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saga

noun/ˈsɑɡə/

definition

a long, involved story, often detailing the history of a family or hero

example

The family's saga was filled with tales of bravery and hardship, passed down through generations.

synonyms
talenarrativelegend
word origin — from Old Norse 'saga' meaning 'a story, tale, or account'

saga, dividends, banter, nostalgia, literacy: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 194. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

  1. saga · noun/ˈsɑɡə/

    a long, involved story, often detailing the history of a family or hero

    The family's saga was filled with tales of bravery and hardship, passed down through generations.

    Synonyms: tale, narrative, legend

    Origin: from Old Norse 'saga' meaning 'a story, tale, or account'

  2. dividends · noun/ˈdɪvɪˌdɛnd/

    a sum of money paid regularly by a company to its shareholders out of its profits

    Shareholders were pleased to receive their annual dividends this week, reflecting the company's strong performance over the past year.

    Synonyms: payout, distribution, return

    Origin: from Latin 'dividendum', meaning 'something to be divided', from 'dividere' meaning 'to divide'

  3. banter · noun/ˈbæn.t̬ɚ/

    light, playful, and friendly conversation or teasing

    The playful banter between the two friends made the gathering much more enjoyable.

    Synonyms: chit-chat, repartee, jesting

    Origin: The term 'banter' originates from the late 17th century, presumably from the French word 'banter,' which means to jest or taunt. It is thought to be derived from the earlier English word 'bante,' which refers to a kind of lighthearted teasing.

  4. nostalgia · noun/nɑˈstældʒə/

    a sentimental longing for the past typically for a period or place with happy personal associations

    As she flipped through the old photo album, a wave of nostalgia washed over her, reminding her of carefree summer days spent at her grandmother's house.

    Synonyms: wistfulness, reminiscence, homesickness

    Origin: from Greek 'nostos' meaning 'return home' and 'algos' meaning 'pain' or 'sorrow'

  5. literacy · noun/ˈlɪt̬.ər.ə.si/

    the ability to read and write and understand written language

    Improving adult literacy is essential for fostering economic growth in developing countries.

    Synonyms: reading proficiency, literacy skills, written language proficiency

    Origin: from the Latin 'literacia', derived from 'litera' meaning 'letter'