veritable, pensive, inelegant, timorous, reactionary: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 50. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. veritable · adjective/ˈvɛrɪtəbl/

   used as an intensifier, often to qualify a metaphor or emphasize the truth of a statement

   The storm created a veritable sea of chaos in the once peaceful town.

   Synonyms: genuine, true, authentic

   Origin: from Middle French 'véritable', from Latin 'veritabilis', from 'veritas' meaning 'truth'.

2. pensive · adjective/ˈpɛn.sɪv/

   engaged in serious thought or reflection

   She sat by the window, a pensive look on her face as she contemplated her future.

   Synonyms: thoughtful, contemplative, reflective

   Origin: Middle English 'pensif' from Old French 'pensif', from 'penser' which means 'to think'.

3. inelegant · adjective/ɪˈnɛləɡənt/

   lacking in refinement or grace

   Her inelegant manner of speaking made it difficult for others to take her seriously during the presentation.

   Synonyms: ungraceful, awkward, clumsy

   Origin: The word 'inelegant' comes from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and the Latin root 'elegans', which means 'choosing, selecting, or refined'.

4. timorous · adjective/ˈtɪmərəs/

   showing or suffering from nervousness or a lack of confidence

   The timorous student hesitated to speak up in class, fearing that her answer might be incorrect.

   Synonyms: timid, cowardly, apprehensive

   Origin: from Latin 'timorosus', from 'timor' meaning 'fear'

5. reactionary · adjective/riˈækʃəˌnɛri/

   opposing political or social progress or reform

   The reactionary policies implemented by the government have stifled innovation and prevented necessary reforms in education.

   Synonyms: conservative, reactionist, antiprogressive

   Origin: from the word 'reaction', originating in the early 19th century, derived from the Latin 'reactio', meaning 'a doing again'.