SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 67

Set 67 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: verbalization, reproof, nub, nepotism, hubris. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. verbalization · noun/ˌvɜr.bəl.ɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/

   the act of expressing thoughts or feelings in spoken or written words

   Her clear verbalization of complex ideas made the presentation much more engaging for the audience.

   Synonyms: articulation, expression, utterance

   Origin: derived from the Latin word 'verbalizare', meaning to express in words, from the root 'verabilis', meaning 'verbal'.

2. reproof · noun/rɪˈpruf/

   an expression of blame or disapproval

   After his careless mistake, he received a stern reproof from his supervisor during the meeting.

   Synonyms: rebuke, censure, criticism

   Origin: Middle English 'reproef', from Old French 'reprover', from Latin 'reprobare', meaning 'to disapprove'

3. nub · noun/nʌb/

   the central or essential part of something

   The nub of the discussion centered on the key issue of funding for the project.

   Synonyms: core, essence, heart

   Origin: Middle English 'nubbe', of uncertain origin, possibly related to the word 'nob' meaning 'head or top'.

4. nepotism · noun/ˈnɛp.ə.tɪ.zəm/

   favoritism shown to relatives or close friends by those in power especially in hiring or promotions

   The company's culture of nepotism was evident when the CEO promoted his nephew to a senior management position despite a lack of experience.

   Synonyms: favoritism, cronyism, patronage

   Origin: The word 'nepotism' comes from the Italian 'nepotismo,' derived from 'nipote' meaning 'nephew.' It historically referred to the practice of popes and bishops appointing their nephews to positions of power.

5. hubris · noun/ˈhjuː.brɪs/

   excessive pride or self-confidence

   His hubris led him to believe that he was invincible, ignoring all warnings from his advisors.

   Synonyms: arrogance, pride, conceit

   Origin: from Greek 'hubris', meaning excessive pride or self-confidence, originally relating to a sense of outrage or insult.