SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 295

Set 295 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: tenacity, reverie, lummox, provocation, portent. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. tenacity · noun/tɪˈnæs.ɪ.ti/

   the quality of being determined and persistent

   Her tenacity in pursuing her goals despite numerous setbacks inspired everyone around her.

   Synonyms: determination, persistence, steadfastness

   Origin: from Latin 'tenacitas', from 'tenax' meaning 'holding fast'

2. reverie · noun/ˈrɛv.əˌri/

   a state of being pleasantly lost in one’s thoughts

   Lost in a delightful reverie, she barely noticed the time passing by as she daydreamed about her future adventures.

   Synonyms: daydream, trance, reverie

   Origin: The word 'reverie' originates from the French word 'rêverie', which means 'daydream' or 'musing', derived from 'rêver', meaning 'to dream'.

3. lummox · noun/ˈlʌməks/

   a clumsy and unintelligent person

   Even though he meant well, his lummox behavior often got him into trouble at work.

   Synonyms: oaf, clumsy, lout

   Origin: The word 'lummox' is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, possibly derived from 'lump' combined with the dialectal word 'muck' or a similar-sounding word.

4. provocation · noun/ˌprɑː.vəˈkeɪ.ʃən/

   the act of provoking or inciting someone to take action

   His constant taunts served as a provocation that ultimately led to a heated argument.

   Synonyms: incitement, provocation, instigation

   Origin: The word 'provocation' originates from the Latin 'provocatio', which stems from 'provocare', meaning 'to call forth' or 'to challenge'.

5. portent · noun/ˈpɔrtɛnt/

   a sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen

   The darkening sky was a portent of the severe storm that was about to hit the coast.

   Synonyms: omen, sign, warning

   Origin: from Middle English, from Latin 'portentum', meaning 'a foreboding or omen', from 'portendere' meaning 'to foretell'