recumbent, soporific, diurnal, circumspect, normative: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 43. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. recumbent · adjective/rɪˈkʌm.bənt/

   lying down or reclining

   The recumbent bicycle is great for people who want to exercise while sitting down.

   Synonyms: reclining, lying, prostrate

   Origin: from Latin 'recumbentem', meaning 'lying back'

2. soporific · adjective/ˌsɑpəˈrɪfɪk/

   causing or tending to cause sleep

   The soporific sound of the rain made me fall asleep quickly.

   Synonyms: sleepy, drowsy, lethargic

   Origin: from Latin 'sopor' meaning 'deep sleep' and '-ific' meaning 'making or causing'

3. diurnal · adjective/daɪˈɜrnəl/

   active during the daytime or occurring every day

   Many birds are diurnal animals that sing during the day.

   Synonyms: daily, daytime, everyday

   Origin: from Latin 'diurnalis' meaning 'daily', from 'diurnus' meaning 'of the day'

4. circumspect · adjective/ˈsɜr.kəm.spekt/

   careful to consider all circumstances and possible consequences

   She was circumspect in her decisions, making sure to think about all the possible outcomes before acting.

   Synonyms: cautious, prudent, wary

   Origin: From Latin 'circumspectus', meaning 'looking around'.

5. normative · adjective/ˈnɔrmətɪv/

   establishing or judging according to standards of what should be

   The school promotes normative values such as respect and honesty among students.

   Synonyms: standard, typical, average

   Origin: from Latin 'normativus', meaning 'establishing a norm or standard'