finite, infinite, gigantic, solar, lunar: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Upper-Intermediate set 50. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. finite · adjective/ˈfaɪˌnaɪt/

   having a limit or end

   Stephen Hawking's final theory about the Big Bang has been published, and it claims the universe is finite and far simpler than previously thought.

   Synonyms: limited

   Origin: late Middle English: from Latin finitus ‘finished’, past participle of finire (see finish)

2. infinite · adjective/ˈɪnfənət/

   not having a limit or end

   Two possibilities exist: either the Universe has a limit and a size, or it's infinite and goes on forever.

   Synonyms: unlimited, endless

   Origin: late Middle English: from Latin infinitus, from in- ‘not’ + finitus ‘finished, finite’ (see finite)

3. gigantic · adjective/dʒaɪˈɡæn(t)ɪk/

   extremely big; huge

   Researchers think that the source of the gigantic eruption is this black hole.

   Synonyms: enormous, vast, immense

   Origin: early 17th century (in the sense ‘like or suited to a giant’): from Latin gigas, gigant- (see giant) + -ic

4. solar · adjective/ˈsoʊlər/

   relating to or derived from the sun

   Solar energy is the radiant energy produced by the Sun.

   Synonyms: NONE

   Origin: late Middle English: from Latin solaris, from sol ‘sun’

5. lunar · adjective/ˈlunər/

   relating to or derived from the moon

   A lunar calendar is a calendar that is based on cycles of the Moon's phases.

   Synonyms: NONE

   Origin: late Middle English: from Latin lunaris, from luna ‘moon’