epithet, nostrum, rancor, millinery, absolution: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 62. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. epithet · noun/ˈɛpɪˌθɛt/

   a descriptive phrase expressing a quality or characteristic of the person or thing mentioned

   He is known by the epithet 'the Brave' because he always stands up for others.

   Synonyms: nickname, title, label

   Origin: From Greek 'epitheton', meaning 'added, attributed.'

2. nostrum · noun/ˈnɑːstrəm/

   a medicine or remedy of questionable effectiveness

   Many people believe in this old nostrum for colds, but it does not work for everyone.

   Synonyms: remedy, cure, treatment

   Origin: from Latin 'nostrum', meaning 'ours' (used in the phrase 'nostrum medicum' meaning 'our medicine')

3. rancor · noun/ˈræŋ.kər/

   intense bitterness or anger towards someone

   After the argument, there was still a lot of rancor between the friends.

   Synonyms: bitterness, resentment, animosity

   Origin: From Middle French 'rancœur' meaning 'bitterness', derived from Latin 'rancorem', meaning 'rancidness' or 'bitterness'.

4. millinery · noun/ˈmɪlənəri/

   the art or trade of making or selling women's hats

   She has always loved millinery, and her collection of hats is amazing.

   Synonyms: hat-making, hat trade, hat shop

   Origin: The word 'millinery' comes from the Middle English 'milenerie,' which originally referred to the trade of hat-making in Milan, Italy.

5. absolution · noun/ˌæb.səˈluʃ.ən/

   formal release from guilt, obligation, or punishment

   After he confessed his mistakes, he felt a sense of absolution and peace.

   Synonyms: forgiveness, pardon, release

   Origin: From Middle English 'absolucioun', from Latin 'absolutionem', meaning 'release, freedom, forgiveness'