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detractor

noun/dɪˈtræktər/

definition

a person who belittles or criticizes someone or something

example

Despite her many accomplishments, she has faced criticism from a number of detractors who underestimate her abilities.

synonyms
criticopponentdisparager
word origin — from the Latin word 'detrahere', meaning 'to pull down or take away'

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 224

Set 224 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: detractor, retinue, plenitude, opportunist, prowess. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. detractor · noun/dɪˈtræktər/

    a person who belittles or criticizes someone or something

    Despite her many accomplishments, she has faced criticism from a number of detractors who underestimate her abilities.

    Synonyms: critic, opponent, disparager

    Origin: from the Latin word 'detrahere', meaning 'to pull down or take away'

  2. retinue · noun/ˈrɛt.ɪ.nu/

    a group of advisers, assistants, or others accompanying an important person

    The queen arrived at the gala with her elegant retinue of attendants and diplomats, each playing a crucial role in her royal duties.

    Synonyms: entourage, cortege, followers

    Origin: from Middle French 'retinue', from 'retenue' meaning 'retention', related to the verb 'retenir' meaning 'to retain'

  3. plenitude · noun/ˈplɛnɪˌtud/

    the state of being full or abundant

    The garden was a plenitude of vibrant flowers, attracting many bees and butterflies.

    Synonyms: abundance, plenty, profusion

    Origin: from Latin 'plenitudo', meaning 'fullness', derived from 'plenus', meaning 'full'

  4. opportunist · noun/ˌɑːpərˈtuːnɪst/

    a person who takes advantage of opportunities regardless of principles or ethics

    As an opportunist, she quickly aligned herself with the new management to advance her own career, regardless of the impact on her colleagues.

    Synonyms: exploiter, schemer, opportuner

    Origin: From the Latin 'opportunus', meaning 'favorable' or 'suitable'; originally referred to favorable circumstances.

  5. prowess · noun/ˈpraʊəs/

    exceptional skill or expertise in a particular activity or field

    Her culinary prowess was evident in the way she effortlessly prepared a gourmet meal for the guests.

    Synonyms: skill, expertise, proficiency

    Origin: Middle English, from Anglo-French 'proesse', meaning 'valor' or 'excellence', derived from 'prower', meaning 'brave' or 'valiant'