volatile, morose, arbitrary, flippant, insipid: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 3. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. volatile · adjective/ˈvɑːlətaɪl/

   likely to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse

   The stock market can be very volatile, making it hard to predict prices.

   Synonyms: fickle, changeable, unstable

   Origin: from Latin 'volatilis', meaning 'flying' or 'fleeting'

2. morose · adjective/məˈroʊs/

   sullen and ill-tempered

   After losing the game, Jake felt morose and didn't want to talk to anyone.

   Synonyms: gloomy, sullen, melancholy

   Origin: from Latin 'morosus' meaning 'peevish' or 'sullen'

3. arbitrary · adjective/ˈɑrbɪtreri/

   based on random choice or personal whim rather than any reason or system

   The teacher made an arbitrary choice when assigning the project topics, without considering the students' interests.

   Synonyms: random, capricious, whimsical

   Origin: from Middle Latin 'arbitrarius', from 'arbiter', meaning 'judge' or 'one who gives a decision'

4. flippant · adjective/ˈflɪp.ənt/

   lacking proper seriousness or respect

   His flippant remarks during the meeting upset many people who were serious about the project.

   Synonyms: dismissive, glib, impudent

   Origin: From the word 'flip,' meaning to throw or toss, in the sense of treating something lightly or without concern.

5. insipid · adjective/ɪnˈsɪp.ɪd/

   lacking flavor, vigor, or interest

   The soup was insipid and needed more spices to taste better.

   Synonyms: dull, bland, tasteless

   Origin: from Latin 'insipidus', meaning 'tasteless'