ornithology, complaisance, prelate, stupor, homily: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 282. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ornithology · noun/ˌɔrnɪˈθɑlədʒi/

   the scientific study of birds

   Her passion for ornithology led her to study various bird species in their natural habitats.

   Synonyms: aviation, bird study, birdwatching

   Origin: from Greek 'ornithon' (bird) + 'logos' (study or discourse)

2. complaisance · noun/kəmˈpleɪzəns/

   the willingness to please others or to accommodate their wishes

   Her complaisance was evident as she eagerly took on extra tasks to ensure her coworkers were happy and comfortable.

   Synonyms: obligingness, compliance, agreeableness

   Origin: from French 'complaisance', derived from 'complaisant', meaning 'obliging' or 'willing to please'.

3. prelate · noun/ˈprɛlət/

   a high-ranking member of the clergy, typically in a position of authority

   The prelate delivered a powerful sermon that moved the congregation to reflect on their faith.

   Synonyms: clergyman, bishop, priest

   Origin: From Latin 'praelatus', meaning 'carried before' or 'to be preferred'.

4. stupor · noun/ˈstuː.pər/

   a state of near-unconsciousness or insensibility

   After the accident, he lay in a stupor, oblivious to the chaos around him.

   Synonyms: daze, trance, unconsciousness

   Origin: Early 17th century: from Latin stupor, meaning 'numbness' or 'insensibility'.

5. homily · noun/ˈhɑː.mə.li/

   a religious discourse intended for spiritual edification rather than doctrinal instruction

   During the Sunday service, the pastor delivered a heartfelt homily that inspired the congregation to reflect on their spiritual journeys.

   Synonyms: sermon, discourse, lecture

   Origin: from late Latin 'homilia', from Greek 'homilia' meaning 'conversation' or 'discourse'