muse, altruism, solace, parity, omen: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 20. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. muse · noun/mjuːz/

   a source of inspiration or a guiding spirit

   The artist found her muse in the beautiful landscape around her.

   Synonyms: inspiration, influence, guide

   Origin: From Latin 'musa', from Greek 'mousa', meaning 'muse' or 'goddess of inspiration'.

2. altruism · noun/ˈæl.truˌɪ.zəm/

   the selfless concern for the well-being of others

   Her altruism made her help the poor, even when she had little to give.

   Synonyms: selflessness, kindness, generosity

   Origin: from French 'altruisme', derived from Latin 'alter', meaning 'other'

3. solace · noun/ˈsɑː.ləs/

   comfort or consolation in a time of grief or distress

   She found solace in her friends after losing her pet.

   Synonyms: comfort, relief, consolation

   Origin: From Old French 'solas,' from Latin 'solacium,' meaning 'to soothe' or 'to comfort.'

4. parity · noun/ˈpær.ɪ.ti/

   the state or condition of being equal or equivalent

   The company worked hard to achieve salary parity among all its employees.

   Synonyms: equality, sameness, equivalence

   Origin: from Latin 'paritas', meaning 'equality'

5. omen · noun/ˈoʊ.mən/

   a sign or setback indicating the future occurrence of something

   The black cat crossing the road is considered an omen of bad luck.

   Synonyms: sign, warning, portent

   Origin: Latin 'omen', which means 'sign' or 'foreboding'