exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement
example
The crowd erupted into fits of hysteria when the band announced their surprise reunion tour.
synonyms
hysteriafrenzymania
word origin — from the Greek word 'hystera' meaning 'uterus'. The term was originally used in reference to a medical condition thought to be related to the female reproductive system.
SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 83
Set 83 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: hysteria, pact, larceny, scavenger, intimidation. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
hysteria · noun/hɪˈstɪr.i.ə/
exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement
The crowd erupted into fits of hysteria when the band announced their surprise reunion tour.
Synonyms: hysteria, frenzy, mania
Origin: from the Greek word 'hystera' meaning 'uterus'. The term was originally used in reference to a medical condition thought to be related to the female reproductive system.
pact · noun/pækt/
a formal agreement between individuals or parties
The two countries signed a peace pact to end the long-standing conflict and promote stability in the region.
Synonyms: agreement, accord, treaty
Origin: from Latin 'pactum', meaning 'agreement, contract'.
larceny · noun/ˈlɑr.sə.ni/
the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's personal property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it
The defendant was charged with grand larceny for stealing expensive jewelry from the display case.
Synonyms: theft, robbery, stealing
Origin: from Old French 'larciner', derived from Latin 'larcina' meaning 'theft'
scavenger · noun/ˈskæv.ɪn.dʒɚ/
an organism that feeds on dead or decaying organic matter
Vultures are often considered scavengers because they feed on the remains of dead animals found in the wild.
Synonyms: decomposer, detritivore, recycler
Origin: The word 'scavenger' originates from the Middle English 'scavager', which referred to a collector of taxes or tolls. It derives from the Old North French 'escaweiller', meaning to collect or gather, and is related to 'scavage', meaning payment for services.
intimidation · noun/ɪnˌtɪmɪˈdeɪʃən/
the act of intentionally causing someone to feel afraid or afraid to act
The manager's use of intimidation tactics made employees afraid to voice their concerns during meetings.
Synonyms: harassment, bullying, threat
Origin: from Latin 'intimidatio', from 'intimidare' meaning 'to frighten, to scare'.