fervid, serpentine, dogged, uninitiated, unstinting: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 9. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. fervid · adjective/ˈfɜrvɪd/

   intensely passionate or enthusiastic

   The fervid supporters filled the stadium, chanting in unison to cheer for their team.

   Synonyms: zealous, passionate, ardent

   Origin: from Latin 'fervidus', meaning 'boiling', 'hot', or 'ardent'

2. serpentine · adjective/ˈsɜrpənˌtin/

   resembling a serpent in form or movement; winding or twisting

   The hikers navigated through the serpentine trails of the lush forest, each turn revealing a new breathtaking view.

   Synonyms: curvy, winding, twisting

   Origin: from Latin 'serpentinus' meaning 'of a serpent', from 'serpens', which means 'serpent'.

3. dogged · adjective/ˈdɔːɡɪd/

   persistent in effort or determination

   Despite numerous setbacks, her dogged determination to succeed led her to achieve her goals.

   Synonyms: persistent, determined, tenacious

   Origin: The word 'dogged' originated from the Middle English 'dogged' which meant 'having the qualities of a dog,' derived from 'dog.' The figurative meaning of persistent or determined effort developed over time.

4. uninitiated · adjective/ˌʌnɪˈnɪʃ.eɪ.tɪd/

   lacking knowledge or experience in a particular subject or activity

   The technical jargon used in the meeting was confusing for the uninitiated participants.

   Synonyms: uninformed, inexperienced, naivete

   Origin: The word 'uninitiated' is formed from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not', and 'initiated', derived from the Latin 'initiare' meaning 'to begin' or 'to introduce'.

5. unstinting · adjective/ʌnˈstɪn.tɪŋ/

   given or giving freely and generously

   Her unstinting support during my difficult times made all the difference in my recovery.

   Synonyms: generous, ungrudging, lavish

   Origin: The word 'unstinting' is derived from the verb 'stint', which means to restrict or limit. The prefix 'un-' negates the limitation, thus 'unstinting' conveys the sense of being generous and free in giving.