Advanced Plus — Set 36

Set 36 of Advanced Plus covers 5 words: stark, esoteric, malicious, paramount, tenacious. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. stark · adjective/stɑrk/

   strongly contrasting or obvious in appearance or effect

   The stark contrast between the bright flowers and the dark soil made the garden beautiful.

   Synonyms: sharp, clear, strong

   Origin: from Old English 'styrce', meaning strong or rigid

2. esoteric · adjective/ˌɛsəˈtɛrɪk/

   intended for or understood by only a small number of people, specialized

   The professor gave an esoteric lecture that only a few students understood.

   Synonyms: arcane, obscure, hidden

   Origin: from Greek 'esoterikos', meaning 'belonging to an inner circle'

3. malicious · adjective/məˈlɪʃ.əs/

   characterized by a desire to cause harm or suffering to others

   The malicious rumor spread quickly through the school, hurting many students.

   Synonyms: malevolent, spiteful, wicked

   Origin: from Latin 'malitiosus', from 'malitia' meaning 'malice' or 'badness'

4. paramount · adjective/ˈpɛrəmaʊnt/

   of the greatest importance or significance

   Safety is paramount when we plan a project.

   Synonyms: supreme, chief, main

   Origin: from Middle French 'par amont', meaning 'from above' or 'on high'

5. tenacious · adjective/təˈneɪ.ʃəs/

   holding firm to a purpose or opinion stubbornly

   She is a tenacious student who never gives up on her goals.

   Synonyms: persistent, determined, resolute

   Origin: from Latin 'tenax', meaning 'holding fast'