molten, illegitimate, ruthless, gracious, believable: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 95. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. molten · adjective/ˈmoʊltən/

   melted or liquefied by heat

   The chef poured the molten chocolate over the dessert, creating a deliciously rich sauce.

   Synonyms: liquid, melted, fluid

   Origin: from Middle English 'molten', from Old English 'meltan', meaning 'to melt'

2. illegitimate · adjective/ˌɪlɪˈdʒɪtəmɪt/

   not authorized by law or rules

   The court ruled that the property had been transferred through illegitimate means, making the ownership null and void.

   Synonyms: unlawful, unauthorized, illegal

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Latin illegitimus, from in- ‘not’ + legitimus ‘lawful’

3. ruthless · adjective/ˈruθləs/

   having or showing no pity or compassion for others

   The CEO's ruthless ambition drove the company to success, but at the cost of employee well-being.

   Synonyms: merciless, cruel, pitiless

   Origin: The word 'ruthless' originates from the combination of 'ruth,' an old English word meaning 'pity' or 'compassion,' with the suffix '-less,' which indicates absence. Thus, 'ruthless' literally means 'without pity.'

4. gracious · adjective/ˈɡreɪ.ʃəs/

   showing kindness and courtesy especially toward someone of lower status

   The gracious host welcomed each guest with warmth and genuine appreciation, making everyone feel valued, regardless of their background.

   Synonyms: courteous, polite, kindly

   Origin: From Middle English 'graciouse', from Old French 'gracieux', from Latin 'gratus', meaning pleasing or agreeable.

5. believable · adjective/bɪˈliːvəbəl/

   capable of being believed; credible or plausible

   The detective's explanation of the crime was so detailed and logical that it seemed completely believable.

   Synonyms: credible, plausible, tenable

   Origin: Middle English: from the Old French 'believe', based on Latin 'credibilis', from 'credere' meaning 'to believe'.