barter, vocalist, ebb, ewe, outskirt: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 276. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. barter · noun/ˈbɑr.tɚ/

   the exchange of goods or services without using money

   In many rural communities, people often engage in barter to trade fresh produce for handmade goods.

   Synonyms: trade, exchange, swap

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French 'barater' meaning to trade or cheat, from 'barat' meaning barter, fraud.

2. vocalist · noun/ˈvoʊkəlɪst/

   a person who sings, especially one who performs professionally

   The renowned vocalist captivated the audience with her powerful performance at the concert last night.

   Synonyms: singer, performer, chantress

   Origin: The word 'vocalist' originates from the Latin word 'vocalis', meaning 'of the voice', which is derived from 'vox', meaning 'voice'. The term was first used in English in the late 19th century.

3. ebb · noun/ɛb/

   the movement of the tide out to sea

   At low tide, the ebb of the water revealed a stunning array of seashells along the shore.

   Synonyms: recede, retreat, flow out

   Origin: Old English 'ebba', meaning 'to move back' or 'to go out'

4. ewe · noun/juː/

   an adult female sheep

   The farmer watched over the pregnant ewe as it grazed in the lush green pasture.

   Synonyms: female sheep, ram, lamb

   Origin: Old English 'ēow', from Proto-Germanic '*aiwō'

5. outskirt · noun/ˈaʊtskɜrt/

   the outer areas or fringes of a city or town

   The new shopping mall is located on the outskirt of the city, making it easily accessible for residents from the surrounding areas.

   Synonyms: periphery, outskirts, fringe

   Origin: The word 'outskirt' comes from the combination of 'out' and 'skirt', where 'skirt' refers to the outer edge or border of something.