neogenesis, incunabulum, blandishment, emanation, phalacrosis: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 298. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. neogenesis · noun/ˌniəˈdʒɛnəsɪs/

   the process of new formation or generation of tissues or organs

   Researchers are exploring the mechanisms of neogenesis in stem cells to understand how new tissues can be generated.

   Synonyms: regeneration, formation, development

   Origin: from the Greek 'neo' meaning 'new' and 'genesis' meaning 'origin' or 'creation'

2. incunabulum · noun/ˌɪn.kjuˈnæb.jə.ləm/

   a book printed before 1501

   The library's collection includes several rare incunabula that date back to the 15th century.

   Synonyms: early printed book, pre-1501 book, bibliographical artifact

   Origin: from Latin 'incunabulum', meaning 'swaddling cloth' or ' cradle', referring to books in their infancy, or early printed works

3. blandishment · noun/ˈblændɪʃmənt/

   flattering speech or actions meant to persuade

   Despite the manager's blandishments, the employees were not convinced to work overtime without additional pay.

   Synonyms: flattery, coaxing, cajolery

   Origin: From Middle French 'blandissement', from Latin 'blandimenta', meaning 'flattering' or 'soothing', from 'blandiri' meaning 'to smooth, to flatter'.

4. emanation · noun/ˌɛmɪˈneɪʃən/

   the act of flowing out or coming forth

   The emanation of light from the sun is essential for life on Earth.

   Synonyms: emission, outflow, discharge

   Origin: Latin emanatio, from emanare meaning 'to flow out'

5. phalacrosis · noun/ˌfæl.əˈkroʊ.sɪs/

   the loss of hair from the scalp or body

   Many people experience phalacrosis as they age, leading to visible thinning of hair on the scalp.

   Synonyms: alopecia, hair loss, baldness

   Origin: from the Greek word 'phalakros', meaning 'bald'