fractious, sardonic, servile, effusive, furtive: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 28. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. fractious · adjective/ˈfræk.ʃəs/

   irritable and quarrelsome

   The fractious child would not stop arguing with his friends during playtime.

   Synonyms: irritable, quarrelsome, grouchy

   Origin: Late 15th century, from Middle French 'fractiouse' or from Latin 'fractiosus', meaning 'easily broken' or 'irritable'.

2. sardonic · adjective/sɑrˈdɑnɪk/

   grimly mocking or cynical

   Her sardonic smile showed that she didn't really believe what he was saying.

   Synonyms: mocking, scornful, cynical

   Origin: The word 'sardonic' originates from the French 'sardonique', which comes from the Latin 'sardonicus', itself derived from 'Sardonia', an island where a plant was said to cause a grimace in those who ate it.

3. servile · adjective/ˈsɜrvaɪl/

   showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others

   The servile worker always smiled and did whatever his boss asked him to do.

   Synonyms: submissive, obedient, servant-like

   Origin: from Latin 'servilis', which means 'of a slave', from 'servus', meaning 'slave'

4. effusive · adjective/ɪˈfjusɪv/

   expressing feelings of gratitude, pleasure, or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner

   She was effusive in her thanks after receiving the gift.

   Synonyms: overflowing, enthusiastic, heartfelt

   Origin: from Latin 'effusivus', meaning 'pouring out'

5. furtive · adjective/ˈfɝː.tɪv/

   attempting to avoid notice or attention typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble

   He cast a furtive glance around the room to see if anyone was watching him.

   Synonyms: secretive, stealthy, sly

   Origin: The word 'furtive' originates from the Latin 'furtivus', meaning 'thievish', which comes from 'fur', meaning 'thief'.