toady, shrewdness, collusion, epicure, predicament: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 93. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. toady · noun/ˈtoʊ.di/

   a person who flatters or ingratiates themselves with someone important

   The toady always agrees with the boss, hoping to get a promotion.

   Synonyms: sycophant, flatterer, brown-noser

   Origin: The word 'toady' originates from the 17th century, derived from 'toad-eater,' referring to someone who flatters the powerful, akin to a toad that eats pests in return for protection.

2. shrewdness · noun/ʃrud.nəs/

   the quality of being astute or sharp in judgment and perception

   Her shrewdness in business helped her make a lot of money.

   Synonyms: wisdom, cleverness, astuteness

   Origin: from Middle English 'shrewd', meaning 'evil' or 'malicious', later evolving to mean 'sharp' or 'clever'

3. collusion · noun/kəˈluːʒən/

   a secret agreement or cooperation between parties for illegal or dishonest purposes

   The two companies were accused of collusion to fix prices and trick customers.

   Synonyms: conspiracy, cabal, plot

   Origin: from Latin 'collusio', meaning 'a playing together,' from 'colludere' (to play together, to conspire).

4. epicure · noun/ˈɛpɪkjʊr/

   a person who takes particular pleasure in fine food and drink

   The epicure enjoyed tasting different wines at the special dinner.

   Synonyms: gourmet, connoisseur, foodie

   Origin: The word 'epicure' comes from the Latin 'Epicurus', a Greek philosopher known for his teachings on pleasure and happiness.

5. predicament · noun/prɪˈdɪkəmənt/

   a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation

   I found myself in a difficult predicament when I lost my wallet on the bus.

   Synonyms: dilemma, trouble, bind

   Origin: The word 'predicament' comes from the Latin 'praedicamentum,' which means 'category' or 'predicament.'