irony, intuition, indulgence, slough, proponent: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 40. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. irony · noun/ˈaɪ.rə.ni/

   a contrast between expectation and reality typically in a way that is humorous or sarcastic

   The irony of the situation was that the fire station burned down while the firefighters were out on a call.

   Synonyms: sarcasm, satire, witticism

   Origin: Derived from the Greek word 'eironeía', meaning 'dissimulation or feigned ignorance.'

2. intuition · noun/ɪnˈtuːɪʃən/

   the ability to understand something instinctively without the need for conscious reasoning

   Her intuition guided her to make the right decision even when the evidence suggested otherwise.

   Synonyms: hunch, instinct, gut feeling

   Origin: Latin intuītionem, meaning 'a looking at' or 'consideration'

3. indulgence · noun/ɪnˈdʌl.dʒəns/

   the act of allowing oneself to enjoy pleasure or satisfy a desire

   After a long week of work, she treated herself to an indulgence of chocolate cake and red wine.

   Synonyms: pleasure, gratification, enjoyment

   Origin: from Latin 'indulgentia', meaning 'leniency, kindness, fondness', from 'indulgere', meaning 'to be lenient or tender'.

4. slough · noun/slɑf/

   a swamp or wetland area

   The researchers conducted a study on the unique ecosystem found in the slough near the riverbank.

   Synonyms: marsh, bog, wetland

   Origin: Middle English 'slough', derived from Old English 'sloh' meaning 'mud' or 'mire'.

5. proponent · noun/prəˈpoʊ.nənt/

   a person who advocates for or supports a particular idea or cause

   As a strong proponent of renewable energy, she has dedicated her career to advocating for sustainable practices.

   Synonyms: advocate, supporter, champion

   Origin: from Latin 'proponere' meaning 'to put forth'