dexterous, equivocal, obsequious, bucolic, fortuitous: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 4. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. dexterous · adjective/ˈdɛk.strəs/

   showing skill and ease in physical movement or mental tasks

   The magician performed a series of dexterous sleights of hand that amazed the audience.

   Synonyms: skillful, adept, nimble

   Origin: from Middle English 'dexterous', from Old French 'destre', from Latin 'dexter' meaning 'right, skillful'.

2. equivocal · adjective/ɪˈkwɪvəkəl/

   open to more than one interpretation ambiguous

   The politician's equivocal response during the press conference left many voters confused about his stance on the issue.

   Synonyms: ambiguous, unclear, doubtful

   Origin: The word 'equivocal' comes from the Latin 'aequivocus', from 'aequus' meaning 'equal' and 'vocare' meaning 'to call'.

3. obsequious · adjective/əbˈsiː.kwi.əs/

   excessively willing to serve or please others

   The obsequious servant catered to his master's every whim, always eager to please and serve.

   Synonyms: servile, ingratiating, fawning

   Origin: Late Latin obsequiosus, from obsequium, meaning 'compliance, servility'.

4. bucolic · adjective/bjuˈkɑːlɪk/

   relating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside and country life

   The artist found inspiration in the bucolic landscapes of the countryside, capturing the serenity of rural life in his paintings.

   Synonyms: rural, pastoral, idyllic

   Origin: from Latin 'bucolicus', meaning 'of herdsmen', from Greek 'boukolikos', from 'boukolos' meaning 'herdsman'.

5. fortuitous · adjective/fɔrˈtɪʃ.əs/

   happening by chance rather than intention

   It was a fortuitous coincidence that they bumped into each other at the coffee shop, reigniting an old friendship.

   Synonyms: accidental, serendipitous, chance

   Origin: from Latin 'fortuitus' meaning 'happening by chance'