Proficient Plus — Set 36

Set 36 of Proficient Plus covers 5 words: soporific, diurnal, recumbent, normative, circumspect. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. soporific · adjective/ˌsɑːpəˈrɪfɪk/

   tending to induce drowsiness or sleep

   The warm milk had a soporific effect, helping her fall asleep quickly.

   Synonyms: sleepy, drowsy, sedative

   Origin: From Latin 'sopor' meaning 'deep sleep' and '-ific' meaning 'making' or 'causing'.

2. diurnal · adjective/ˈdaɪ.jɜrnəl/

   active during the day and inactive at night

   Many birds are diurnal animals that sing and hunt during the day.

   Synonyms: daily, daytime, daylight

   Origin: from Latin 'diurnalis', meaning 'of the day', from 'diurnus' meaning 'daily'

3. recumbent · adjective/rɪˈkʌmbənt/

   lying down or reclining

   The recumbent man was resting comfortably on the couch.

   Synonyms: reclining, lying, supine

   Origin: Latin 'recumbens', from 're-' meaning 'back' and 'cumbere' meaning 'to lie down'

4. normative · adjective/ˈnɔːrmətɪv/

   relating to an evaluative standard or norm

   The teacher explained the normative rules for writing an essay, so everyone knew what was expected.

   Synonyms: standard, typical, usual

   Origin: from Latin 'normativus', meaning 'pertaining to a norm'

5. circumspect · adjective/ˈsɜr.kəm.spekt/

   careful to consider all circumstances and possible consequences

   The lawyer was very circumspect about giving advice to her clients in case they misunderstood it.

   Synonyms: cautious, careful, wary

   Origin: from Latin 'circumspectus', meaning 'looking around'