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phenomenon

noun/fəˈnɑːməˌnɑːn/

an extraordinary event or occurrence that is observable or remarkable

The Northern Lights are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that draws thousands of tourists each year.

marvelspectacleoccurrence
word origin — from Greek 'phainomenon' meaning 'that which appears or is seen'

TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 149

Set 149 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: phenomenon, frugality, evolution, cure, hiatus. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. phenomenon · noun/fəˈnɑːməˌnɑːn/

    an extraordinary event or occurrence that is observable or remarkable

    The Northern Lights are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that draws thousands of tourists each year.

    Synonyms: marvel, spectacle, occurrence

    Origin: from Greek 'phainomenon' meaning 'that which appears or is seen'

  2. frugality · noun/fruˈɡæləti/

    the quality of being economical with resources or avoiding waste

    Her frugality in managing household expenses allowed her to save a substantial amount for her children's education.

    Synonyms: thrift, economy, frugality

    Origin: from Middle French 'frugalité', from Latin 'frugalitas', from 'frugalis' meaning 'frugal, thrifty'

  3. evolution · noun/ˌiː.vəˈluː.ʃən/

    a gradual process in which something changes into a different and usually more complex or better form

    The evolution of technology has transformed how we communicate and access information.

    Synonyms: development, progression, growth

    Origin: From Latin 'evolutio', meaning 'unfolding', from 'evolvere', meaning 'to roll out, to unfold'.

  4. cure · noun/kjʊr/

    a means of healing or restoring health

    The doctor explained that there is currently no cure for the disease, but ongoing research offers hope for a breakthrough.

    Synonyms: remedy, treatment, antidote

    Origin: from Middle English 'cure', from Old French 'coire', from Latin 'cura' meaning 'care, concern, management'.

  5. hiatus · noun/haɪˈeɪtəs/

    a pause or break in continuity

    After several years of constant touring, the band decided to take a hiatus to focus on their individual projects.

    Synonyms: break, gap, pause

    Origin: from Latin 'hiatus', meaning 'opening, gap, or break'