TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 59

Set 59 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: surreptitious, extraneous, debilitated, intricate, psychic. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. surreptitious · adjective/ˌsɝːəpˈtɪʃəs/

   kept secret, especially because illicit

   The surreptitious meeting took place in a dimly lit café, away from prying eyes.

   Synonyms: secret, clandestine, covert

   Origin: from Latin 'surreptitius' meaning 'taken secretly or by theft', from 'surripere' meaning 'to seize or take away secretly'

2. extraneous · adjective/ɛkˈstreɪ.ni.əs/

   not essential or relevant

   The report was filled with extraneous details that detracted from the main argument.

   Synonyms: irrelevant, unrelated, superfluous

   Origin: from the Latin 'extraneus,' meaning 'outside, external'

3. debilitated · adjective/dɪˈbɪlɪˌteɪtɪd/

   in a very weakened and infirm state

   After a long battle with illness, she was left in a debilitated state, unable to perform even the simplest tasks.

   Synonyms: weakened, incapacitated, feeble

   Origin: from Latin 'debilitare', meaning 'to weaken', from 'de-' (down) + 'bilis' (weak)

4. intricate · adjective/ˈɪn.trɪ.kət/

   having many complex and interrelated parts

   The intricate design of the ancient tapestry revealed a story rich with symbolism and detail.

   Synonyms: complex, complicated, elaborate

   Origin: from Latin 'intricatus', meaning 'entangled, confused, perplexed'

5. psychic · adjective/ˈsaɪkɪk/

   relating to the soul or mind or having abilities to perceive information beyond normal sensory contact

   She sought the advice of a psychic medium to gain insight into her past lives.

   Synonyms: metaphysical, intuitive, extrasensory

   Origin: from the Greek word 'psyche' meaning 'soul' or 'mind'