erudite, fecund, unfeigned, succulent, noisome: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 148. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. erudite · adjective/ˈɛrʊˌdaɪt/

   having or showing great knowledge or learning

   The erudite professor captivated his students with his extensive knowledge of ancient civilizations.

   Synonyms: learned, knowledgeable, scholarly

   Origin: from Latin 'eruditus' meaning 'instructed, educated, polished', past participle of 'erudire' which means 'to educate or instruct'

2. fecund · adjective/ˈfiː.kənd/

   capable of producing an abundance of offspring or new growth fertile

   The fecund soil in the valley allowed for a bountiful harvest each season, supporting a myriad of crops.

   Synonyms: fertile, fruitful, productive

   Origin: from Latin 'fecundus', meaning 'fruitful, fertile'

3. unfeigned · adjective/ʌnˈfeɪnd/

   genuine and sincere not pretended or feigned

   Her unfeigned enthusiasm for the project inspired everyone on the team.

   Synonyms: genuine, sincere, authentic

   Origin: The word 'unfeigned' originates from the Middle English 'unfeigned', which comes from Old English 'unfēngen', where 'un-' means 'not' and 'fēngen' means 'taken or seizing'.

4. succulent · adjective/ˈsʌk.jə.lənt/

   having a fleshy and juicy quality

   The chef served a delectable roast, featuring succulent vegetables that added a burst of flavor to the dish.

   Synonyms: juicy, fleshy, moist

   Origin: from Latin 'succulentus', from 'succus' meaning 'juice'

5. noisome · adjective/ˈnɔɪsəm/

   having an extremely unpleasant smell or causing harm or harmfully unpleasant

   The noisome odor from the garbage dump prevented us from enjoying our picnic in the park.

   Synonyms: foul, offensive, noxious

   Origin: from Middle English 'noisome', derived from Old English 'noysum' meaning 'hurtful' or 'harmful', and related to 'noise'.