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perfidy

noun/ˈpɜr.fɪ.di/

definition

deceitfulness or untrustworthiness

example

His perfidy became apparent when he betrayed his closest friend for personal gain.

synonyms
treacheryduplicitybetrayal
word origin — from Latin 'perfidia', meaning 'treachery, faithlessness'; from 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'fides' meaning 'faith'

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 202

Set 202 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: perfidy, spangle, progenitor, virtuosity, cession. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. perfidy · noun/ˈpɜr.fɪ.di/

    deceitfulness or untrustworthiness

    His perfidy became apparent when he betrayed his closest friend for personal gain.

    Synonyms: treachery, duplicity, betrayal

    Origin: from Latin 'perfidia', meaning 'treachery, faithlessness'; from 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'fides' meaning 'faith'

  2. spangle · noun/ˈspæŋɡəl/

    a small, shining object or a glittering embellishment

    The dress was adorned with shimmering spangles that caught the light beautifully during the evening gala.

    Synonyms: sequin, sparkle, glitter

    Origin: Middle English spanglen, from spangle, perhaps influenced by the Old English 'spon' meaning 'to sprinkle'.

  3. progenitor · noun/prəˈdʒɛnɪtɚ/

    a person or thing from which a person, animal, or plant is descended or originates

    The ancient tree serves as a progenitor of many modern species, highlighting its significance in the ecosystem.

    Synonyms: ancestor, precursor, forefather

    Origin: From Latin 'progenitor', from 'pro-' meaning 'forth' and 'genitor' meaning 'to produce, beget'.

  4. virtuosity · noun/ˌvɜr.tʃuˈɑ.sɪ.ti/

    great skill in a particular art or field

    The pianist's virtuosity captivated the audience, showcasing her incredible talent and technical ability.

    Synonyms: skill, expertise, proficiency

    Origin: from Italian 'virtuosità', from 'virtuoso', meaning 'skilled' or 'virtuous', derived from Latin 'virtuosus', meaning 'full of virtue'

  5. cession · noun/ˈsɛʃən/

    the act of giving up or transferring rights, property, or territory

    The treaty included a cession of certain territories to the neighboring country, marking a significant shift in the region's borders.

    Synonyms: surrender, transfer, relinquishment

    Origin: from Latin 'cessio', meaning 'a yielding or giving up'