emollient, unwitting, expedient, solicitous, inconspicuous: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 63. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. emollient · noun/ɪˈmɑl.jənt/

   a substance that softens or soothes the skin

   After a long day in the sun, she applied an emollient lotion to her skin to make it soft again.

   Synonyms: soothing cream, moisturizer, balm

   Origin: from Latin 'emolliens', meaning 'softening', from 'emollire' meaning 'to soften'

2. unwitting · adjective/ʌnˈwɪt̬.ɪŋ/

   not aware of the full facts or circumstances

   She was an unwitting participant in the prank, not knowing it was all a joke.

   Synonyms: unaware, oblivious, ignorant

   Origin: The word 'unwitting' comes from the Old English word 'witting', which means 'knowing' or 'aware'. The prefix 'un-' means 'not', so 'unwitting' literally means 'not knowing' or 'not aware'.

3. expedient · adjective/ɪkˈspiːdiənt/

   convenient and practical although possibly improper or immoral

   In order to win the game, the team made an expedient choice to cheat, even though it was unfair.

   Synonyms: convenient, useful, helpful

   Origin: from Latin 'expedientem', meaning 'to free one from obstacles'

4. solicitous · adjective/səˈlɪsɪtəs/

   showing concern or care for someone's well-being

   The solicitous teacher always asks if her students understand the lessons.

   Synonyms: caring, concerned, attentive

   Origin: from Latin 'sollicitus', meaning 'troubled or anxious'

5. inconspicuous · adjective/ɪn.kənˈspɪk.ju.əs/

   not easily seen or noticed

   The small tree was inconspicuous in the large forest, making it hard to find.

   Synonyms: unnoticeable, hidden, discreet

   Origin: from Latin 'inconspicuus', meaning 'not seen' (in- 'not' + conspicere 'to see').