nuchal, sedulous, sericaceous, pridian, metopic: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 220. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. nuchal · adjective/ˈnuːkəl/

   relating to the nape of the neck

   The doctor examined the patient's nuchal area for any signs of injury following the accident.

   Synonyms: cervical, napeal, nuchal-area

   Origin: from Latin 'nuchalis', from 'nucha' meaning 'the nape of the neck'

2. sedulous · adjective/ˈsɛdʒ.əl.əs/

   diligent and persistent in effort or application

   Her sedulous efforts in studying every topic thoroughly resulted in her top grades this semester.

   Synonyms: diligent, assiduous, industrious

   Origin: Latin 'sedulus,' meaning 'zealous, diligent.'

3. sericaceous · adjective/ˌsɪrɪˈkeɪʃəs/

   resembling silk or having a silky texture

   The sericaceous fibers of the fabric gave the dress an elegant and luxurious appearance.

   Synonyms: silken, silky, smooth

   Origin: Originates from the Latin word 'sericum' meaning 'silk', combined with the suffix '-aceous', which indicates a relation to.

4. pridian · adjective/ˈprɪd.i.ən/

   relating to the day before a specified date

   The pridian celebrations filled the streets with excitement as everyone prepared for the New Year festivities.

   Synonyms: previous, prior, antecedent

   Origin: From Latin 'pridie', meaning 'on the day before'

5. metopic · adjective/məˈtɑːpɪk/

   relating to the metopus or frontal suture of the skull

   The child was diagnosed with metopic craniosynostosis, which indicated a premature fusion of the metopic suture.

   Synonyms: frontal, forehead, cranial

   Origin: The word 'metopic' originates from the Greek word 'metopon', meaning 'forehead', itself derived from 'meta-' meaning 'beyond' and 'ōps', meaning 'face' or 'appearance'.