ephemeral, stagnant, frivolous, petulant, pensive: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 7. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ephemeral · adjective/ɪˈfɛm.ər.əl/

   lasting for a very short time

   The beauty of the sunset is ephemeral, only lasting a few minutes.

   Synonyms: temporary, fleeting, short-lived

   Origin: from Greek 'ephemeros', meaning 'lasting only a day'

2. stagnant · adjective/ˈstæɡ.nənt/

   not flowing or moving and often foul or stale

   The stagnant water in the pond smelled very bad.

   Synonyms: still, motionless, inactive

   Origin: from Latin 'stagnans', present participle of 'stagnare' meaning 'to stagnate'

3. frivolous · adjective/ˈfrɪv.əl.əs/

   lacking in seriousness or value

   She spent her money on frivolous items that she didn't need.

   Synonyms: trivial, silly, lighthearted

   Origin: from Latin 'frivolus', meaning 'worthless'

4. petulant · adjective/ˈpɛtʃələnt/

   bad-tempered and irritable in a childish way

   The petulant child threw a tantrum when he did not get his favorite toy.

   Synonyms: irritable, moody, touchy

   Origin: from Latin 'petulans', meaning 'impudent' or 'forward'

5. pensive · adjective/ˈpɛnsɪv/

   engaged in deep or serious thought

   She sat by the window, looking out with a pensive expression on her face.

   Synonyms: thoughtful, reflective, contemplative

   Origin: from Middle French 'pensif' meaning 'thoughtful', from the verb 'penser' meaning 'to think'