perfidious, piquant, treacherous, musky, fearsome: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 155. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. perfidious · adjective/pərˈfɪd.i.əs/

   deceitful and untrustworthy

   His perfidious actions led to a complete breakdown of trust among his friends.

   Synonyms: treacherous, duplicitous, deceitful

   Origin: from Latin 'perfidus', meaning 'faithless', derived from 'per' (through) and 'fides' (faith)

2. piquant · adjective/ˈpikənt/

   having a pleasantly sharp taste or刺激ing flavor

   The chef used a piquant sauce that perfectly complemented the grilled seafood, adding a delightful zing to the dish.

   Synonyms: spicy, tangy, zesty

   Origin: from the French word 'piquant', meaning 'pricking, stinging', derived from the Latin 'pungere', meaning 'to prick or sting'

3. treacherous · adjective/ˈtrɛtʃ.ɚ.əs/

   characterized by betrayal or deception

   After years of loyalty, she was shocked to discover that her closest friend had made a treacherous betrayal, divulging her secrets to others.

   Synonyms: perfidious, deceitful, disloyal

   Origin: from Middle English 'trecherous', derived from Old French 'trecherous', which is based on 'trecher', meaning to betray or deceive.

4. musky · adjective/ˈmʌs.ki/

   having a strong smell that resembles musk

   The musky scent of the forest filled the air, reminiscent of damp earth and fallen leaves.

   Synonyms: scented, pungent, fragrant

   Origin: from Middle French 'musc,' from Latin 'muscus,' from Greek 'mouskos'

5. fearsome · adjective/ˈfɪrˌsəm/

   inspiring fear or respect through being impressively powerful or capable

   The fearsome warrior commanded respect on the battlefield, his presence striking terror into the hearts of his enemies.

   Synonyms: intimidating, formidable, frightening

   Origin: Middle English 'ferosum', from Latin 'ferox', meaning fierce or wild.