sultry, remiss, vitriolic, fulsome, wily: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 168. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. sultry · adjective/ˈsʌltri/

   characterized by sweltering heat or charm

   The sultry summer evening was perfect for an outdoor dinner party under the stars.

   Synonyms: hot, humid, seductive

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Latin 'sultris' meaning 'sweltering, hot'.

2. remiss · adjective/rɪˈmɪs/

   negligent in the performance of a duty or task

   The manager was remiss in his duties, failing to address the team's concerns and expectations.

   Synonyms: negligent, careless, lax

   Origin: From Latin 'remissus,' meaning 'slackened, relaxed,' from 'remittere,' meaning 'to send back or release.'

3. vitriolic · adjective/ˌvɪt.riˈɑ.lɪk/

   filled with bitter criticism or malice

   The politician faced vitriolic criticism from the media after his controversial remarks during the debate.

   Synonyms: bitter, caustic, acerbic

   Origin: The word 'vitriolic' comes from 'vitriol,' which refers to sulfuric acid, historically known for its corrosive properties. It stems from the Latin word 'vitrum,' meaning glass, which relates to the glassy appearance of sulfates.

4. fulsome · adjective/ˈfʊlsəm/

   excessively flattering or insincere in speech or behavior

   The CEO's fulsome praise for the new project seemed more like an attempt to curry favor than genuine admiration.

   Synonyms: excessive, over the top, insincere

   Origin: From Middle English 'fulsom', meaning 'full of' or 'abundant', from 'ful' meaning 'full' + 'some', meaning 'characterized by'.

5. wily · adjective/ˈwaɪli/

   clever and deceitful in achieving goals

   The wily fox outsmarted the hunters by creating a series of clever diversions.

   Synonyms: sly, cunning, crafty

   Origin: The word 'wily' comes from the Old English 'wīlic,' meaning 'cunning' or 'crafty.'