fecund, kaolinitic, splenetic, lethargic, dilatory: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 185. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. fecund · adjective/ˈfɛk.ənd/

   capable of producing offspring or vegetation; fertile

   The fecund soil in the valley allowed farmers to grow a variety of crops throughout the year.

   Synonyms: fertile, fruitful, productive

   Origin: from Latin 'fecundus', meaning 'fruitful, fertile'

2. kaolinitic · adjective/ˌkeɪəˈlɪnɪtɪk/

   relating to or containing kaolinite, a white clay mineral used in ceramics and paper

   The kaolinitic clay deposits in the region are highly sought after for their use in high-quality ceramics.

   Synonyms: kaolinic, clayey, earthen

   Origin: The word 'kaolinitic' is derived from 'kaolinite', which comes from 'kaolin', a term originating from the Chinese word 'kao-ling', meaning 'high ridge'.

3. splenetic · adjective/spləˈnɛtɪk/

   bad-tempered or spiteful

   The splenetic remarks he made during the meeting left everyone feeling uncomfortable and on edge.

   Synonyms: irritable, cantankerous, bilious

   Origin: The word 'splenetic' originates from the Latin 'spleneticus', which relates to the spleen. Historically, the spleen was thought to be the seat of emotion, particularly of melancholy and bad temper.

4. lethargic · adjective/lɛˈθɑrdʒɪk/

   feeling sluggish or lacking energy

   After staying up late to finish his project, John felt lethargic and struggled to concentrate in class.

   Synonyms: sluggish, apathetic, inactive

   Origin: from the Greek 'lethargikos', from 'lethargos' meaning 'forgetful', derived from 'lethe' meaning 'forgetfulness'

5. dilatory · adjective/ˈdɪləˌtɔri/

   tending to delay or procrastinate

   The team's dilatory approach to completing the project meant they missed the crucial deadline.

   Synonyms: tardy, laggard, procrastinatory

   Origin: from Latin 'dilatorius', meaning 'tending to delay', from 'dilator' which means 'one who delays'