Word Ultra — Set 171

Set 171 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: crepuscular, quixotic, serried, corybantic, hieratic. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. crepuscular · adjective/krəˈpʌskjələr/

   active during twilight or dusk

   Many crepuscular animals, such as deer and rabbits, are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk.

   Synonyms: twilight, dim, dusky

   Origin: from Latin 'crepusculum' meaning 'twilight'

2. quixotic · adjective/kwɪkˈsɑtɪk/

   exceedingly idealistic and unrealistic in pursuit of noble goals

   His quixotic dreams of changing the world often left him disappointed in reality.

   Synonyms: idealistic, fanciful, impractical

   Origin: The word 'quixotic' is derived from the name of the character Don Quixote, created by the Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes in his novel 'Don Quixote', published in the early 17th century. The term reflects the romantic and unrealistic pursuits of the character.

3. serried · adjective/ˈsɛrɪd/

   lined up in rows or ranks

   The soldiers stood in serried ranks, ready for inspection by their commanding officer.

   Synonyms: aligned, ordered, arranged

   Origin: Middle French 'serré', which means 'close-set' or 'tight', from the verb 'serrer', meaning 'to tighten or encircle'.

4. corybantic · adjective/kɔːrɪˈbæntɪk/

   characterized by wild, frenzied, or noisy behavior

   The corybantic celebration in the city square attracted crowds from all around as dancers twirled and drums thundered.

   Synonyms: frantic, frenetic, wild

   Origin: derived from 'Corybantes', the name of the ecstatic dancers in ancient Greek rituals dedicated to the goddess Cybele, combined with the suffix '-ic'.

5. hieratic · adjective/ˌhaɪəˈrætɪk/

   a form of cursive writing used in ancient Egypt

   The ancient manuscripts were inscribed in hieratic script, showcasing the evolution of Egyptian writing techniques.

   Synonyms: cursive, script, writing

   Origin: The word 'hieratic' originates from the Greek 'hieratikos,' meaning 'sacred,' derived from 'hieros,' meaning 'sacred or holy.'