What Are 10 Unfamiliar Words?
Delving into the vast tapestry of the English language, we often encounter words that initially leave us bewildered. These unfamiliar terms may not be readily discernible from their spelling or pronunciation alone, requiring us to seek their true meaning through exploration and discovery.
In this article, we present a curated list of ten such elusive words, unlocking their enigmatic nature and inviting you to expand your vocabulary with newfound eloquence. These words, once unfamiliar, shall become familiar acquaintances, enriching your written and spoken discourse.
1. Brobdingnagian
A colossal word for an equally colossal concept, “brobdingnagian” describes something of extraordinary size or magnitude, far exceeding the ordinary. This term derives its origin from the fictional land of Brobdingnag in Jonathan Swift’s satirical masterpiece “Gulliver’s Travels,” where the inhabitants towered over the diminutive protagonist.
2. Loquacious
The incessant flow of words characterizes a person who is loquacious. This word, derived from the Latin “loqui” (to speak), captures the essence of someone who speaks excessively, often delighting in their own eloquence or perhaps unaware of the potential for verbosity.
3. Obsequious
When obsequious behavior is displayed, an individual exhibits excessive servility and flattery, seeking favor or advantage through a fawning and submissive demeanor. This term is often used in a pejorative sense, denoting a lack of self-respect and principled conduct.
4. Ubiquitous
A constant companion in our daily lives, something or someone that is ubiquitous is found everywhere, present in seemingly every place and corner. This word stems from the Latin “ubi” (where) and “que” (and), underscoring its pervasive nature.
5. Ephemeral
In contrast to the enduring, the ephemeral exists for only a fleeting moment, quickly passing from existence. This term encapsulates the transient beauty of a flower, the evanescence of a dream, or the fragility of human life.
6. Abrogate
To abrogate is to repeal or abolish a law, treaty, or agreement, rendering it null and void. This term, derived from the Latin “abrogare” (to repeal), implies a formal action of nullification, often undertaken by a legislative body or authority.
7. Strident
A strident sound is one that is harsh, grating, and excessively loud. This word, originating from the Latin “stridere” (to creak), evokes a sense of unpleasantness and auditory irritation that can pierce through the din.
8. Obstreperous
A person or situation that is obstreperous is marked by noisy, boisterous, and unruly behavior. This term, ultimately derived from the Latin “obtrepere” (to drown out), conveys a sense of disturbance and disruption that can be both disruptive and exhausting.
9. Penultimate
Before the very last, the penultimate occupies the position second to the end in a series, sequence, or list. This word, originating from the Latin “paene” (almost) and “ultimus” (last), serves as a reminder that even in the face of completion, there is often one more step to take.
10. Pyrrhic
A Pyrrhic victory is one that is ultimately self-defeating, entailing such heavy losses that it negates any semblance of triumph. This term, named after King Pyrrhus of Epirus, who won a costly battle against the Romans in 279 B.C., warns against the allure of short-sighted victories.
Questions and Answers
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What is the meaning of “brobdingnagian”?
- Brobdingnagian means something of extraordinary size or magnitude.
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What does it mean to be loquacious?
- To be loquacious is to speak excessively.
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What is the difference between “ubiquitous” and “ephemeral”?
- Ubiquitous means something is found everywhere, while ephemeral means something exists for only a fleeting moment.
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What does it mean to abrogate a law?
- To abrogate a law means to repeal or abolish it.
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What is the meaning of the word “strident”?
- Strident means harsh, grating, and excessively loud.
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