Word Ultra — Set 163

Set 163 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: feretory, odynophagia, polyhistor, arriviste, detumescence. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. feretory · noun/ˈfɛrəˌtɔri/

   a place or receptacle for containing holy relics

   The ancient cathedral was home to a beautifully crafted feretory, which housed the sacred relics of the saints.

   Synonyms: shrine,reliquary,altar

   Origin: from Latin 'feretorium', a place for carrying or supporting

2. odynophagia · noun/ˌoʊ.dɪ.nəˈfeɪ.dʒi.ə/

   painful swallowing

   After the throat infection, she experienced significant odynophagia that made it difficult to eat anything.

   Synonyms: dysphagia, throat pain, pharyngeal pain

   Origin: from Greek 'odyne' meaning 'pain' and 'phagein' meaning 'to eat or swallow'

3. polyhistor · noun/ˈpɑːliˌhɪstər/

   a person with extensive knowledge in a variety of subjects

   The renowned polyhistor amazed the audience with his ability to discuss topics ranging from ancient philosophy to modern science.

   Synonyms: polymath, encyclopedist, sage

   Origin: from Greek 'polyhistor', meaning 'having much learning', from 'poly-' meaning 'many' and 'histor' meaning 'one who knows'

4. arriviste · noun/ˌɑːrɪˈviːst/

   a person who has recently acquired wealth or status but lacks the associated social skills or qualifications

   As an arriviste, he often struggled to fit in with the more established members of high society.

   Synonyms: upstart, nouveau riche, social climber

   Origin: French, from 'arriver' meaning 'to arrive'

5. detumescence · noun/dɪˈtuː.mɛs.əns/

   the process of reduction of swelling or engorgement

   After the injury, the doctor advised that detumescence would typically occur within a few days as the swelling began to subside.

   Synonyms: reduction, subsidence, alleviation

   Origin: derived from the Latin word 'detumescere', which means 'to diminish in swelling'