sycophantic, peritectic, hypnagogic, ptarmic, aniconic: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 60. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. sycophantic · adjective/ˌsɪkəˈfæntɪk/

   behaving in an excessively flattering manner to gain favor

   His sycophantic behavior towards the new manager was clearly aimed at securing a promotion.

   Synonyms: obsequious, ingratiating, flattering

   Origin: from Greek 'sykophantēs' meaning 'informer, accuser,' originally 'one who shows the fig (a sign of disgrace).'

2. peritectic · adjective/ˌpɛrɪˈtɛktɪk/

   a type of equilibrium reaction in which a solid phase transforms into a liquid and another solid phase upon heating

   The peritectic reaction in the aluminum-copper system illustrates how a solid can transform into a liquid and a different solid phase when heated.

   Synonyms: eutectic, melting

   Origin: from the prefix 'peri-' meaning 'around' and the Greek word 'tektos' meaning 'melted'

3. hypnagogic · adjective/ˌhɪpnəˈɡɑdʒɪk/

   of or relating to the state immediately before falling asleep

   As I lay in bed, I experienced a series of vivid hypnagogic hallucinations that blurred the line between reality and dreams.

   Synonyms: hypnopedic, pre-sleep

   Origin: From the Greek 'hypnos' meaning 'sleep' and 'agōgos' meaning 'leading'.

4. ptarmic · adjective/ˈtɑr.mɪk/

   relating to or denoting a type of game bird found in northern regions, particularly the genus lagopus

   The ptarmic habitats in the northern tundra provide a suitable environment for the birds to thrive during the harsh winters.

   Synonyms: lagopoid, grouse

   Origin: The word 'ptarmic' is derived from the genus name 'Lagopus', which comes from the Greek words 'lagos' meaning 'hare' and 'pous' meaning 'foot', a reference to the bird's foot structure.

5. aniconic · adjective/ˌæn.ɪˈkɑːn.ɪk/

   not depicting or representing a figure or form

   The artist took an aniconic approach in the painting, focusing on abstract shapes and colors rather than figurative representations.

   Synonyms: nonfigurative, abstract, symbolical

   Origin: The word 'aniconic' originates from the prefix 'a-' meaning 'not' and 'iconic', derived from 'icon', which comes from the Greek 'eikon', meaning 'image' or 'likeness'.