SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 248

Set 248 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: mistrust, bigotry, fop, sovereignty, fetter. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. mistrust · noun/mɪsˈtrʌst/

   lack of confidence in the honesty or reliability of someone or something

   Her continuous lies led to a deep mistrust between the friends, making it hard for them to reconcile.

   Synonyms: distrust, doubt, skepticism

   Origin: The word 'mistrust' originates from the Middle English 'mistrusten', which is formed from 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and 'trust', derived from Old Norse 'trú', meaning 'faith or belief'.

2. bigotry · noun/ˈbɪɡətri/

   intolerance toward those who hold different opinions or beliefs

   The bigotry displayed at the rally shocked many attendees who believed in inclusivity and acceptance.

   Synonyms: intolerance, prejudice, bias

   Origin: The term 'bigotry' originates from the French 'bigote', which referred to a hypocrite or a religious zealot. It entered English in the early 17th century.

3. fop · noun/fɑp/

   a man who is excessively concerned with his clothes and appearance

   At the gala, he was the very definition of a fop, his flamboyant attire drawing attention from everyone in the room.

   Synonyms: dandy, natty, rake

   Origin: The word 'fop' is believed to originate from the late 16th century, possibly from the word 'foppe,' which is of uncertain origin but is thought to be of imitative roots reflecting a foolish or silly person.

4. sovereignty · noun/ˈsɑvrənti/

   the authority of a state to govern itself or another state

   The nation's sovereignty was challenged by external forces, prompting discussions about national security.

   Synonyms: autonomy, independence, self-governance

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'sovereignty', from Latin 'sovereignitas', from 'super' (above)

5. fetter · noun/ˈfɛtər/

   a chain or manacle used to restrain a prisoner, typically placed around the ankles

   The prisoner's feet were bound in heavy fetters, limiting his ability to escape.

   Synonyms: shackle, restraint, manacle

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French 'fetre' or from Latin 'fetter' meaning 'to fetter' or 'to bind'