mellifluous, canescent, pectoral, caliginous, pecteniform: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 277. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. mellifluous · adjective/məˈlɪf.lu.əs/

   having a smooth, flowing sound that is sweet and pleasant to hear

   Her mellifluous voice captivated everyone in the audience, making even the toughest critics nod in appreciation.

   Synonyms: harmonious, melodious, dulcet

   Origin: from Latin 'mellifluus', from 'mel' meaning 'honey' and 'fluere' meaning 'to flow'

2. canescent · adjective/kəˈnɛs.ənt/

   covered with white or gray hairs

   The canescent leaves of the plant shimmered in the sunlight, giving it a unique, silvery appearance.

   Synonyms: grizzled, gray, hoary

   Origin: from Latin 'canescentem', present participle of 'canescere', meaning 'to become white or gray'.

3. pectoral · adjective/ˈpɛk.tɚ.əl/

   relating to the chest or breast area

   He focused on developing his pectoral muscles through a rigorous weightlifting routine.

   Synonyms: thoracic, chest, breast

   Origin: Late Middle English: from Latin 'pectoralis', from 'pectus', meaning 'chest'.

4. caliginous · adjective/kəˈlɪdʒɪnəs/

   dark or dim; characterized by gloom

   As the sun set behind the mountains, the forest became increasingly caliginous, shrouding the trees in a blanket of shadow.

   Synonyms: dim, dark, gloomy

   Origin: from Latin 'caliginosus', meaning 'misty or dark', derived from 'caligo', meaning 'mist, fog'.

5. pecteniform · adjective/ˈpɛktənəˌfɔrm/

   resembling or shaped like a comb

   The pecteniform structure of the coral led to its unique ability to attract a variety of marine life.

   Synonyms: comblike, serrated, ridged

   Origin: Derived from Latin 'pecten', meaning 'comb', combined with the suffix '-form' meaning 'shaped like'.