SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 53

Set 53 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: superstition, setback, cannibal, elaboration, delicacy. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. superstition · noun/ˌsuː.pərˈstɪʃ.ən/

   a belief or practice resulting from ignorance or fear of the unknown often involving the supernatural

   Many cultures have their own superstitions that dictate how people should behave during certain events, such as avoiding black cats on their wedding day.

   Synonyms: myth, folklore, credulity

   Origin: The word 'superstition' originates from the Latin 'superstitio', meaning 'a standing over' or 'overcaution', which combines 'super-' (over) and 'sistere' (to stand).

2. setback · noun/ˈsɛt.bæk/

   a reversal or check in progress or achievement

   After months of hard work, the team's plans faced a significant setback when funding was unexpectedly cut.

   Synonyms: setback, hindrance, obstacle

   Origin: The word 'setback' is a compound of 'set' (from Old English 'settan', meaning 'to place, put') and 'back' (from Old English 'bæc', meaning 'the rear part or back of something'). The term gained its current meaning in the early 20th century.

3. cannibal · noun/ˈkæn.ɪ.bəl/

   a person or animal that eats the flesh of its own species

   In some remote regions, tribes were known to practice cannibal rituals, consuming the flesh of their enemies.

   Synonyms: man-eater, flesh-eater, vorarephage

   Origin: The word 'cannibal' comes from the Spanish 'caníbal,' which was derived from the Taíno word 'caribal,' meaning 'the people.'

4. elaboration · noun/ɪˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/

   the process of developing or presenting a theory, policy, or system in further detail

   The team's elaboration of the new marketing strategy included detailed projections on how to increase customer engagement.

   Synonyms: development, expansion, clarification

   Origin: from the Latin 'elaboratio', meaning 'to work out' or 'to develop'

5. delicacy · noun/ˈdɛləkəsi/

   a rare or luxurious food item or a subtle consideration or sensitivity in handling a situation

   The restaurant is renowned for its seafood delicacies, including caviar and truffles.

   Synonyms: treat, luxury, indulgence

   Origin: from Middle English 'delicacie', from Old French 'delicatesse', from Latin 'delicatus' meaning 'delicate, luxurious'.