TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 115

Set 115 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: devoid, dejected, crafty, supercilious, grandiose. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. devoid · adjective/dɪˈvɔɪd/

   completely lacking or without something

   The landscape was devoid of any vegetation, making it look desolate and barren.

   Synonyms: lacking, empty, vacant

   Origin: from Old French 'devoider', meaning 'deprive, empty out', from Latin 'devoidus', meaning 'emptied, deprived'

2. dejected · adjective/dɪˈdʒɛktɪd/

   feeling sad and discouraged

   After receiving the rejection letter from her dream school, she felt utterly dejected about her future.

   Synonyms: downcast, despondent, disheartened

   Origin: from Latin 'dejectus', past participle of 'deicere', meaning to throw down

3. crafty · adjective/ˈkræfti/

   skillful in achieving one’s aims by indirect or deceitful methods

   The crafty politician managed to sway public opinion with a series of misleading statements during the campaign.

   Synonyms: cunning, sly, deceitful

   Origin: Middle English 'crafti', from 'craft' + '-y'

4. supercilious · adjective/ˌsuː.pərˈsɪl.jəs/

   behaving or looking as though one thinks one is superior to others

   The supercilious smile of the wealthy patron made it clear that he looked down on everyone else in the room.

   Synonyms: haughty, arrogant, condescending

   Origin: From Latin 'superciliosus', from 'supercilium' meaning 'eyebrow' or 'haughtiness', implying a raised eyebrow as a sign of disdain.

5. grandiose · adjective/ˈɡrænd.i.oʊs/

   characterized by excessive ambition or grandeur

   His grandiose plans for the new hotel included multiple swimming pools, a spa, and a rooftop restaurant.

   Synonyms: extravagant, ostentatious, flamboyant

   Origin: from French 'grandiose', from 'grand' meaning 'large' or 'great'