ruddy, clammy, hermetic, imperturbable, impenetrable: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 244. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ruddy · adjective/ˈrʌdi/

   having a healthy red color

   After a day of hiking in the sun, his cheeks were a bright ruddy shade, showing off his healthy glow.

   Synonyms: rosy, flushed, sanguine

   Origin: Old English 'rūþig', related to 'rud' meaning red, often used to describe a healthy complexion.

2. clammy · adjective/ˈklæmi/

   unpleasantly damp and cold

   After the storm, the clammy air made it difficult to breathe comfortably inside the house.

   Synonyms: damp, moist, sweaty

   Origin: Originates from Middle English 'clammy' meaning 'sticky, adhesive', possibly influenced by the word 'clame' (to cling or adhere).

3. hermetic · adjective/hɜrˈmɛtɪk/

   airtight or completely sealed off from outside influence

   The scientists stored the samples in hermetic vials to ensure that no contamination could occur.

   Synonyms: airtight, sealed, insulated

   Origin: The word 'hermetic' comes from the name of the ancient Greek god Hermes, associated with alchemy and the idea of being completely sealed.

4. imperturbable · adjective/ɪmˈpɚtɝːbəl/

   unable to be upset or excited; calm and composed

   Despite the chaos of the event around her, she remained imperturbable, never once losing her cool under pressure.

   Synonyms: unflappable, calm, composed

   Origin: from the Latin 'imperturbabilis', meaning 'not able to be disturbed'

5. impenetrable · adjective/ɪmˈpɛn.ɪ.trə.bəl/

   impossible to pass through or enter

   The thick jungle was impenetrable, making it nearly impossible for explorers to navigate through the dense foliage.

   Synonyms: impossible, impassable, inaccessible

   Origin: Late Latin 'impenetrabilis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'penetrabilis' meaning 'able to be penetrated'