.

   Synonyms: complicated, intricate, elaborate

   Origin: from the Latin word 'convolutus', meaning 'to roll together', past participle of 'convolvere', from 'con-' (together) + 'volvere' (to roll)

5. receptive · adjective/rɪˈsɛptɪv/

   willing to consider or accept new suggestions and ideas

   The team was very receptive to feedback from their peers, which helped improve their project significantly.

   Synonyms: open, welcoming, responsive

   Origin: from Latin 'receptivus', meaning 'to receive', from 'recipere', meaning 'to receive'