malevolent, covert, arduous, prone, ebullient: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 18. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. malevolent · adjective/məˈlɛv.əl.ənt/

   having or showing a wish to do evil to others

   The malevolent ghost scared everyone in the old house.

   Synonyms: malicious, wicked

   Origin: From Latin 'malevolentem', meaning 'wishing evil' (from 'male' meaning 'badly' and 'volens' meaning 'wishing')

2. covert · adjective/ˈkoʊ.vɚt/

   not openly acknowledged or displayed

   The spy had a covert mission to gather secret information.

   Synonyms: hidden, secret, undercover

   Origin: From Middle English, from Old French 'covert', from Latin 'cāverta', meaning 'covered'.

3. arduous · adjective/ˈɑrdʒuəs/

   involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring

   Climbing the tall mountain was an arduous task for the team.

   Synonyms: difficult, hard, challenging

   Origin: from Middle English 'arduous', from Latin 'arduus' meaning steep or difficult

4. prone · adjective/proʊn/

   having a tendency or inclination to do something

   Children are prone to getting colds during the winter months.

   Synonyms: likely, inclined, predisposed

   Origin: Middle English, from the Old French 'prone', from Latin 'pronus' meaning 'bent forward, sloping'; related to 'pro-' meaning 'for' and 'inclinare' meaning 'to incline'.

5. ebullient · adjective/ɪˈbʌljənt/

   overflowing with enthusiasm or excitement

   The ebullient crowd cheered loudly as the band started to play their favorite song.

   Synonyms: enthusiastic, excited, lively

   Origin: from Latin 'ebullientem', meaning 'boiling over'