parsimonious, redolent, phlegmatic, wary, extant: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 14. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. parsimonious · adjective/ˌpɑr səˈmoʊ ni əs/

   excessively frugal or stingy

   My parsimonious uncle never wants to spend money on anything, even when it is needed.

   Synonyms: stingy, cheap, frugal

   Origin: from Latin 'parsimonia' meaning 'thrift, frugality'

2. redolent · adjective/ˈrɛd.əl.ənt/

   strongly reminiscent or suggestive of something

   The old house was redolent of childhood memories, bringing back feelings of happiness.

   Synonyms: suggestive, evocative, reminiscent

   Origin: from Latin 'redolens', present participle of 'redolere', meaning 'to emit a smell'

3. phlegmatic · adjective/flɛɡˈmætɪk/

   having an even temper and calm disposition

   Even during the loud argument, John remained phlegmatic and did not raise his voice.

   Synonyms: calm, composed, even-tempered

   Origin: From Middle English 'flegmatic', from Latin 'phlegmaticus', from Greek 'phlegmatikos', meaning 'related to phlegm'.

4. wary · adjective/ˈwɛri/

   cautious and alert to potential dangers or problems

   She was wary of the dark alley and decided to take a different route.

   Synonyms: cautious, alert, careful

   Origin: Middle English 'wary', from Old English 'werig', meaning 'weary' or 'cautious'.

5. extant · adjective/ɪkˈstænt/

   still in existence

   Many extant species of animals are found only in large forests.

   Synonyms: existing, alive, living

   Origin: from Latin 'extantem', present participle of 'extare', meaning 'to stand out' or 'to exist'