SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 279

Set 279 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: makeshift, nomadic, contentious, impractical, frantic. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. makeshift · adjective/ˈmeɪkʃɪft/

   temporary and usually crude or improvised

   After the storm destroyed the tent, they set up a makeshift shelter using tarps and branches.

   Synonyms: improvised, temporary, crude

   Origin: The word 'makeshift' is formed from the verb 'make' and the noun 'shift,' indicating a temporary measure or arrangement made to 'make do' in response to a need.

2. nomadic · adjective/noʊˈmædɪk/

   relating to a lifestyle characterized by moving from place to place rather than settling permanently in one location

   The nomadic lifestyle of the shepherds allows them to adapt to the changing seasons and find the best grazing lands for their flocks.

   Synonyms: roaming, wandering, itinerant

   Origin: The word 'nomadic' originates from the Greek 'nomas,' meaning 'wandering' or 'pasturing,' which is derived from 'nemein,' meaning 'to pasture.'

3. contentious · adjective/kənˈtɛnʃəs/

   causing or likely to cause an argument controversial

   The meeting turned into a contentious debate over the proposed budget cuts, with members arguing passionately about their potential impact.

   Synonyms: controversial, disputatious, argumentative

   Origin: Late Latin 'contentiosus', from 'contentio', meaning 'strife' or 'disputable'

4. impractical · adjective/ɪmˈpræktɪkəl/

   not suitable for practical use or application

   The designer proposed an impractical solution that would be too costly to implement in the real world.

   Synonyms: unworkable, unfeasible, unrealistic

   Origin: The word 'impractical' comes from the prefix 'im-' meaning 'not', combined with 'practical', which derives from late Middle English, from Old French 'practique', and ultimately from Latin 'practicus', meaning 'practical' or 'fit for practice'.

5. frantic · adjective/ˈfræntɪk/

   wild or distraught with fear or anxiety

   After realizing she had lost her wallet, she made a frantic search through her bag and the surrounding area.

   Synonyms: hysterical, frantic, agitated

   Origin: Late Middle English, from Latin 'franticus' meaning 'mad, frantic'