epaulette, sibyl, veneration, volubility, trinket: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 22. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. epaulette · noun/ˌɛpəˈlɛt/

   a decorative shoulder piece or insignia on a uniform

   The general wore a blue uniform with golden epaulettes that shone in the sunlight.

   Synonyms: shoulder piece, insignia

   Origin: French 'épaulette', from 'épaule' meaning 'shoulder'

2. sibyl · noun/ˈsɪb.əl/

   a woman in ancient times regarded as an oracle or prophet

   The ancient sibyl told the people about the future of their city.

   Synonyms: oracle, prophetess, seer

   Origin: from Latin 'sybilla', from Greek 'sibylla', meaning 'prophetess'

3. veneration · noun/ˌvɛnəˈreɪʃən/

   great respect or reverence for someone or something

   The veneration for the old teacher was clear when everyone stood up to greet him.

   Synonyms: respect, honor, admiration

   Origin: from Latin 'veneratio', meaning 'to worship or admire greatly'

4. volubility · noun/ˌvɑːl.jəˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/

   the quality of talking fluently, readily, or incessantly

   Her volubility made her the center of attention at the party, as she could easily talk to anyone about anything.

   Synonyms: fluency, eloquence, verbosity

   Origin: from Latin 'volubilitas', from 'volubilis' meaning 'rolling, flowing', from 'volvĕre' meaning 'to roll'

5. trinket · noun/ˈtrɪŋ.kɪt/

   a small ornament or item of jewelry that is of little value

   She wore a beautiful trinket around her neck that sparkled in the light.

   Synonyms: bauble, piece, ornament

   Origin: Middle English 'trinket', diminutive of 'trink', likely of imitative origin