convinced, flattered, insulted, puzzled, relieved: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Upper-Intermediate set 46. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. convinced · adjective/kənˈvɪnst/

   completely sure that something is true

   He was absolutely convinced that the burglar was still around following him.

   Synonyms: persuaded

2. flattered · adjective/ˈflædər/

   feeling pleased because someone has praised or shown admiration

   I cannot hide that I felt flattered when I saw my name in the same list as the most distinguished writers in the country.

   Synonyms: complemented

   Origin: Middle English: perhaps a back-formation from flattery

3. insulted · adjective/ɪnˈsəlt/

   treated or spoken to rudely

   The singer was heavily insulted by his fans when he remained silent after the attack in the capital of the country.

   Synonyms: offended, humiliated, disgraced

   Origin: mid 16th century (as a verb in the sense ‘exult, act arrogantly’): from Latin insultare ‘jump or trample on’, from in- ‘on’ + saltare, from salire ‘to leap’. The noun (in the early 17th century denoting an attack) is from French insulte or ecclesiastical Latin insultus. The main current senses date from the 17th century, the medical use dating from the early 20th century

4. puzzled · adjective/ˈpəzəld/

   confused, not able to understand

   The president was puzzled at the allegation made on her about hiding the truth about her health.

   Synonyms: baffled, bewildered

5. relieved · adjective/rəˈlivd/

   happy because of not having to worry about something

   My parents were so relieved to hear that the tumour I had was benign.

   Synonyms: reassured, relaxed, satisfied