legerdemain, euphemism, salvo, apotheosis, knave: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 230. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. legerdemain · noun/ˌlɛdʒ.ər.dəˈmeɪn/

   sleight of hand or deceptive skill especially in performing tricks

   The magician's legerdemain left the audience in awe as he seamlessly made the rabbit disappear from the hat.

   Synonyms: sleight, trickery, conjuring

   Origin: from French 'léger de main,' meaning 'light of hand'

2. euphemism · noun/ˈjuː.fəˌmɪ.zəm/

   a mild or indirect word or expression used in place of a more direct or harsh one

   The phrase 'passed away' is a euphemism for 'died' that many people use to soften the impact of loss.

   Synonyms: circumlocution, understatement, softening

   Origin: from Greek 'euphemismos' meaning 'using a favorable speech', from 'eu' meaning 'good' and 'pheme' meaning 'speaking'

3. salvo · noun/ˈsæl.voʊ/

   a simultaneous discharge of artillery or guns or a sudden outburst of cheers or applause

   The military initiated a coordinated salvo of artillery fire to target the enemy stronghold at dawn.

   Synonyms: barrage, cannonade, volley

   Origin: from Latin 'salvō' meaning 'to save or greet, salute' which evolved through the Italian 'salvo' meaning 'a discharge of firearms.'

4. apotheosis · noun/əˌpɑː.θiˈoʊ.sɪs/

   the highest point in the development of something or the elevation of someone to divine status

   The artist's latest work is considered the apotheosis of her career, showcasing her unique style and achievements.

   Synonyms: culmination, elevation, exaltation

   Origin: from Greek 'apotheōsis', meaning 'deification' or 'to make a god', from 'apo-' meaning 'from' and 'theōsis' meaning 'deification'

5. knave · noun/neɪv/

   a deceitful or untrustworthy person

   Despite his charming smile, everyone knew he was a knave who could not be trusted with their secrets.

   Synonyms: rogue, scoundrel, villain

   Origin: Middle English, from Old English 'cneowa' meaning 'boy, lad, servant'