somatic, vapid, banal, intemperate, fetid: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 81. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. somatic · adjective/səˈmætɪk/

   relating to the body, especially as distinct from the mind

   The therapy focused on somatic healing to help the patients feel better in their bodies.

   Synonyms: bodily, physical

   Origin: from Greek 'sōmatikos', meaning 'of the body'

2. vapid · adjective/ˈvæp.ɪd/

   lacking flavor, interest, or imagination

   The movie was so vapid that I fell asleep in the middle of it.

   Synonyms: dull, flat, bland

   Origin: from Latin 'vapidus', meaning 'vapid, insipid' which comes from 'vapor' meaning 'steam' or 'vaporous'

3. banal · adjective/bəˈnæl/

   lacking in originality or freshness; trite

   The movie was filled with banal dialogue that made it boring to watch.

   Synonyms: trite, dull, ordinary

   Origin: French, from 'banal' meaning 'common, belonging to the community'

4. intemperate · adjective/ɪnˈtɛmpərɪt/

   lacking moderation or restraint

   His intemperate remarks during the meeting made everyone uncomfortable.

   Synonyms: excessive, immoderate, unrestrained

   Origin: from Latin 'intemperatus', meaning 'out of season, unmoderated'

5. fetid · adjective/ˈfɛt.ɪd/

   having a strong unpleasant smell

   The fetid odor from the garbage made me feel sick.

   Synonyms: foul, rancid, putrid

   Origin: from Latin 'fetidus', meaning 'stinking'