febrile, jocund, baroque, laconic, autochthonous: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 66. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. febrile · adjective/ˈfɛb.rəl/

   having or showing the symptoms of a fever

   The doctor noted the patient's febrile condition, which was accompanied by chills and a rapid heartbeat.

   Synonyms: feverish, hot, pyretic

   Origin: from Latin 'febrilis', from 'febris' meaning 'fever'

2. jocund · adjective/ˈdʒɑː.kənd/

   cheerful and lighthearted

   The jocund laughter of children filled the air, brightening the otherwise dull afternoon.

   Synonyms: cheerful, merry, jovial

   Origin: from Latin 'jocundus', meaning 'joyful, merry'

3. baroque · adjective/bəˈroʊk/

   a style of art and architecture characterized by ornate detail and dramatic expressions

   The cathedral was adorned with baroque sculptures and intricate details that captivated visitors.

   Synonyms: ornate, elaborate, extravagant

   Origin: from Portuguese 'barroco', meaning 'irregular pearl', derives from 'barroco', possibly influenced by the Latin 'barroccus'

4. laconic · adjective/ləˈkɑnɪk/

   using few words to express much meaning

   Her laconic response to the complicated question left everyone in the room wondering about her true feelings.

   Synonyms: concise, succinct, terse

   Origin: from Latin 'laconicus', from Greek 'lakōnikos', referring to the Laconians, whose brief style of speech was noted.

5. autochthonous · adjective/ɔˈtɔkθənəs/

   indigenous or native to a particular place

   The researchers conducted a study to identify the autochthonous species of plants that thrive in the region's unique ecosystem.

   Synonyms: indigenous, native, endemic

   Origin: From Greek 'autochthon', meaning 'sprung from the land itself', from 'auto-' (self) + 'chthon' (earth).