inescapable, frolicsome, pugnacious, unswerving, ductile: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 135. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. inescapable · adjective/ˌɪnɪˈskeɪpəbl/

   impossible to avoid or evade

   The inescapable truth of the matter is that we must confront our mistakes to move forward.

   Synonyms: unavoidable, inevitable, ineluctable

   Origin: Late Middle English: from in- 'not' + escapable, from escape

2. frolicsome · adjective/ˈfrɑːlɪkˌsəm/

   full of fun and high-spirited activity

   The frolicsome children raced around the garden, laughing and playing as they chased each other under the warm sun.

   Synonyms: playful, lively, merry

   Origin: early 17th century: from frolic + -some

3. pugnacious · adjective/pʌɡˈneɪʃəs/

   having a ready disposition to fight or argue

   The pugnacious boxer was known for his fierce attitude both inside and outside the ring.

   Synonyms: combative, aggressive, belligerent

   Origin: from Latin 'pugnax', meaning 'fighting', from 'pugnare', which means 'to fight'

4. unswerving · adjective/ʌnˈswɜrvɪŋ/

   not changing or becoming weaker in purpose or belief

   Her unswerving commitment to her principles made her a respected leader in the community.

   Synonyms: steadfast, unwavering, resolute

   Origin: The word 'unswerving' is derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'swerving,' which comes from the Old English 'swerfan,' meaning 'to turn aside.'

5. ductile · adjective/ˈdʌktaɪl/

   capable of being stretched or drawn out without breaking

   Gold is a highly ductile metal, making it easy to draw into thin wires.

   Synonyms: malleable, flexible, pliable

   Origin: from Latin 'ductilis', from 'ducere' meaning 'to lead or draw out'