allure, ethos, gaffe, gist, stigma: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 2. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. allure · noun/əˈlʊr/

   the quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating

   The allure of the bright city lights drew many tourists to explore its secrets.

   Synonyms: attraction, charm, appeal

   Origin: from Latin 'allurare' meaning to ‘ lure’

2. ethos · noun/ˈiːθɔs/

   the characteristic spirit or beliefs of a community, culture, or era

   The school's ethos encourages teamwork and respect among students.

   Synonyms: spirit, character, culture

   Origin: from Greek 'ethos', meaning 'character' or 'custom'

3. gaffe · noun/ɡæf/

   a social or diplomatic blunder or mistake

   The diplomat made a gaffe during the reception by repeatedly mispronouncing the host's name.

   Synonyms: blunder, mistake, error

   Origin: from French 'gaffe', meaning 'a slip or blunder'

4. gist · noun/dʒɪst/

   the main idea or essence of something

   The gist of the story is that friendship requires loyalty.

   Synonyms: substance, essence, core

   Origin: from Old French 'gist', meaning 'it lies', from Latin 'jacere', meaning 'to lie down'

5. stigma · noun/ˈstɪɡ.mə/

   a negative social judgment associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person

   The stigma surrounding mental health conditions can prevent people from seeking support.

   Synonyms: shame, disgrace, blemish

   Origin: Originates from the Greek word 'stigma', meaning 'a mark' or 'a sign'.