She gave a contemptuous sneer when he suggested that she needed help with her project.
synonyms
scornfuldisdainfulderisive
word origin — Originating from the Latin word 'contemptuosus', which means 'full of contempt', from 'contemptus', meaning 'scorn, disdain'.
contemptuous, uncanny, axiomatic, mellifluous, dulcet: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 95. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
contemptuous · adjective/kənˈtɛmptʃuəs/
showing or expressing disdain or scorn
She gave a contemptuous sneer when he suggested that she needed help with her project.
Synonyms: scornful, disdainful, derisive
Origin: Originating from the Latin word 'contemptuosus', which means 'full of contempt', from 'contemptus', meaning 'scorn, disdain'.
uncanny · adjective/ʌnˈkæni/
strangely unsettling or eerie in a way that is difficult to explain
The uncanny resemblance between the two paintings made visitors feel as though they were looking at the same artwork from a different time.
Synonyms: eerie, strange, unsettling
Origin: From the Scots word 'uncanny', which combines 'un-' (not) and 'canny' (knowing, shrewd; later evolved to mean strange or mysterious)
axiomatic · adjective/ˌæksɪˈmætɪk/
self-evident or unquestionable
It is axiomatic that honesty is the best policy in any relationship.
Synonyms: self-evident, unquestionable, obvious
Origin: from late Latin 'axiomaticus', from Greek 'axiōmatikos', from 'axioō' meaning 'to make worthy, to value'
mellifluous · adjective/məˈlɪf.lu.əs/
having a smooth and pleasing sound
The singer's mellifluous voice captivated the entire audience during the concert.
Synonyms: melodious, harmonious, dulcet
Origin: The word 'mellifluous' comes from the Latin 'mellifluus', which means 'honeyed' (from 'mel' meaning 'honey' and 'fluere' meaning 'to flow').
dulcet · adjective/ˈdʌlsɪt/
sweet and soothing to the ear
The dulcet tones of the piano filled the room, creating a peaceful atmosphere that everyone enjoyed.
Synonyms: melodious, harmonious, sweet-sounding
Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'dulcet', from Latin 'dulcis' meaning 'sweet'.