heckler, conscript, propriety, frond, raiment: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 45. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. heckler · noun/ˈhɛklɚ/

   a person who interrupts a public speaker with disparaging comments or questions

   The comedian dealt with the heckler in the front row by turning their insults into a humorous response that had the audience laughing.

   Synonyms: troll, disruptor, instigator

   Origin: The word 'heckler' comes from the term 'heckle', which has its roots in the early 19th-century Scottish word 'heck', meaning to interrupt or disturb. The verb 'to heckle' emerged in the theater context, referring to the act of interrupting speech.

2. conscript · verb/kənˈskrɪpt/

   to enroll someone compulsorily in the armed forces

   During the war, many young men were conscripted into the military against their will.

   Synonyms: draft, enlist, recruit

   Origin: From Latin 'conscribere', meaning 'to enroll' or 'to write together'.

3. propriety · noun/prəˈpraɪəṭi/

   the quality of being proper or suitable

   She was known for her sense of propriety, always adhering to the expected standards of behavior at formal events.

   Synonyms: suitability, decorum, appropriateness

   Origin: From Latin 'proprietas' meaning 'property, ownership', from 'proprius' meaning 'one's own'.

4. frond · noun/frɑnd/

   a large, divided leaf especially of a fern or palm

   The lush garden was filled with vibrant green fronds that swayed gently in the breeze.

   Synonyms: leaf, foliage, palm leaf

   Origin: From Latin 'frondis', meaning 'leaf or foliage'.

5. raiment · noun/ˈreɪ.mənt/

   clothing or garments

   The king was adorned in splendid raiment, befitting his royal status.

   Synonyms: clothing, garments, apparel

   Origin: from Old French 'raiment', from 're-', meaning 'again' + 'mettre', meaning 'to put on'