neurospora, diablerie, accismus, inanition, xanthippe: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 73. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. neurospora · noun/ˈnʊroʊspɔːrə/

   a genus of fungi that includes species used in research and as a model organism in genetics

   Researchers often utilize Neurospora as a model organism to study genetic mutations and their effects on phenotypic expression.

   Synonyms: fungus, mold, yeast

   Origin: From New Latin, from 'neuro-' meaning 'nerve' and Greek 'spora' meaning 'seed' or 'sowing', referring to the reproductive structures of fungi.

2. diablerie · noun/ˌdaɪəˈblɪri/

   the practice of witchcraft or sorcery especially involving the summoning of demons

   The villagers whispered in fear about the old woman who practiced diablerie, believing she could summon dark spirits at will.

   Synonyms: sorcery, witchcraft, necromancy

   Origin: from French 'diablerie', derived from 'diable' meaning 'devil', which comes from Latin 'diabolus'

3. accismus · noun/əˈsɪs.məs/

   a rhetorical device in which a person feigns disinterest in something while actually desiring it

   His act of accismus was apparent when he insisted he didn't want dessert, all the while eyeing the chocolate cake with longing.

   Synonyms: disguise, pretense, affectation

   Origin: The term 'accismus' originates from the Greek word 'ἀκίνησις' (akínēsis), meaning 'feigned disinterest,' and was adopted into Latin and later English.

4. inanition · noun/ˌɪn.əˈnɪʃ.ən/

   a state of physical weakness or exhaustion caused by lack of food or water

   After several days without adequate nutrition, the hikers succumbed to inanition, struggling to find the strength to continue their journey.

   Synonyms: malnutrition, starvation, hunger

   Origin: Late Latin 'inanitio', from 'inanis' meaning 'empty'

5. xanthippe · noun/zænˈθɪpi/

   a nagging, scolding, or ill-tempered woman

   After another long day filled with complaints, he felt like he was living with a xanthippe who was never satisfied.

   Synonyms: termagant, shrew, virago

   Origin: The term 'xanthippe' originates from the name of the wife of the philosopher Socrates, who was reputed to be a scolding and nagging woman. The name 'Xanthippe' comes from the Ancient Greek 'Xanthippos', where 'xanthos' means 'yellow' and 'hippos' means 'horse'.