Word Ultra — Set 101

Set 101 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: delphic, cankerous, seraphic, endogenous, maledicent. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. delphic · adjective/ˈdɛl.fɪk/

   of or relating to the oracle at delphi or resembling its ambiguous prophecies

   The politician's delphic remarks left the audience confused about his true intentions.

   Synonyms: enigmatic, ambiguous, cryptic

   Origin: The word 'delphic' comes from 'Delphi', the ancient Greek site where the Oracle of Delphi was located, combined with the suffix '-ic' indicating relating to.

2. cankerous · adjective/ˈkæŋkərəs/

   having a malignant or corrupting influence

   The cankerous influence of greed spread through the organization, corrupting its core values.

   Synonyms: corrupting, malignant, poisonous

   Origin: Late Middle English from Old French 'cancereux', from 'cancer' meaning 'cancer' or 'sore'.

3. seraphic · adjective/səˈræfɪk/

   characteristic of or resembling a seraph; angelic or celestial

   Her seraphic smile lit up the entire room, embodying pure joy and tranquility.

   Synonyms: angelic, heavenly, blissful

   Origin: The word 'seraphic' originates from the Late Latin 'seraphicus', which comes from the Greek 'seraphim', a term referring to a type of celestial or heavenly being.

4. endogenous · adjective/ɪnˈdɑː.dʒə.nəs/

   produced or originating from within an organism, system, or process

   The study focused on the endogenous factors that influence cell growth and development.

   Synonyms: internal, intrinsic, inherent

   Origin: from the Greek word 'endon' meaning 'within' and the suffix '-genous' which means 'producing' or 'originating'

5. maledicent · adjective/mælˈɛdɪsənt/

   having a tendency to speak badly of others or to slander

   Her maledicent remarks about her colleagues quickly put her in a bad light at the office.

   Synonyms: slanderous, defamatory, calumnious

   Origin: The word 'maledicent' originates from the Latin 'maledicentem', which is the present participle of 'maledicere', meaning 'to speak ill of'.