rebuttal, onslaught, jeopardy, amulet, bullion: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 38. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. rebuttal · noun/rɪˈbʌt̬.əl/

   a reply intended to contradict or counter a previous argument or statement

   During the debate, her rebuttal provided compelling evidence that contradicted his earlier claims about climate change.

   Synonyms: refutation, counterargument, response

   Origin: From Middle French 'rebuttal', based on 'rebutter', meaning to beat back or repel.

2. onslaught · noun/ˈɑnˌslɔt/

   a fierce or destructive attack

   The city was unprepared for the onslaught of the hurricane, which caused widespread destruction.

   Synonyms: assault, attack, barrage

   Origin: Middle English 'onslaught' from 'on' + 'slēht' (meaning 'slaughter')

3. jeopardy · noun/ˈdʒɛpərdi/

   a situation in which there is a risk of loss, harm, or failure

   The company's finances are in jeopardy due to the recent decline in sales.

   Synonyms: danger, risk, hazard

   Origin: from Middle English 'jeopardie', from Old French 'jeu parti', meaning 'a divided game'

4. amulet · noun/ˈæmjəlɪt/

   a small object believed to bring good luck or protect the wearer from harm

   She wore a silver amulet around her neck that was said to bring protection from evil spirits.

   Synonyms: talisman, charm, protective object

   Origin: from Latin 'amuletum', which is possibly derived from the verb 'amuletare' meaning 'to protect'.

5. bullion · noun/ˈbʊl.jən/

   gold or silver in bulk form rather than in coins or jewelry

   The bank decided to invest in bullion as a hedge against inflation.

   Synonyms: ingots, bars, nuggets

   Origin: from Middle English 'bulk' (meaning 'a mass or a large amount') derived from Old French 'bouillon' (meaning 'boiling') which originally referred to the process of melting metals.