exigent, quintessential, venerable, dilatory, erratic: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 65. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. exigent · adjective/ˈɛksɪdʒənt/

   requiring immediate attention or action

   The doctor had to respond to an exigent situation when a patient arrived with serious injuries.

   Synonyms: urgent, pressing, critical

   Origin: from Latin 'exigentem', meaning 'demanding' or 'needy'

2. quintessential · adjective/kwɪn.təˈsɛn.ʃəl/

   representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class

   The Eiffel Tower is the quintessential symbol of Paris.

   Synonyms: typical, essential, perfect

   Origin: from Latin 'quintessentia', meaning 'fifth essence'

3. venerable · adjective/ˈvɛn.ɚ.ə.bəl/

   worthy of respect due to age, wisdom, or character

   The venerable teacher shared stories from his long career that inspired all the students.

   Synonyms: esteemed, respected, admired

   Origin: from Latin 'venerabilis', meaning 'worthy of honor or respect'

4. dilatory · adjective/ˈdɪl.ə.tɔːr.i/

   tending to delay or procrastinate

   His dilatory behavior in completing assignments made it hard for the team to finish the project on time.

   Synonyms: slow, tardy, laggard

   Origin: From Latin 'dilatorius', from 'dilat-' meaning 'to delay'.

5. erratic · adjective/ɪˈrætɪk/

   not even or regular in pattern or movement unpredictable

   The train's erratic schedule made it hard for passengers to know when to arrive.

   Synonyms: unpredictable, irregular, inconsistent

   Origin: Late Latin 'erraticus', meaning 'wandering' or 'straying'