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.
SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 176
Set 176 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: nadir, infelicity, liberality, prudence, neophyte. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
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.'