indifference, reaper, generality, progeny, fervor: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 313. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. indifference · noun/ɪnˈdɪfərəns/

   lack of interest, concern, or sympathy

   Her indifference to the plight of the animals was shocking, as she simply walked past without a second glance.

   Synonyms: apathy, unconcern, disinterest

   Origin: from Latin 'indifferentia', meaning 'lack of difference' or 'indifference', composed of 'in-' (not) + 'differentia' (difference)

2. reaper · noun/ˈriː.pər/

   a person or machine that harvests crops

   The farmer invested in a new grain reaper to increase the efficiency of his harvest this year.

   Synonyms: harvester, gatherer, mower

   Origin: from Old English 'reapian', meaning to gather or harvest

3. generality · noun/dʒɛnəˈrælɪti/

   the quality or state of being general or having a broad application

   The generality of his statement lacked specificity, making it difficult to apply to various situations.

   Synonyms: universality, generalness, broadness

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Old French 'généralité', from medieval Latin 'generalitas', from Latin 'generalis' meaning 'general'.

4. progeny · noun/ˈprɑːdʒəni/

   offspring or descendants of a person, animal, or plant

   The scientist studied the progeny of the genetically modified plants to observe any changes in their growth patterns.

   Synonyms: offspring, descendants

   Origin: From Middle French 'progénie', from Latin 'progenies' meaning 'lineage, descent'.

5. fervor · noun/ˈfɜr.vər/

   intense and passionate feeling

   The coach inspired his team with such fervor that they went on to win the championship against all odds.

   Synonyms: zeal, passion, enthusiasm

   Origin: from Latin 'fervor', meaning 'boiling' or 'to glow'; derived from 'fervēre', meaning 'to boil' or 'to be hot'