ungovernable, impecunious, demonstrative, smug, unselfish: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 31. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ungovernable · adjective/ʌnˈɡʌvərnəbl/

   not able to be governed or controlled

   The ungovernable nature of the crowd made it difficult for the authorities to restore order.

   Synonyms: uncontrollable, rebellious, wild

   Origin: Late Middle English: from un- 'not' + governable (from Old French gouvernable, from gouverner 'to govern', from Latin gubernare).

2. impecunious · adjective/ɪmˈpɛkjənɪəs/

   having little or no money

   Despite his impressive education, he remained an impecunious artist, struggling to make ends meet.

   Synonyms: poor, destitute, needy

   Origin: from Latin 'impecuniosus', from 'in-' (not) + 'pecunia' (money)

3. demonstrative · adjective/dɪˈmɑːnstrətɪv/

   serving to demonstrate or illustrate a point

   The teacher used a demonstrative approach in her lecture, incorporating visual aids to help clarify complex concepts.

   Synonyms: illustrative, indicative, explanatory

   Origin: From Latin 'demonstrativus', meaning 'serving to demonstrate'.

4. smug · adjective/smʌɡ/

   having or showing an excessive pride in oneself or one's achievements

   After winning the championship, he wore a smug smile that made everyone around him roll their eyes.

   Synonyms: complacent, self-satisfied, conceited

   Origin: Late 18th century, possibly from the dialect 'smugge' meaning 'neat' or 'smart'.

5. unselfish · adjective/ʌnˈsɛlfɪʃ/

   showing selfless concern for the well-being of others

   Her unselfish acts of kindness often inspire those around her to think of others first.

   Synonyms: selfless, altruistic, magnanimous

   Origin: From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' + 'selfish' derived from 'self' + '-ish', originally from Old English 'selfa'.