the lowest point in a person's fortunes or in a situation
example
After losing his job and facing financial difficulties, he felt that he had reached the nadir of his life.
synonyms
lowest pointlow pointbottom
word origin — The word 'nadir' comes from the Arabic word 'nazir' meaning 'opposite,' which refers to the point on the celestial sphere that is directly opposite the zenith.
nadir, infelicity, liberality, prudence, neophyte: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 176. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
nadir · noun/ˈneɪ.dɪr/
the lowest point in a person's fortunes or in a situation
After losing his job and facing financial difficulties, he felt that he had reached the nadir of his life.
Synonyms: lowest point, low point, bottom
Origin: The word 'nadir' comes from the Arabic word 'nazir' meaning 'opposite,' which refers to the point on the celestial sphere that is directly opposite the zenith.
infelicity · noun/ɪnˈfɛlɪsɪti/
a state of being unhappy or unfortunate
Despite her best efforts to maintain a cheerful demeanor, the infelicity of her situation weighed heavily on her spirit.
Synonyms: unhappiness, misfortune, sorrow
Origin: from Latin 'infelicitas', from 'in-' (not) + 'felicitas' (happiness, good fortune)
liberality · noun/ˌlɪbəˈrælɪti/
the quality of being open to new ideas and willing to give generously
Her liberality in supporting local charities has greatly improved our community's resources.
Origin: from Middle English, from Latin 'liberalitas', from 'liberalis' meaning 'generous, noble'
prudence · noun/ˈpruː.dəns/
the quality of being cautious and exercising good judgment in practical matters
It is wise to exercise prudence when making investments to avoid unnecessary financial risks.
Synonyms: caution, sagacity, wisdom
Origin: From Middle English prudent, from Old French prudent, from Latin prudentem (nominative prudens) meaning 'foreseeing, foresighted', from providere meaning 'to foresee'.
neophyte · noun/ˈniːəfaɪt/
a person who is new to a subject, skill, or belief
As a neophyte in photography, she was eager to learn from more experienced professionals.
Synonyms: novice, beginner, newcomer
Origin: From the Greek 'neophytos,' meaning 'newly planted,' from 'neo-' meaning 'new' and 'phyto-' meaning 'plant.'