Proficient Plus — Set 91

Set 91 of Proficient Plus covers 5 words: fringe, zeal, paragon, labyrinth, posterity. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. fringe · noun/frɪndʒ/

   the outer edge or border of something

   The fringe of the forest is where the sunlight shines through the trees.

   Synonyms: edge, border, margin

   Origin: Middle English 'frynge', from Old French 'fringe', meaning 'a border or edge'.

2. zeal · noun/zil/

   great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective

   She worked with great zeal to help the animals in need.

   Synonyms: enthusiasm, passion, fervor

   Origin: The word 'zeal' comes from the Greek word 'zelos' meaning 'ardor' or 'jealousy'.

3. paragon · noun/ˈpɛr.ə.ɡɑn/

   a model of excellence or perfection of a kind

   She is a paragon of kindness, always helping others in need.

   Synonyms: model, ideal, exemplar

   Origin: from Middle English 'paragon', derived from Old French 'paragon', which means 'a model or example'.

4. labyrinth · noun/ˈlæb.ɪ.rɪnθ/

   a complicated network of winding passages or paths

   The children got lost in the big labyrinth of the garden.

   Synonyms: maze, network, warren

   Origin: from Latin 'labyrinthus', from Greek 'labyrinthos', believed to be derived from the Minotaur myth in ancient Crete

5. posterity · timeout/pɑˈstɛr.ɪ.ti/

   TIMEOUT

   He wrote a letter to ensure that his thoughts would be saved for posterity.

   Synonyms: descendants, future generations, heirs

   Origin: From Latin 'posteritas', meaning 'future' or 'those who come after'