avuncular, discordant, quixotic, sedate, lugubrious: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 60. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. avuncular · adjective/əˈvʌŋkjələr/

   kind and friendly like an uncle

   His avuncular demeanor made it easy for the children to approach him with their problems.

   Synonyms: uncle-like, kind, friendly

   Origin: The word 'avuncular' originates from the Latin 'avunculus,' meaning 'maternal uncle,' which is a diminutive form of 'avus,' meaning 'grandfather.'

2. discordant · adjective/dɪsˈkɔrdənt/

   lacking harmony or agreement

   The discordant notes from the piano created an unsettling atmosphere in the room.

   Synonyms: disagreeing, conflicting, incongruous

   Origin: from Latin 'discordans', present participle of 'discordare', meaning 'to disagree'.

3. quixotic · adjective/kwɪkˈsɑːtɪk/

   exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical

   His quixotic adventures in the world of politics often left his friends bewildered by his unrealistic hopes for change.

   Synonyms: idealistic, fanciful, romantic

   Origin: The word 'quixotic' is derived from the character Don Quixote in Miguel de Cervantes' novel, published in 1605. The character embodies impractical ideals and romantic notions, leading to the term's current meaning of being exceedingly idealistic.

4. sedate · adjective/sɪˈdeɪt/

   calm and composed in manner or style

   Despite the chaos around them, she maintained a sedate demeanor, calmly addressing the concerns raised by the team.

   Synonyms: calm, composed, tranquil

   Origin: from Latin 'sedare', meaning 'to calm' or 'to soothe'

5. lugubrious · adjective/ləˈɡubriəs/

   looking or sounding sad and dismal

   The lugubrious music played at the funeral filled the air with a sense of melancholy.

   Synonyms: mournful, dismal, gloomy

   Origin: from Latin 'lugubris' meaning 'mournful'