Word Ultra — Set 170

Set 170 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: serendipity, isostasy, enstrophe, lamprophony, iridescence. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. serendipity · noun/ˌsɛr.ənˈdɪp.ɪ.ti/

   the occurrence of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way

   Finding the perfect job just when I needed it was a moment of serendipity that changed my life for the better.

   Synonyms: fluke, coincidence, chance

   Origin: The word 'serendipity' was coined by Horace Walpole in 1754, derived from 'The Three Princes of Serendip', a Persian fairy tale about three princes who made discoveries by accidents and sagacity.

2. isostasy · noun/ˌaɪsəˈstæsi/

   the equilibrium between continental and oceanic crust where they float on the mantle

   The concept of isostasy explains how mountains maintain their height through the balance of gravitational forces acting on the continental crust.

   Synonyms: equilibrium, balance, stability

   Origin: derived from the Greek words 'ison' meaning 'equal' and 'stasis' meaning 'standing' or 'stability'

3. enstrophe · noun/ˈɛnstrəfi/

   the state of being turned inside out or reversed

   The artist's latest sculpture depicts an enstrophe of traditional forms, showcasing the beauty of inversion in art.

   Synonyms: inversion,reversal,upheaval

   Origin: from Greek 'enstrophē', meaning 'a turning round'.

4. lamprophony · noun/ˌlæm.prəˈfɑː.ni/

   the quality of clarity and brilliance in speaking or voice

   Her lamprophony captivated the audience, allowing her message to resonate with clarity and passion.

   Synonyms: clearness, eloquence, lucidity

   Origin: Derived from the Greek words 'lampro-' meaning 'bright' and 'phony' meaning 'voice' or 'sound'.

5. iridescence · noun/ˌɪrɪˈdɛsəns/

   a phenomenon in which colors appear to change when viewed from different angles

   The iridescence of the soap bubble fascinated the children as it shifted colors in the sunlight.

   Synonyms: luster, sheen, shimmer

   Origin: from Latin 'iris', meaning 'rainbow', combined with the suffix '-escence', indicating a process or state