ecphonesis, prophylaxis, divarication, lien, xylopolist: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 226. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ecphonesis · noun/ɛkˈfoʊ.nə.sɪs/

   an exclamatory phrase or expression of emotion

   The poet's use of ecphonesis added a dramatic flair to the reading, emphasizing the deep emotions felt in the moment.

   Synonyms: exclamation, exclamatory phrase, cry

   Origin: from Greek 'ekphonēsis', meaning 'a calling out'.

2. prophylaxis · noun/ˌprɔfɪˈlæksɪs/

   measures taken to prevent disease or illness

   Vaccination is an essential method of prophylaxis against infectious diseases.

   Synonyms: prevention, safeguard, protection

   Origin: From Greek 'prophylaktikos', meaning 'preventive', from 'pro-' meaning 'before' and 'phulaktikos' meaning 'to guard'.

3. divarication · noun/ˌdaɪvəˈreɪkɪʃən/

   the act or process of diverging or separating

   The divarication of different theories in the field of psychology has led to a richer understanding of human behavior.

   Synonyms: divergence, separation, branching

   Origin: from Latin 'divaricatio', which means 'a branching out' or 'divergence'

4. lien · noun/liːən/

   a legal claim or right against assets that are typically used as collateral to satisfy a debt

   The bank placed a lien on the property until the mortgage was fully paid off.

   Synonyms: claim, charge, encumbrance

   Origin: Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French 'liene', which comes from the Latin 'ligare' meaning 'to bind'.

5. xylopolist · noun/ˈzaɪləpəˌlɪst/

   a person who buys and sells wood

   The xylopolist conducted his business with integrity, ensuring that all the wood he sold was sustainably sourced.

   Synonyms: wood dealer, timber merchant, lumber trader

   Origin: The word 'xylopolist' is derived from the Greek word 'xylon' meaning 'wood' and 'polist' from the Greek 'polistes' meaning 'seller' or 'dealer'.