Set 30 · Study 1 / 5

Exit

dearth

noun/dɜrθ/

definition

a scarcity or lack of something

example

The dearth of affordable housing in the city has made it difficult for low-income families to find suitable places to live.

synonyms
scarcityshortageinsufficiency
word origin — Middle English 'derthe', from Old English 'deorþ' meaning 'precious, costly, or high' in reference to scarcity.

TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 30

Set 30 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: dearth, parity, endeavor, aristocracy, capitalism. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. dearth · noun/dɜrθ/

    a scarcity or lack of something

    The dearth of affordable housing in the city has made it difficult for low-income families to find suitable places to live.

    Synonyms: scarcity, shortage, insufficiency

    Origin: Middle English 'derthe', from Old English 'deorþ' meaning 'precious, costly, or high' in reference to scarcity.

  2. parity · noun/ˈpær.ɪ.ti/

    the state of being equal or equivalent

    Achieving gender parity in the workplace remains a significant challenge for many organizations.

    Synonyms: equivalence, equality, sameness

    Origin: from Latin 'paritas', meaning 'equality', derived from 'par' meaning 'equal'

  3. endeavor · verb/ɪnˈdɛvər/

    to attempt or try to achieve a goal or purpose

    She decided to endeavor to learn a new language before her trip abroad.

    Synonyms: attempt, strive, endeavor

    Origin: from Middle English 'endevoren', which comes from the Old French 'endevoir', meaning 'to put in effort, to put in duty or obligation'

  4. aristocracy · noun/ˌær.ɪsˈtɑ.krə.si/

    a class of people holding exceptional rank and privileges especially the nobility

    During the 18th century, the aristocracy wielded significant power and influence over the political landscape of Europe.

    Synonyms: nobility, elite, gentry

    Origin: derived from the Greek word 'aristokratia', from 'aristos' meaning 'best' and 'kratos' meaning 'power' or 'rule'

  5. capitalism · noun/ˈkæpɪtəlɪzəm/

    an economic system in which private individuals own and control property and businesses

    Many believe that capitalism fosters innovation and economic growth by allowing individuals to own and operate businesses freely.

    Synonyms: market economy, free enterprise, private enterprise

    Origin: The term 'capitalism' derives from 'capital', which comes from the Latin word 'capitale', meaning 'head' or 'property', indicating ownership of capital assets.