empirical, indisputable, irascible, delectable, esoteric: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 63. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. empirical · adjective/ɪmˈpɪr.ɪ.kəl/

   based on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic

   The researchers conducted an empirical study to gather data on how patients respond to the new medication.

   Synonyms: observational, experiential, practical

   Origin: from Greek 'empirikos', meaning 'experienced' or 'practitioner', derived from 'empeiria', meaning 'experience'

2. indisputable · adjective/ˌɪndɪˈspjuːtəbəl/

   unable to be challenged or denied

   Her talent for music is indisputable, as she has won numerous competitions and accolades.

   Synonyms: undeniable, irrefutable, incontrovertible

   Origin: Late Middle English, from Old French indisputable, from in- 'not' + disputable

3. irascible · adjective/ɪˈræs.ə.bəl/

   easily provoked to anger

   Despite his irascible temperament, he managed to stay calm during the meeting.

   Synonyms: irritable, testy, grumpy

   Origin: from Latin 'irascibilis', from 'irasci' meaning 'to be angry'

4. delectable · adjective/dɪˈlɛk.tə.bəl/

   delicious and mouthwatering

   The chef prepared a delectable dessert that left everyone wanting more.

   Synonyms: delicious, mouthwatering, appetizing

   Origin: From Latin 'delectabilis', meaning 'delightful', from 'delectare' meaning 'to delight'.

5. esoteric · adjective/ˌɛs.əˈtɛr.ɪk/

   intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge

   The professor's lecture on quantum mechanics was filled with esoteric concepts that only a handful of students could grasp.

   Synonyms: abstruse, arcane, obscure

   Origin: The word 'esoteric' originates from the Greek 'esōterikos', meaning 'inner' or 'belonging to an inner circle'.