Friday, 16 August 2013

469. IELTS - WORD FORMATION - WITH ROOTS



WORD  FORMATION - WITH  ROOTS

How Good Is Your Vocabulary?
To see how your vocabulary measures up to that of other people, take the following tests.
As you go through each test, put a check mark next to any word you don't know.
After you complete each test, go back and see which of your choices proved correct. Then take a minute to study the words you missed.
The first test consists of twenty-five phrases, each containing an italicized word. Circle the correct response. This test has no time limit.

1. a lenient supervisor
a. short                        b. not strict                  c. inflexible                d. shrewd

2. an audacious endeavor
a. foolish                     b. serious                     c. expensive               d. bold

3. a latent talent
a. apparent                   b. valuable                   c. present but not apparent d. useless

4. a gaudy dress
a. expensive                 b. deep green               c. flattering                d. showy

5. a disheveled person
a. useless                     b. untidy                      c. miserable                d. vicious

6. feign illness
a. suffer                       b. pretend                    c. die from                 d. enjoy

7. an agile child
a. intelligent                b. nimble                     c. neglected               d. annoying

8. a somber night
a. dismal                      b. expensive                c. lively                      d. disastrous

9. a prosaic event
a. extraordinary           b. irregular                   c. commonplace         d. pretty

10. a vivacious person
a. annoying                  b. dismal                      c. vicious                    d. spirited

11. a baffling situation
a. puzzling                   b. obvious                    c. easy                        d. old

12. a hiatus in the schedule
a. continuation            b. uniformity               c. gap                         d. beginning

13. a lackluster report
a. enthusiastic              b. praiseworthy           c. dull                         d. wordy

14. a prevalent condition
a. adult                        b. widespread              c. previous                 d. fatal

15. a loquacious person
a. talkative                   b. cutthroat                  c. laconic                    d. enthusiastic

16. an anonymous victim
a. willing                     b. known                     c. not known or named           d. foreign

17. a vicarious thrill
a. incomplete               b. triumphant               c. spoiled                   d. indirect

18. a languid feeling
a. nervous                    b. energetic                  c. fatigued                 d. robust

19. vernacular language
a. ordinary                   b. elevated                   c. formal                    d. informal

20. a religious icon
a. gesture                     b. picture                     c. ritual                       d. structure

21. inclement weather
a. fair                           b. unexpected              c. foul                        d. disturbing

22. a cavalier attitude
a. pleasant                   b. dramatic                  c. considerate             d. arrogant

23. a caustic remark
a. wise                         b. biting                       c. prudent                  d. complimentary

24. a timely caveat
a. bargain                     b. purchase                  c. warning                  d. movement

25. an ominous situation
a. pleasant                   b. rigid                         c. obvious                  d. threatening


Write your answer in the space provided.

1. imminent                       [    ]            a. cleanse _____
2. fluster                            [    ]            b. flashy _____
3. rigid                               [    ]            c. confuse _____
4. purge                             [    ]            d. restore _____
5. rehabilitate                    [    ]            e. hinder _____
6. latent                             [    ]            f. pretend _____
7. gaudy                            [    ]            g. stiff _____
8. feign                              [    ]            h. coax _____
9. cajole                             [    ]            i. hidden _____
10. impede                        [    ]            j. at hand _____


Test for a Good Vocabulary

Only half the adults tested got all of the following words correct.

See how well you can do! Write S if the word in the second column is similar in meaning to the word in the first column or O if it is opposite.

S or O [S= Similar’   O=opposite]

1. myriad                     few _____
2. panacea                   cure-all _____
3. opulent                    spare _____
4. eschew                    shun _____
5. nefarious                 wicked _____
6. incarcerate               imprison _____
7. ameliorate                make worse _____
8. candor                     hypocrisy _____
9. taciturn                    talkative _____
10. verbose                  wordy _____

Test for an Excellent Vocabulary
Fewer than one quarter of the adults tested got all of the following words correct. In the space provided, write T if the definition is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. Obsequiousness is a sign of pride. _____
2. Parsimonious people are extravagant. _____
3. Recycling is an exigency of the moment. _____
4. The hawk is a predatory bird. _____
5. An aquiline nose is straight. _____
6. A covert plan is out in the open. _____
7. It is hard to explain things to an obtuse person. _____
8. Someone with catholic views is narrow-minded. _____
9. A large debt obviates financial worries. _____
10. Erudite people are well-read. _____

"Other Places, Other Faces": al, all, alter

An "alibi" is a defense by an accused person who claims to have been elsewhere at the time the offense was committed. The word comes from the Latin root "al," meaning other. Outside of law, an alibi often means an excuse, especially to avoid blame.

The Latin roots "al" and "alter," as well as the related Greek root "all" or "allo," all mean other or another, and form the basis of a number of English words.

After you study the definitions and practice the pronunciations, complete the quizzes.

1. alien (al"y*n, a"le *n) a person born in and owing allegiance to a country other than the one in which he or she lives; a nonterrestrial being; foreign or strange.
Although my neighbor is not an American citizen, he has lived in this country so long he no longer thinks of himself as an alien.

2. allegory (al"* gôr'e) a representation of an abstract meaning through concrete or material forms; figurative treatment of one subject under the guise of another.
Nathaniel Hawthorne's short story "Young Goodman Brown" can be read as an allegory of an average person's encounter with sin and temptation.

