Proficient — Set 67

Set 67 of Proficient covers 5 words: natty, indolent, senile, timorous, reprehensible. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. natty · adjective/ˈnæti/

   pertaining to something being natural or not artificially enhanced

   She wore a natty outfit made from organic cotton and other natural materials.

   Synonyms: natural, pure, simple

   Origin: The word 'natty' comes from the term 'natty' which originated in the late 18th century, possibly derived from 'natty' meaning 'neat' or 'smart' in appearance. The link to 'natural' is more contemporary.

2. indolent · adjective/ˈɪndələnt/

   habitually lazy or inactive

   The indolent cat lay on the couch all day and refused to play.

   Synonyms: lazy, idle, sluggish

   Origin: From the Latin 'indolens', meaning 'unconcerned' or 'carefree', from 'in-' (not) + 'dolens' (paining)

3. senile · adjective/ˈsiːnaɪl/

   showing a decline in mental or physical ability due to old age

   My grandfather is becoming senile and often forgets where he put his glasses.

   Synonyms: aged, elderly, decrepit

   Origin: from Latin 'senilis', meaning 'of old age'

4. timorous · adjective/ˈtɪmərəs/

   feeling or showing a lack of courage or confidence

   The timorous child hesitated to speak in front of the class.

   Synonyms: fearful, cowardly, shy

   Origin: from Latin 'timorosus', meaning 'full of fear'

5. reprehensible · adjective/ˌrɛprɪˈhɛnɪbəl/

   deserving condemnation or punishment

   His actions were reprehensible and shocked everyone in the town.

   Synonyms: blameworthy, shameful, wrong

   Origin: from Latin 'reprehensibilis', meaning 'to rebuke' or 'to hold back'