TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 7

Set 7 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: dormant, unctuous, parochial, benevolent, inane. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. dormant · adjective/ˈdɔrmənt/

   in a state of rest or inactivity

   The seeds lay dormant in the soil until the spring rains brought them to life.

   Synonyms: inactive, asleep, quiet

   Origin: From Old French 'dormant', present participle of 'dormir' meaning 'to sleep'; from Latin 'dormiens', present participle of 'dormire'.

2. unctuous · adjective/ˈʌŋk.tʃəs/

   excessively flattering or ingratiating in manner

   His unctuous praise made it clear he was more interested in winning favor than being sincere.

   Synonyms: insincere, greasy, oily

   Origin: derived from the Latin word 'unctuosus', meaning 'oily, greasy', which comes from 'unctus', the past participle of 'unguere', meaning 'to anoint'.

3. parochial · adjective/pəˈroʊ.kɪ.əl/

   relating to a parish or local community narrow in scope or limited in outlook

   The committee's parochial interests often overshadowed broader community needs.

   Synonyms: narrow, local, provincial

   Origin: from Old French 'parochiel', from Late Latin 'parochialis', based on 'parochia' meaning parish

4. benevolent · adjective/bəˈnɛv.ələnt/

   well-meaning and kindly

   The benevolent woman dedicated her weekends to volunteering at the local shelter, always offering her time and resources to those in need.

   Synonyms: kind, generous, altruistic

   Origin: from Latin 'benevolens', meaning 'well-disposed'; from 'bene' (well) + 'velle' (to wish)

5. inane · adjective/ɪˈneɪn/

   lacking sense or meaning foolish

   His inane comments during the meeting only served to frustrate everyone involved.

   Synonyms: foolish, silly, pointless

   Origin: from Latin 'inanis', meaning 'empty, void, pointless'