opprobrium, penumbra, osteopathy, myxomatosis, sussurus: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 202. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. opprobrium · noun/əˈproʊ.bri.əm/

   public disgrace or shame

   The scandal led to widespread opprobrium from the public, damaging the politician's reputation irreparably.

   Synonyms: disgrace, shame, infamy

   Origin: From Latin 'opprobrium', meaning 'disgrace' or 'reproach'.

2. penumbra · noun/pəˈnʌm.brə/

   the partially shaded outer region of the shadow cast by an opaque object

   During the solar eclipse, the penumbra created a stunning visual effect as the sun's light was partially obscured by the moon.

   Synonyms: shade, shadow, twilight

   Origin: Late Latin 'penumbra', from 'paene-' meaning 'almost' and 'umbra' meaning 'shadow'

3. osteopathy · noun/ˌɑːstiˈɑpəθi/

   a system of alternative medicine based on the treatment of a disease through manipulation of the bones, tissues, and muscles

   After months of chronic pain, she decided to try osteopathy as a holistic approach to healing her body.

   Synonyms: chiropractic, osteopathic medicine, manual therapy

   Origin: The word 'osteopathy' comes from the Greek 'osteon' meaning 'bone' and 'pathos' meaning 'suffering' or 'disease'. It was coined in the late 19th century by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still.

4. myxomatosis · noun/ˌmɪksəˌmeɪtəˈsoʊsɪs/

   a viral disease affecting rabbits characterized by swelling and skin lesions

   Many pet owners remain concerned about the outbreak of myxomatosis in local rabbit populations, as it can lead to severe suffering and high mortality rates.

   Synonyms: n/a

   Origin: From New Latin, combining 'myxo-' meaning mucus or slimy, and '-matosis' meaning condition or disease.

5. sussurus · noun/ˈsʌsərəs/

   a soft murmuring or rustling sound

   As the leaves danced in the breeze, a soft sussurus filled the air, creating a peaceful atmosphere in the garden.

   Synonyms: murmur, rustle, whisper

   Origin: Latin 'susurrus' meaning 'a whisper or murmur'