artifice, veracity, clemency, sluggard, mettle: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 78. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. artifice · noun/ˈɑrtɪfɪs/

   clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially as used to trick or deceive others

   The magician used clever artifice to make the rabbit disappear from the hat.

   Synonyms: trick, ruse, deception

   Origin: from Latin 'artificium', meaning 'craftsmanship, trade'; from 'ars' meaning 'art' and 'facere' meaning 'to make'.

2. veracity · noun/vəˈræs.ɪ.ti/

   the quality of being truthfully accurate

   The teacher praised the student for the veracity of his report, as it was based on facts.

   Synonyms: truth, accuracy, honesty

   Origin: From Latin 'veracitas', from 'verax' meaning 'truthful', from 'verus' meaning 'true'.

3. clemency · noun/ˈklɛmənsi/

   mercy or leniency shown towards a person or situation

   The judge decided to show clemency to the young offender, believing he deserved a second chance.

   Synonyms: mercy, leniency, compassion

   Origin: From Latin 'clementia', meaning 'mildness, gentleness'

4. sluggard · noun/ˈslʌɡərd/

   a person who is habitually lazy or inactive

   The sluggard never finishes his homework on time because he always sleeps in.

   Synonyms: lazybones, idler, loafer

   Origin: Middle English, from 'slug' meaning 'slow, lazy person'

5. mettle · noun/ˈmɛtəl/

   courage and resilience in facing difficulties

   She showed her mettle during the hard training, never giving up when things got tough.

   Synonyms: courage, spirit, determination

   Origin: The word 'mettle' originates from Middle English 'metel', which comes from the Old French 'metaille' meaning 'metal', and is thought to relate to the idea of 'strength' or 'quality'.