a state of tiredness or lethargy often associated with a relaxed or dreamy feeling
example
After a long afternoon under the sun, she succumbed to a delightful languor, drifting off into a peaceful nap.
synonyms
fatiguelethargylanguidness
word origin — From Latin 'languor', meaning 'faintness, weakness', from 'languere', meaning 'to be weak or faint'.
languor, nonchalance, blandishment, rationalization, impiety: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 88. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
languor · noun/ˈlæŋɡər/
a state of tiredness or lethargy often associated with a relaxed or dreamy feeling
After a long afternoon under the sun, she succumbed to a delightful languor, drifting off into a peaceful nap.
Synonyms: fatigue, lethargy, languidness
Origin: From Latin 'languor', meaning 'faintness, weakness', from 'languere', meaning 'to be weak or faint'.
nonchalance · noun/ˌnɑn.ʃəˈlæns/
the state of being casually calm and relaxed; indifference
His nonchalance in the face of danger was both admirable and puzzling.
Synonyms: casualness, indifference, apathy
Origin: The term 'nonchalance' comes from the French word 'nonchalance', which is derived from the Latin 'nonchalare', meaning 'to be indifferent'.
blandishment · noun/ˈblændɪʃmənt/
flattering speech or actions used to persuade someone
Despite the salesperson's charming blandishments, I remained hesitant to make a purchase without further research.
Synonyms: flattery, allurement, cajolery
Origin: The word 'blandishment' comes from the Middle English 'blandisshment,' from Old French 'blandissement,' derived from the Latin 'blandiri,' meaning 'to smooth, to flatter.'
rationalization · noun/ˌræʃ.ən.ə.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/
the process of explaining or justifying one's behavior or decisions logically or reasonably
His rationalization for missing the deadline was that he had too many other commitments, but his boss didn't find it convincing.
Synonyms: justification, explanation, defense
Origin: from Latin 'rationalizatio', from 'rationalis' meaning 'reasonable'.
impiety · noun/ɪmˈpaɪ.ə.ti/
lack of reverence or respect for sacred things
The community was outraged by the impiety exhibited during the festival, which included mockery of their sacred traditions.
Synonyms: irreverence, desecration, blasphemy
Origin: from Middle French 'impieté', from Latin 'impietatem' (nominative 'impietas'), from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'pietas' meaning 'piety'.