epigram, soliloquy, malevolence, pundit, derision: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 35. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. epigram · noun/ˈɛpɪɡræm/

   a witty or clever remark or poem often containing a satirical or humorous element

   The poet wrote a clever epigram about love that made everyone laugh.

   Synonyms: inscription, saying, poem

   Origin: From Latin 'epigramma', from Greek 'epigramma', meaning 'to inscribe' or 'something written on a surface'.

2. soliloquy · noun/səˈlɪləkwi/

   the act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when by oneself or regardless of any hearers

   In the play, the main character's soliloquy reveals his deepest feelings and fears.

   Synonyms: monologue, speech, discourse

   Origin: from Latin 'soliloquium', from 'solus' meaning 'alone' and 'loqui' meaning 'to speak'

3. malevolence · noun/məˈlɛv.ə.ləns/

   the intention or desire to do evil or harm

   The villain's malevolence was clear as he plotted to hurt the hero.

   Synonyms: malice, wickedness, hostility

   Origin: From Latin 'malevolentia', meaning 'ill will' or 'malice'

4. pundit · noun/ˈpʌndɪt/

   a person who offers opinions or commentary on a particular subject

   The news pundit shared her thoughts on the election results during the program.

   Synonyms: expert, commentator, authority

   Origin: From Hindi 'pandit', meaning 'learned man' or 'scholar'

5. derision · noun/dɪˈrɪʒ.ən/

   contemptuous ridicule or mockery

   The teacher's explanation was met with derision from the students.

   Synonyms: mockery, ridicule, scorn

   Origin: from the Latin 'derisio', meaning 'mockery', which comes from 'deridere', meaning 'to laugh at'.