petroleous, bradytelic, periglacial, felicific, tenebrous: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 273. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. petroleous · adjective/ˈpɛtrəˌloʊəs/

   containing petroleum or relating to petroleum extraction

   The petroleous substance seeped into the ground, creating a hazardous environment for local wildlife.

   Synonyms: oil, fossil, hydrocarbon

   Origin: Formed from 'petrol' and the adjective suffix '-eous'.

2. bradytelic · adjective/ˌbræd.ɪˈtɛ.lɪk/

   having a slow rate of evolutionary change

   Some species of tortoises are considered bradytelic, exhibiting only minor morphological changes over millions of years.

   Synonyms: slow-evolving, gradual, unhurried

   Origin: from Greek 'bradus' meaning slow and 'telos' meaning end or goal

3. periglacial · adjective/ˌpɛrɪˈɡleɪʃəl/

   relating to regions adjacent to or partially affected by glaciers

   The scientists conducted research on the periglacial landscape to understand the effects of climate change on the environment.

   Synonyms: glacial, subglacial, icy

   Origin: from the prefix 'peri-' meaning 'around' and 'glacial' relating to glaciers

4. felicific · adjective/fəˈlɪsɪfɪk/

   relating to or producing happiness or pleasure

   The felicific effects of the community event were evident as laughter and joy filled the air.

   Synonyms: happy, pleasurable, joyous

   Origin: Originating from the Latin word 'felicificus', which combines 'felix' (happy) and 'facere' (to make).

5. tenebrous · adjective/ˈtɛn.ə.brəs/

   dark, shadowy or obscure

   The tenebrous depths of the forest concealed many secrets, making it a daunting place for the unprepared traveler.

   Synonyms: gloomy, murky, shadowy

   Origin: derived from the Latin word 'tenebrosus', meaning 'dark' or 'shadowy', which is related to 'tenebrae', meaning 'shadows' or 'darkness'.