cant, guffaw, lint, vagary, ointment: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 82. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. cant · noun/kænt/

   insincere or conventional language about moral, religious, or political ideals

   The politician's speech was full of cant about helping the poor, but his actions showed he cared only for himself.

   Synonyms: hypocrisy, insincerity, empty talk

   Origin: The word 'cant' originates from the late Middle English, derived from the Old Northern French 'cant' meaning 'song, chant', and its connotation of insincere language developed in the early 19th century.

2. guffaw · noun/ɡəˈfɔ/

   a loud and boisterous laugh

   The joke was so funny that it made everyone burst into a loud guffaw.

   Synonyms: laugh, cackle, howl

   Origin: The word 'guffaw' comes from the early 19th century, possibly imitative of a loud laugh.

3. lint · noun/lɪnt/

   fuzzy fibers or fluff that accumulate on fabric or surfaces

   I found some lint on my shirt after taking it out of the dryer.

   Synonyms: fuzz, fluff, fiber

   Origin: The word 'lint' originates from the Old English word 'lynt', which relates to linen. It is related to the word 'linseed', referring to the plant from which linen is made.

4. vagary · noun/ˈveɪ.ɡər.i/

   an unexpected and inexplicable change in a situation or in someone's behavior

   The vagary of the weather surprised everyone at the picnic.

   Synonyms: whim, caprice, quirk

   Origin: From Latin 'vagari' meaning 'to wander'

5. ointment · noun/ˈɔɪntmənt/

   a smooth, oily substance applied to the skin for medicinal purposes

   She put some ointment on her cut to help it heal.

   Synonyms: salve, balm, cream

   Origin: Middle English from the Old French 'oignement', derived from the Latin 'unguentum' meaning 'ointment or unguent'