ferocity, aspersion, diminution, resumption, dint: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 164. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ferocity · noun/fəˈrɑs.ɪ.ti/

   the state or quality of being fierce or violent

   The ferocity of the storm left the town devastated, with uprooted trees and shattered windows everywhere.

   Synonyms: fierceness, savagery, brutality

   Origin: From Latin 'ferocitas', from 'ferox' meaning 'fierce'

2. aspersion · noun/əˈspɜrʒən/

   an attack on the reputation or integrity of someone or something

   The politician faced serious aspersions on his integrity after the scandal broke.

   Synonyms: slander, defamation, slur

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Old French 'aspersion' or from Latin 'aspersio(n-)', from 'aspergere' meaning 'to sprinkle' or 'to bespatter'.

3. diminution · noun/ˌdɪməˈnjuʃən/

   the act or process of reducing or diminishing

   The company reported a significant diminution in profits due to the recent economic downturn.

   Synonyms: reduction, decrease, drop

   Origin: from Latin 'diminutio', from 'diminuere' meaning 'to lessen'

4. resumption · noun/rɪˈzʌmpʃən/

   the act of starting something again after a pause or interruption

   The resumption of classes after the holidays brought a mix of excitement and dread among the students.

   Synonyms: recommencement, continuation, renewal

   Origin: from the Latin 'resumptio', meaning 'a taking back' or 'seizing again'

5. dint · noun/dɪnt/

   a mark or impression made by pressure

   After the storm, we found a noticeable dint in the side of the car where a branch had fallen on it.

   Synonyms: indent, impression, mark

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'dent' meaning 'tooth', due to the resemblance to marks left by teeth