His comment during the meeting was a huge gaffe that made everyone uncomfortable.
synonyms
blunderfaux pasmistake
word origin — The term 'gaffe' originates from the French word 'gaffe', which means 'hook' or 'clumsy action'. It was adopted into English in the early 20th century.
SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 313
Set 313 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: gaffe, opulence, crossbreed, reprieve, throng. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
gaffe · noun/ɡæf/
a socially awkward or clumsy act or remark
His comment during the meeting was a huge gaffe that made everyone uncomfortable.
Synonyms: blunder, faux pas, mistake
Origin: The term 'gaffe' originates from the French word 'gaffe', which means 'hook' or 'clumsy action'. It was adopted into English in the early 20th century.
opulence · noun/ˈɑːpjələns/
great wealth or luxuriousness
The opulence of the royal palace was evident in its gold-plated fixtures and extravagant chandeliers.
Synonyms: luxury, wealth, affluence
Origin: from Latin 'opulentia' meaning 'riches, wealth', derived from 'opulentus' meaning 'wealthy, rich'.
crossbreed · noun/ˈkrɔs.briːd/
a hybrid produced by breeding different species or varieties
The Labradoodle is a popular crossbreed that combines the intelligence of a Labrador Retriever with the hypoallergenic coat of a Poodle.
Synonyms: hybrid, mixed breed, cross
Origin: The word 'crossbreed' originates from the combination of 'cross', meaning to mix or combine, and 'breed', which comes from Old English ' bredan', meaning to produce or bring forth.
reprieve · noun/rəˈpriːv/
a temporary relief from punishment or distress
The judge granted a temporary reprieve from the harsh sentencing, allowing the defendant to seek rehabilitation first.
Synonyms: stay, respite, suspension
Origin: Middle English 'reprieve', from Old French 'reprïever' meaning 'to take back' or 'to seize again', from Latin 'reprehendere' meaning 'to catch' or 'to seize'.
throng · noun/θrɔŋ/
a large, densely packed crowd of people
The throng of excited fans surged forward when the concert doors opened, eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite band.
Synonyms: crowd, multitude, mob
Origin: Middle English 'throngen', from Old English 'þrēongan' meaning to press together.