The bestial nature of the attack shocked the entire community, revealing the depths of human cruelty.
synonyms
animalisticsavagebrutal
word origin — The word 'bestial' comes from the Latin 'bestialis', meaning 'of beasts', which derives from 'bestia', meaning 'beast'.
bestial, baneful, inexhaustible, virulent, ghastly: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 178. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
bestial · adjective/ˈbɛs.ti.əl/
of or like an animal; savage or cruel
The bestial nature of the attack shocked the entire community, revealing the depths of human cruelty.
Synonyms: animalistic, savage, brutal
Origin: The word 'bestial' comes from the Latin 'bestialis', meaning 'of beasts', which derives from 'bestia', meaning 'beast'.
baneful · adjective/ˈbeɪn.fəl/
causing harm or destruction
The baneful effects of pollution on public health cannot be ignored.
Synonyms: harmful, deleterious, noxious
Origin: from the Old English 'baneful', meaning 'murderous' or 'destructive'
inexhaustible · adjective/ɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbəl/
never-ending or limitless in quantity or capacity
Her enthusiasm for learning seemed inexhaustible, inspiring everyone around her to keep asking questions.
Synonyms: unlimited, boundless, eternal
Origin: From Latin inexhaustibilis, meaning 'not able to be exhausted'
virulent · adjective/ˈvɪrələnt/
extremely harmful or infectious
The recent outbreak of a virulent strain of the virus has caused widespread panic among health officials.
Synonyms: toxic, poisonous, infective
Origin: from Latin 'virulentus', meaning 'poisonous' or 'full of venom'
ghastly · adjective/ˈɡæstli/
causing great horror or fear
The ghastly sight of the abandoned house left the children terrified and unwilling to explore further.
Synonyms: horrific, horrific, dreadful
Origin: Middle English 'gastli,' from 'gast' meaning 'ghost' or 'spirit,' influenced by Old English 'gæst.'