Word Knowledge – Test 1

Ambient refers to a condition in the immediate surroundings. Based on the Latin root ambient, “going around.”

The Greek word soma means body, and psycho refers to the mind. Sam’s chest pains were imaginary, they were psychosomatic.

Primordial refers to something as it exists in the very beginning. Based on the Latin word primordium.

The Latin expression cornu copiae means plenty of a desirable item.

Diffident means cautious, lacking confidence. From the Latin word diffident, lacking trust or confidence.

Sacrosanct can be defined as untouchable or sacred.

The prefix bi indicates two and the root word, lateral, means sides. The treaty was bilateral.

Latin root word amor means love, showing a great feeling of attraction.

Precursor is something that comes before. Based on the Latin prae, beforehand.

From the Italian anti (preceding) and English chamber, room.

Hypoglycemia means a glucose deficiency in the blood. Based on the prefix hypo (below) and Greet root glyco (sugar).

An epithet is a rude, insulting word.

Based on the Latin root meaning wish. Sally is benevolent—a gracious, kindhearted soul.

Intractable means unmanageable, ungovernable based on the same root word as untreatable, the Latin  intractabilis.

Protagonist usually refers to the hero of a novel or film. Based on the Greek protos (most important) and agonists (actor).

The prefix post is the Latin after and the root, posth, means ground. Most often refers to the appearance of a work or recognition following death.