deference, indictment, prelude, malediction, annex: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 55. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. deference · noun/ˈdɛfərəns/

   respectful submission or yielding to the judgment or opinion of another

   In deference to his experience, the team changed their plan.

   Synonyms: respect, submission, yielding

   Origin: from Latin 'deferre' meaning 'to bring down, to carry away' which combines 'de-' (down) and 'ferre' (to carry).

2. indictment · noun/ɪnˈdaɪtmənt/

   a formal charge or accusation of a serious crime

   The grand jury handed down an indictment against the man for robbery.

   Synonyms: charge, accusation, allegation

   Origin: The word 'indictment' comes from the Old French 'enditer', meaning 'to accuse', which in turn comes from the Latin 'indictare', meaning 'to proclaim or announce'.

3. prelude · noun/ˈpreɪlud/

   an introduction or preliminary event leading to something more significant

   The calm music was a beautiful prelude to the exciting concert that followed.

   Synonyms: introduction, prologue, preface

   Origin: from Latin 'praeludere', meaning 'to play beforehand'

4. malediction · noun/ˌmælɪˈdɪkʃən/

   a curse or the utterance of a curse

   The old witch spoke a malediction against anyone who dared to enter her garden.

   Synonyms: curse, hex, jinx

   Origin: from Latin 'maledictio', which comes from 'male' meaning 'badly' and 'dicere' meaning 'to say'.

5. annex · verb/əˈnɛks/

   to add or attach something, especially a territory or building

   The country decided to annex the small island to expand its territory.

   Synonyms: attach, add, incorporate

   Origin: from Latin 'annexare', meaning 'to tie to' or 'to fasten to'