mendacious, whimsical, tumultuous, obnoxious, intrepid: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 1. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. mendacious · adjective/mɛnˈdeɪʃəs/

   not telling the truth; habitually lying

   The mendacious boy often made up stories to impress his friends.

   Synonyms: deceitful, dishonest, untruthful

   Origin: from Latin 'mendax', meaning 'lying' or 'false'

2. whimsical · adjective/ˈwɪm.zɪ.kəl/

   playfully quaint or fanciful, especially in an appealing and amusing way

   The whimsical decorations at the party made everyone smile and feel happy.

   Synonyms: fanciful, playful, quirky

   Origin: The word 'whimsical' comes from the word 'whimsy', which dates back to the late 17th century and is thought to be derived from the word 'whim', meaning a sudden desire or change of mind.

3. tumultuous · adjective/tjuˈmʌltʃuəs/

   characterized by turmoil, upheaval, or disorder

   The tumultuous changes in the weather made it hard for everyone to plan their day.

   Synonyms: chaotic, disorderly, turbulent

   Origin: from Latin 'tumultuosus', from 'tumultus' meaning 'tumult, uproar'

4. obnoxious · adjective/əbˈnɑk.ʃəs/

   extremely unpleasant or offensive

   The obnoxious behavior of the boy made everyone feel uncomfortable at the party.

   Synonyms: disagreeable, unpleasant, offensive

   Origin: from Latin 'obnoxius', meaning 'exposed to harm' or 'offensive'

5. intrepid · adjective/ɪnˈtrɛp.ɪd/

   resolutely fearless and daring

   The intrepid explorer climbed the highest mountain in the world without fear.

   Synonyms: fearless, brave, bold

   Origin: from Latin 'intrepidus', meaning 'unshaken, fearless'