Proficient — Set 40

Set 40 of Proficient covers 5 words: receptacle, perdition, culpability, sinecure, modicum. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. receptacle · noun/rɪˈsɛp.tɪ.kəl/

   a container or device that holds something

   The trash receptacle was full, so we had to take it outside.

   Synonyms: container, holder, vessel

   Origin: from Latin 'receptaculum', meaning 'a receiving'; from 'receptus', meaning 'received'.

2. perdition · noun/pərˈdɪʃən/

   a state of eternal punishment and damnation into which a sinful and unpenitent person passes after death

   After a life of bad choices, he feared he was headed for perdition.

   Synonyms: damnation, hell, abyss

   Origin: From Latin 'perditio', meaning 'destruction or ruin'.

3. culpability · noun/ˌkʌlpəˈbɪləti/

   the state of being responsible for a fault or wrongdoing

   The judge found her culpability in the crime undeniable.

   Synonyms: responsibility, fault, blame

   Origin: from Latin 'culpa' meaning 'fault' or 'blame'

4. sinecure · noun/ˈsɪnɪkjʊr/

   a position or office that requires little or no work but provides financial benefit

   After years of hard work, he finally found a sinecure that paid well without requiring much effort.

   Synonyms: cushy job, easy job, do-nothing job

   Origin: from Latin 'sine cura', meaning 'without care'

5. modicum · noun/ˈmɒdɪkəm/

   a small or moderate amount

   She only has a modicum of patience when waiting in long lines.

   Synonyms: bit, small amount, parcel

   Origin: Latin 'modicus', meaning moderate or small