TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 159

Set 159 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: agrarian, quixotic, pernicious, daunting, cosmopolitan. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. agrarian · adjective/əˈɡrɛriən/

   relating to cultivated land or the cultivation of land

   The country implemented new agrarian policies to support sustainable farming practices and improve crop yields.

   Synonyms: rural, farming, agricultural

   Origin: from Latin 'agrarius' meaning 'pertaining to land, land, field'

2. quixotic · adjective/kwɪkˈsɑːtɪk/

   exceedingly idealistic unrealistic and impractical

   His quixotic quest for world peace often led him to overlook practical solutions that could make a real difference.

   Synonyms: idealistic, impractical, visionary

   Origin: The word 'quixotic' originates from 'Don Quixote', a novel written by Miguel de Cervantes in the early 17th century, featuring a character who is characterized by his lofty ideals and impractical pursuits.

3. pernicious · adjective/pərˈnɪʃ.əs/

   having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way

   The pernicious effects of unchecked social media use can damage teenagers' mental health over time.

   Synonyms: harmful, destructive, detrimental

   Origin: Late Middle English from Latin 'perniciosus', from 'pernicies' meaning 'ruin, destruction'

4. daunting · adjective/ˈdɔntɪŋ/

   intimidating or overwhelming in difficulty or challenge

   The daunting task of climbing the mountain made many climbers reconsider their plans.

   Synonyms: challenging, intimidating, formidable

   Origin: The word 'daunt' comes from the Old French 'danter' meaning 'to tame, subdue, or intimidate', which is derived from the Latin 'domitare', a frequentative of 'domare' meaning 'to tame or subdue'.

5. cosmopolitan · adjective/ˌkɑzməˈpɑlɪtən/

   representing a variety of cultures and countries

   The city's cosmopolitan atmosphere attracts tourists from all over the world, eager to experience its rich cultural diversity.

   Synonyms: sophisticated, multicultural, diverse

   Origin: The word 'cosmopolitan' originates from the Greek 'kosmopolites,' meaning 'citizen of the world,' derived from 'kosmos' (world) and 'polites' (citizen).