TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 55

Set 55 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: deference, decree, veracity, attribute, fervor. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. deference · noun/ˈdɛfərəns/

   respectful submission to the judgment or opinion of another

   Out of deference to her years of experience, the committee decided to follow her recommendations closely.

   Synonyms: respect, regard, submission

   Origin: Originating from the late Middle English, derived from the Latin 'deferentia', meaning 'to carry down' or 'to yield'.

2. decree · noun/dɪˈkri/

   an official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority

   The government issued a decree to enforce new safety regulations in the workplace.

   Synonyms: order, edict, mandate

   Origin: from Old French 'decret', from Latin 'decretum', meaning 'something decided'

3. veracity · noun/vəˈræ.sɪ.ti/

   truthfulness or accuracy

   The journalist's commitment to the veracity of her reports earned her the trust of her readers.

   Synonyms: truthfulness, accuracy, honesty

   Origin: from Latin 'veracitas', from 'verax', meaning 'truthful'

4. attribute · noun/ˈætrɪˌbjuːt/

   a quality or characteristic of someone or something

   Her kindness is an admirable attribute that everyone appreciates.

   Synonyms: quality, characteristic, trait

   Origin: Late Middle English, from Latin 'attributus', past participle of 'attribuere', meaning 'to assign, allot, or attribute'

5. fervor · noun/ˈfɜrvər/

   intense and passionate feeling

   The crowd cheered with fervor as the team scored the winning goal.

   Synonyms: zeal, passion, enthusiasm

   Origin: from Latin 'fervor', meaning 'heat' or 'boiling'.