phalanstery, pharyngotomy, irredentism, asceticism, brevet: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 134. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. phalanstery · noun/ˈfeɪ.lən.stɚ.i/

   a communal living arrangement designed to promote cooperation and mutual support

   The cooperative community embraced the idea of a phalanstery, believing it would foster deeper connections among its members.

   Synonyms: commune, collective, cooperative

   Origin: from Greek 'phalanx' meaning 'a formation of troops', combined with the suffix '-ery' indicating a place or condition

2. pharyngotomy · noun/fəˌrɪŋˈɡɑtəmi/

   surgical incision into the pharynx

   The surgeon performed a pharyngotomy to access the underlying tissues after the trauma.

   Synonyms: pharyngeal incision, throat incision, pharyngectomy

   Origin: derived from the Greek words 'pharynx' meaning throat and 'tome' meaning incision or cutting

3. irredentism · noun/ˌɪrəˈdɛntɪzəm/

   a political principle or policy advocating the recovery of territories historically or ethnically related to a particular nation or people

   The rise of irredentism in the region has escalated tensions between neighboring countries, as many citizens feel a deep-seated connection to the disputed territories.

   Synonyms: revanchism, reclamation

   Origin: from Italian 'irredentismo', from 'irredento' meaning 'unredeemed' (from Latin 'irredemptus') + '-ismo' (suffix for action or doctrine)

4. asceticism · noun/əˈsɛtɪsɪz(ə)m/

   severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence for religious or spiritual goals

   His commitment to asceticism allowed him to live a life free from material distractions, focusing solely on his spiritual growth.

   Synonyms: ascetic state, austere lifestyle, self-denial

   Origin: from Greek 'asketikos', meaning 'of or for athletes', derived from 'asketēs', meaning 'one who exerts himself, a practitioner'.

5. brevet · noun/ˈbrɛvɪt/

   a written document or official certificate granting a privilege or rank

   After completing the rigorous training program, she received her brevet as recognition of her achievements in the field.

   Synonyms: certificate, credential, diploma

   Origin: From French 'brevet', meaning 'a document' or 'certificate', originating from the Latin 'breviatum', meaning 'something brief'.