somatic, vapid, banal, fetid, intemperate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 39. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. somatic · adjective/səˈmæt̬.ɪk/

   relating to the body, especially as distinct from the mind

   The therapist focused on somatic techniques to help patients reconnect with their bodies.

   Synonyms: physical, bodily, corporeal

   Origin: from the Greek word 'sōmatikos', meaning 'of the body'

2. vapid · adjective/ˈvæpɪd/

   lacking flavor, liveliness, or interest

   The soup tasted vapid and needed more spices to make it better.

   Synonyms: insipid, bland, uninteresting

   Origin: Originated from the Latin word 'vapidus', meaning 'tasteless' or 'insipid'.

3. banal · adjective/bəˈnæl/

   lacking originality or freshness; ordinary and uninteresting

   The movie was so banal that I fell asleep halfway through.

   Synonyms: trite, dull, common

   Origin: from French 'banal', meaning 'belonging to a village (common to all)'

4. fetid · adjective/ˈfɛtɪd/

   having a strong and unpleasant smell

   The fetid smell from the garbage made everyone cover their noses.

   Synonyms: foul, stinky, rancid

   Origin: from Latin 'fetidus', meaning 'stinking'

5. intemperate · adjective/ɪnˈtɛmpərɪt/

   lacking moderation or restraint

   His intemperate behavior at the party made everyone feel uncomfortable.

   Synonyms: excessive, extreme, unrestrained

   Origin: from Latin 'intemperatus', meaning 'immoderate' or 'excessive'