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unprecedented

adjective/ʌnˈprɛsɪˌdɛntɪd/

definition

never done or known before

example

The company faced an unprecedented surge in demand for its products during the pandemic.

synonyms
unparalleledexceptionalnovel
word origin — The word 'unprecedented' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'precedent,' which originates from the Latin 'praecedent-' meaning 'going before.'

SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 327

Set 327 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: unprecedented, decadent, arcane, negligent, unobservable. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. unprecedented · adjective/ʌnˈprɛsɪˌdɛntɪd/

    never done or known before

    The company faced an unprecedented surge in demand for its products during the pandemic.

    Synonyms: unparalleled, exceptional, novel

    Origin: The word 'unprecedented' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'precedent,' which originates from the Latin 'praecedent-' meaning 'going before.'

  2. decadent · adjective/ˈdɛkədənt/

    characterized by a decline in morals or values often associated with indulgence and excess

    The decadent lifestyle of the elite often leads to a disconnection from the struggles of ordinary people.

    Synonyms: dissolute, immoral, depraved

    Origin: from Latin 'decadentem', the present participle of 'decadere' meaning 'to fall or decline'

  3. arcane · adjective/ɑrˈkeɪn/

    known or understood by very few; mysterious or secret

    The scholars gathered to discuss the arcane rituals of ancient civilizations, which few people had ever understood.

    Synonyms: mysterious, obscure, esoteric

    Origin: from Latin 'arcanus', meaning 'secret', which is derived from 'arca', meaning 'chest' or 'box'.

  4. negligent · adjective/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒənt/

    failing to take proper care in doing something

    The company was found negligent in its safety protocols, leading to a serious accident at the factory.

    Synonyms: careless, reckless, inattentive

    Origin: from Latin 'negligens', present participle of 'neglegere' meaning to disregard or neglect

  5. unobservable · adjective/ˌʌnəˈzɜrvəbl/

    not able to be seen or perceived

    In quantum mechanics, certain phenomena are unobservable by traditional means, leaving scientists to rely on theoretical models.

    Synonyms: invisible, imperceptible, hidden

    Origin: from Latin 'unobservable' where 'un-' means 'not' and 'observable' comes from 'observare' meaning 'to watch, observe'