SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 28

Set 28 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: heresy, atrophy, tyranny, adoration, lull. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. heresy · noun/ˈhɛr.ə.si/

   a belief or opinion that deviates from established religious doctrine

   The church condemned the new interpretation of the scriptures as heresy, insisting that it undermined centuries of established beliefs.

   Synonyms: dissent, deviation, nonconformity

   Origin: from Old French 'hérésie', from Latin 'haeresis', from Greek 'haeresis' meaning 'choice, seizing, taking'.

2. atrophy · noun/ˈæt.rə.fi/

   a gradual decline in effectiveness or vigor due to underuse or neglect

   The atrophy of her muscle strength was evident after months of inactivity during her recovery.

   Synonyms: decline, deterioration, wastage

   Origin: From the Greek 'atrophia', meaning 'a wasting away', from 'a-' (without) + 'trophē' (nourishment)

3. tyranny · noun/ˈtɪrəni/

   cruel and oppressive government or rule

   The citizens rose up against the tyranny of their oppressive leader, demanding freedom and justice.

   Synonyms: despotism, oppression, autocracy

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French tyrannie, from Latin tyrannia, from Greek tyrannia 'rule of a tyrant'

4. adoration · noun/ˌæd.əˈreɪ.ʃən/

   deep love and respect for someone or something

   Her adoration for her grandmother was evident in the way she spoke about her with such fondness and respect.

   Synonyms: worship, devotion, admiration

   Origin: from Latin 'adoratio', from 'adorare' meaning 'to worship' or 'to adore'

5. lull · noun/lʌl/

   a temporary period of quietness or inactivity

   After the storm passed, there was a lull in the wind, allowing us to step outside safely.

   Synonyms: pause, break, respite

   Origin: from Middle English 'lullen', meaning to soothe or calm, of uncertain origin