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sacrosanct

adjective/ˈsækrəˌsæŋkt/

definition

regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with

example

In many cultures, family traditions are regarded as sacrosanct and should not be easily altered or dismissed.

synonyms
sacredinviolableholy
word origin — from Latin 'sacrosanctus', meaning 'sacred and inviolable'

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 152

Set 152 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: sacrosanct, exorbitant, odoriferous, antagonistic, downcast. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. sacrosanct · adjective/ˈsækrəˌsæŋkt/

    regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with

    In many cultures, family traditions are regarded as sacrosanct and should not be easily altered or dismissed.

    Synonyms: sacred, inviolable, holy

    Origin: from Latin 'sacrosanctus', meaning 'sacred and inviolable'

  2. exorbitant · adjective/ɪɡˈzɔːrbɪtənt/

    exceeding the bounds of custom, propriety, or reason especially in amount or extent

    The prices at that boutique are exorbitant, making it difficult for casual shoppers to afford anything.

    Synonyms: excessive, unreasonable, outrageous

    Origin: The word 'exorbitant' comes from the Latin 'exorbitans', the present participle of 'exorbitare', which means 'to deviate from the expected course'.

  3. odoriferous · adjective/oʊdəˈrɪf.ər.əs/

    having or emitting a strong smell

    The garden was filled with odoriferous flowers that attracted bees and butterflies.

    Synonyms: fragrant, aromatic, scented

    Origin: from Latin 'odorem' meaning 'smell' + 'ferre' meaning 'to carry'

  4. antagonistic · adjective/ænˌtæɡəˈnɪstɪk/

    showing opposition or hostility towards something or someone

    The two political parties have developed an antagonistic relationship, making it difficult to reach a consensus on key issues.

    Synonyms: hostile, opposed, antagonistic

    Origin: from Greek 'antagonistikos', from 'antagonizesthai' meaning 'to struggle against'

  5. downcast · adjective/ˈdaʊn.kæst/

    feeling dejected or disheartened

    After hearing the disappointing news, she walked away with a downcast expression on her face.

    Synonyms: dejected, despondent, disheartened

    Origin: The word 'downcast' originates from the Middle English 'downcast', from 'down' + 'cast', meaning 'to cast down' or 'to throw down'.