the highest point reached by a celestial or other object
example
The stars reached their zenith in the clear night sky, creating a breathtaking view for all to see.
synonyms
peaksummitpinnacle
word origin — The word 'zenith' comes from the Arabic word 'samt,' meaning 'direction' or 'path,' which passed into Old Spanish as 'cenit.' It was then adopted into Middle English.
zenith, sacrifice, impurity, structure, respite: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 142. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
zenith · noun/ˈziː.nəθ/
the highest point reached by a celestial or other object
The stars reached their zenith in the clear night sky, creating a breathtaking view for all to see.
Synonyms: peak, summit, pinnacle
Origin: The word 'zenith' comes from the Arabic word 'samt,' meaning 'direction' or 'path,' which passed into Old Spanish as 'cenit.' It was then adopted into Middle English.
sacrifice · noun/ˈsækrəˌfaɪs/
the act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else
Her decision to take a part-time job was a significant sacrifice for her, as it meant giving up her social life.
Synonyms: offering, relinquishment, forgoing
Origin: from Old French 'sacrifice', from Latin 'sacrificium', from 'sacer' (sacred) + 'facere' (to make)
impurity · noun/ɪmˈpjuːr.ɪ.ti/
the quality or state of being mixed with extraneous or inappropriate elements
The scientist noted that the impurity in the sample could affect the accuracy of the experiment.
Synonyms: contamination, adulteration, taint
Origin: from Middle French 'impurite', from Latin 'impuritas', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'purus' meaning 'pure'.
structure · noun/ˈstrʌk.tʃɚ/
the arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex
The **structural** design of the building allows it to withstand earthquakes.
Synonyms: framework, organization, arrangement
Origin: from Latin 'structura' meaning 'a fitting together, building'; related to 'struere' meaning 'to build'
respite · noun/ˈrɛspaɪt/
a short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant
After a long week of intense work, she finally took a much-needed respite to recharge her energy.
Synonyms: break, relief, intermission
Origin: from Old French 'respit', from Latin 'respectus', meaning 'a looking back, regard, or consideration'