TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 90

Set 90 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: predilection, disdain, hubris, disrepute, melancholy. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. predilection · noun/ˌprɛdɪˈlɛkʃən/

   a preference or liking for something

   Her predilection for classical music often influences her choice of study materials.

   Synonyms: preference, taste, inclination

   Origin: The word 'predilection' comes from the Latin 'praedilectio', from 'prae-' meaning 'before' and 'diligere' meaning 'to discern, to love'.

2. disdain · noun/dɪsˈdeɪn/

   the feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one's consideration or respect

   Her disdain for those who arrived late to the meeting was evident in her dismissive tone.

   Synonyms: contempt, scorn, disgust

   Origin: from Old French 'desdain', from Latin 'dēspīcere' meaning 'to look down upon'

3. hubris · noun/ˈhjuː.brɪs/

   excessive pride or self-confidence often leading to downfall

   His hubris led him to underestimate his competitors, resulting in a surprising defeat.

   Synonyms: arrogance, pride, conceit

   Origin: From ancient Greek 'hubris', meaning 'excessive pride or self-confidence'

4. disrepute · noun/ˌdɪs.rɪˈpjuːt/

   the state of being held in low regard or having a bad reputation

   After the scandal, the politician was left in a state of disrepute, making it nearly impossible for him to regain public trust.

   Synonyms: bad reputation, disgrace, notoriety

   Origin: from Middle French 'disrepute', from Latin 'disreputare', meaning 'to bring into disrepute'

5. melancholy · noun/ˈmɛl.ən.kɑː.li/

   a deep, persistent sadness or gloom often without a clear cause

   After the long rainy season, a deep melancholy settled over the town, leaving its residents in a somber mood.

   Synonyms: sorrow, gloom, sadness

   Origin: from the Greek word 'melankholía', composed of 'melas' (black) and 'khole' (bile), relating to the ancient belief that an excess of black bile caused this state.