malleable, impugn, preeminent, prescient, exhaustive: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 43. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. malleable · adjective/ˈmæl.i.ə.bəl/

   capable of being shaped or bent without breaking

   The metal is very malleable, so it can be shaped into different tools easily.

   Synonyms: flexible, pliable, adaptable

   Origin: from Latin 'malleabilis', from 'malleare' meaning 'to hammer'

2. impugn · verb/ɪmˈpjun/

   to challenge or cast doubt on the validity or honesty of something

   Many people started to impugn the honesty of the politician after he changed his story.

   Synonyms: question, challenge, dispute

   Origin: from Latin 'impugnare', meaning 'to fight against'

3. preeminent · adjective/priˈɛmɪnənt/

   superior to all others; outstanding

   Albert Einstein is a preeminent scientist known for his work on the theory of relativity.

   Synonyms: superior, outstanding, dominant

   Origin: from Latin 'praeeminens', which means 'standing out or projecting above'

4. prescient · adjective/ˈprɛʃənt/

   having or showing knowledge of events before they take place

   The prescient scientist predicted the earthquake before it happened.

   Synonyms: foreseeing, prophetic, clairvoyant

   Origin: from Latin 'praescientem', meaning 'knowing beforehand'

5. exhaustive · adjective/ɪɡˈzɔstɪv/

   thorough and complete in covering all aspects or details

   The teacher gave an exhaustive review of all the topics we need to study for the exam.

   Synonyms: comprehensive, thorough, complete

   Origin: From Latin 'exhaustus', meaning 'drained' or 'consumed' (past participle of 'exhaurire')