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vicissitude

noun/vɪˈsɪsɪˌtud/

definition

a change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant

example

The vicissitudes of life often teach us valuable lessons, even when they come in the form of hardship.

synonyms
changefluctuationshift
word origin — From Latin 'vicissitudo', meaning 'a turn' or 'change'; related to 'vicis', meaning 'a change' or 'alternation'.

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 51

Set 51 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: vicissitude, quiescence, narcissist, rancor, credulity. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. vicissitude · noun/vɪˈsɪsɪˌtud/

    a change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant

    The vicissitudes of life often teach us valuable lessons, even when they come in the form of hardship.

    Synonyms: change, fluctuation, shift

    Origin: From Latin 'vicissitudo', meaning 'a turn' or 'change'; related to 'vicis', meaning 'a change' or 'alternation'.

  2. quiescence · noun/kwɪˈɛs.əns/

    a state of inactivity or rest

    The quiescence of the forest during winter creates a peaceful atmosphere as nature rests.

    Synonyms: inactivity, repose, dormancy

    Origin: from Latin 'quiescentia', meaning 'rest' or 'quietness'

  3. narcissist · noun/ˈnɑr.sɪ.sɪst/

    a person who has an excessive interest in or admiration of themselves

    His behavior was typical of a narcissist, constantly seeking admiration and validation from others.

    Synonyms: self-obsessed, egotist, self-centered

    Origin: The term 'narcissist' originates from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, leading to his demise.

  4. rancor · noun/ˈræŋkər/

    bitterness or resentfulness, especially when long-standing

    Despite their long-standing feud, she decided to forgive him and let go of the rancor that had built up over the years.

    Synonyms: resentment, bitterness, animosity

    Origin: from Latin 'rancor', meaning 'bitterness' or 'rankness'

  5. credulity · noun/krɪˈduː.lɪ.ti/

    a tendency to be too ready to believe something is true

    His extraordinary credulity allowed him to accept even the most outrageous conspiracy theories without question.

    Synonyms: gullibility, naivety, credence

    Origin: from Latin 'credulitas', from 'credulus', meaning 'believing, trusting', from 'credere', meaning 'to believe'