decorous, redemptive, musty, resolute, sinewy: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 319. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. decorous · adjective/ˈdɛkərəs/

   proper and respectful in behavior or conduct

   The decorous behavior of the students during the assembly impressed the principal.

   Synonyms: proper, respectful, polite

   Origin: from Latin 'decorus', meaning 'graceful, seemly, proper'

2. redemptive · adjective/rɪˈdɛmp.tɪv/

   relating to the act of redeeming or delivering from sin, error, or evil

   Many believe that forgiveness has a redemptive power that allows individuals to heal from past mistakes.

   Synonyms: redemptory, deliverative, saving

   Origin: from Latin 'redemptivus', from 'redimere', meaning 'to buy back, recover'

3. musty · adjective/ˈmʌsti/

   having a stale, moldy, or damp smell

   The musty smell of the old basement made it clear that it hadn't been ventilated in years.

   Synonyms: stale, moldy, damp

   Origin: The word 'musty' originates from the Middle English 'moste', which comes from the Old French 'moist' meaning damp or humid, and can be traced back to Latin 'muere' meaning to be moldy.

4. resolute · adjective/ˈrɛz.ə.luːt/

   determined and unwavering in purpose or belief

   Despite the numerous challenges she faced, her resolute determination to succeed never wavered.

   Synonyms: determined, steadfast, unwavering

   Origin: Late Middle English, from Latin 'resolutus', past participle of 'resolvere', meaning 'to resolve'.

5. sinewy · adjective/ˈsɪnjuːi/

   having strong, lean muscles and sinews

   The sinewy athlete moved with remarkable agility, showcasing his strong, lean muscles as he sprinted down the track.

   Synonyms: muscular, wiry, lean

   Origin: derived from the Latin 'sinewy', from 'sinew' which means tendon