SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 118

Set 118 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: spry, circumspect, obstinate, frigid, despondent. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. spry · adjective/spraɪ/

   full of energy and lively especially despite age

   Even at the age of 80, she remains spry and enjoys jogging every morning.

   Synonyms: lively, active, agile

   Origin: of unknown origin, possibly from Middle English 'spri', meaning 'lively, brisk'.

2. circumspect · adjective/ˈsɜrk.əm.spekt/

   careful to consider all circumstances and possible consequences

   The lawyer took a circumspect approach in handling the sensitive case, ensuring that every potential outcome was considered.

   Synonyms: prudent, cautious, careful

   Origin: from the Latin 'circumspectus', meaning 'looking around'

3. obstinate · adjective/ˈɑb.stə.nət/

   stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action

   Despite the overwhelming evidence, she remained obstinate in her belief that the decision was wrong.

   Synonyms: stubborn, unyielding, inflexible

   Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'obstinatus', past participle of 'obstinere', meaning 'to hold fast'

4. frigid · adjective/ˈfrɪdʒɪd/

   extremely cold in temperature

   The frigid temperatures in the Arctic make it one of the most inhospitable places on Earth.

   Synonyms: cold, icy, freezing

   Origin: From Latin 'frigidus,' meaning 'cold' or 'cool.'

5. despondent · adjective/dɪsˈpɑndənt/

   in a state of low spirits caused by loss of hope or courage

   After failing her final exam, she felt despondent about her future prospects.

   Synonyms: dejected, depressed, disheartened

   Origin: Latin 'despondentem', present participle of 'despondere' meaning 'to give up, lose confidence'