caustic, disparate, peculiar, lewd, cogent: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 213. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. caustic · adjective/ˈkɔːstɪk/

   able to burn or corrode organic tissue by chemical action

   The caustic chemicals in the laboratory required strict safety protocols to prevent burns.

   Synonyms: corrosive, caustical, acrid

   Origin: from Greek 'kaustikos' meaning 'able to burn', from 'kausis' meaning 'burning'

2. disparate · adjective/ˈdɪspərət/

   fundamentally different or distinct in quality or kind

   The two studies presented disparate results, leading to confusion among the researchers about the effectiveness of the new treatment.

   Synonyms: diverse, distinct, unlike

   Origin: from Latin 'disparatus', meaning 'separated, diverse, unequal'

3. peculiar · adjective/pɪˈkjuːlɚ/

   strange or unusual in a way that is noticeable

   The peculiar behavior of the cat caught everyone's attention during the party.

   Synonyms: strange, unusual, odd

   Origin: from Latin 'peculiaris', meaning 'of one's own, private, special', from 'peculium', meaning 'private property, wealth'

4. lewd · adjective/luːd/

   vulgar or obscene in nature

   The comedian's lewd jokes received mixed reactions from the audience, with some finding them funny and others deeming them inappropriate.

   Synonyms: salacious, indecent, lascivious

   Origin: from Middle English 'lewed', meaning 'ignorant, unlearned', from Old English 'lewed', related to the term for 'layperson' as opposed to 'clergy'.

5. cogent · adjective/ˈkoʊ.dʒənt/

   clear, logical, and convincing

   Her cogent arguments during the debate convinced everyone of her point of view.

   Synonyms: compelling, persuasive, convincing

   Origin: from Latin 'cogens', which is the present participle of 'cogere' meaning 'to drive together'