unwieldy, tepid, solicitous, incognito, fragmentary: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 269. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. unwieldy · adjective/ʌnˈwiːl.di/

   difficult to carry or manage because of size, shape, or complexity

   The large, unwieldy box was difficult to maneuver through the narrow doorway.

   Synonyms: awkward, cumbersome, bulky

   Origin: Middle English 'unwieldy', from 'un-' meaning 'not' + 'wieldy', from Old English 'wielldan', meaning 'to be able to handle or manage'

2. tepid · adjective/ˈtɛpɪd/

   moderately warm lacking in passion or force

   The tepid response from the audience indicated that they were not particularly interested in the presentation.

   Synonyms: lukewarm, warmish, half-hearted

   Origin: from Latin 'tepidus', meaning 'warm, lukewarm'.

3. solicitous · adjective/səˈlɪsɪtəs/

   showing concern or care for someone or something

   The solicitous nurse checked on her patients regularly to ensure their comfort and well-being.

   Synonyms: concerned, caring, attentive

   Origin: from Latin 'sollicitus', meaning 'anxious, disturbed, or agitated', which is derived from 'sollicitare', meaning 'to disturb or trouble'

4. incognito · adjective/ˌɪn.kɑˈɡniˌtoʊ/

   having one's true identity concealed

   To avoid the media frenzy, the celebrity decided to travel incognito during her vacation.

   Synonyms: disguised, hidden, concealed

   Origin: from Latin 'incognitus', meaning 'unknown'.

5. fragmentary · adjective/ˈfræɡ.mənˌtɛr.i/

   consisting of small parts that are incomplete or not whole

   The archaeologist uncovered fragmentary remains of an ancient civilization, piecing together a history that was once thought to be lost.

   Synonyms: incomplete, partial, piecemeal

   Origin: from Latin 'fragmentarius', from 'fragmentum' meaning 'fragment'