3. alias (a"le *s) a false or assumed name, especially as used by a criminal. From the Latin word meaning otherwise.
Many criminals use an alias with the same initials as their real name; Clyde Griffith, for example, took as his alias "Chester Gillett."

4. alienate (al"y* nat', a"le *-) to make indifferent or hostile. From Latin "alienare," to make another.
Unkempt yards alienate prospective home buyers.

5. altruism (al"tr» iz'*m) unselfish concern for the welfare of others.
Devotion to the poor, sick, and unfortunate of the world shows a person's altruism.

6. altercation (ôl't*r ka"sh*n) a heated or angry dispute; noisy argument or controversy. From Latin "altercari," to quarrel with another.
The collision resulted in an altercation between the two drivers.

7. inalienable (in al"y* n* b*l, -a"le *-) not transferable to another; incapable of being repudiated.
Freedom of speech is the inalienable right of every American citizen.

8. allograft (al"* graft') tissue grafted or transplanted to another member of the same species.
Allografts of vital organs have saved many lives.

9. allogamy (* log"* me) cross-fertilization in plants. From "allo-," other + "-gamy," pollination.
To ensure allogamy, the farmer set out many different plants close together.

10. alter ego (ôl"t*r e"go) another self; an inseparable friend.
Superman's alter ego, the mild-mannered Clark Kent, is a reporter for the Daily Planet.

Matching Synonyms

Match each of the numbered words with its closest synonym. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. alien                         a. absolute _____
2. alias                         b. cross-fertilization _____
3. alter ego                  c. selflessness, kindness _____
4. allogamy                  d. best friend _____
5. allegory                   e. another name _____
6. inalienable               f. transplant _____
7. altruism                   g. contention, quarrel _____
8. alienate                    h. symbolic narrative _____
9. allograft                   i. stranger, outcast _____
10. altercation             j. turn away, estrange _____

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. alien                         foreign _____
2. alias                         excuse _____
3. alter                         ego egotist _____
4. allogamy                  multiple marriage _____
5. allegory                   moral story _____
6. inalienable               without basis in fact _____
7. altruism                   unselfishness _____
8. alienate                    estrange _____
9. allograft                   illegal money _____
10. altercation             dispute _____

 "The Breath of Life": anima

Ancient peoples connected the soul with the breath. They saw that when people died they stopped breathing, and they believed that the soul left the body at the same time. They also believed that when people sneezed, the soul left the body for a moment, so they muttered a hasty blessing to ensure that the soul would return quickly to its rightful place. The Latin root for air or breath, "anima," also means soul, spirit, or mind, reflecting this belief in a connection between life and breathing. Many English words come from this root.

Below are ten words linked to "anima." After you study the definitions and practice the pronunciations, complete the quizzes.

1. animation (an'* ma"sh*n) liveliness or vivacity; the act or an instance of animating or enlivening. From Latin "animare," to give life to.
In speech class we learned how to talk with animation to make our presentations more interesting.

2. animadversion (an'* mad vûr"zh*n, -sh*n) criticism; censure. From Latin "animus," mind, spirit + "adversio," attention, warning.
The critic's animadversion on the subject of TV shows revealed his bias against popular culture.

3. animus (an"* m*s) hostile feeling or attitude.
The jury's animus toward the defendant was obvious from the jurors' stony faces and stiff posture.

4. pusillanimous (py»'s* lan"* m*s) lacking courage or resolution; cowardly. From Latin "pusillus," very small + "animus," spirit.
He was so pusillanimous that he wouldn't even run away from a bully.

5. unanimity (y»'n* nim"i te) the state or quality of being in complete agreement; undivided opinion or a consensus. From Latin "unus," one + "animus," mind, spirit.
The school board's unanimity on the controversial issue of sex education was all the more surprising in light of their well-known individual differences.

6. animate (an"* mat') to give life or liveliness to; alive.
Her presence animated the otherwise dull party.

7. animalcule (an'* mal"ky»l) a minute or microscopic organism. From Latin "animalis," living, animal + "-culum," tiny thing.
The animalcule could not be seen with the naked eye.

8. magnanimous (mag nan"* m*s) generous in forgiving an insult or injury; free from petty resentfulness. From Latin "magnus," large, great + "animus," soul.
The governor's magnanimous pardon of the offender showed his liberal nature.

9. inanimate (in an"* mit) not alive or lively; lifeless.
Pinocchio was inanimate, a puppet carved from a block of wood.

10. animism (an"* miz'*m) the belief that natural objects, natural phenomena, and the universe itself possess souls or consciousness.
Their belief in animism drew them to the woods, where they felt more in touch with nature's spirit.

Matching Synonyms
Match each of the numbered words with the closest synonym. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. animadversion a. enliven _____
2. animus b. harmony _____
3. pusillanimous c. generous _____
4. unanimity d. cowardly _____
5. animate e. hostility _____
6. animalcule f. spirit, zest _____
7. magnanimous g. a censorious remark _____
8. inanimate h. a belief in spirits _____
9. animation i. a minute organism _____
10. animism j. inert _____

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. animadversion                     praise _____
2. animus                                 hostility _____
3. pusillanimous                      cowardly _____
4. unanimity                            total agreement _____
5. animate                                deaden _____
6. animalcule                           small soul _____
7. magnanimous                      generous _____
8. inanimate                             living _____
9. animation                            liveliness _____
10. animism                             love of animals _____

"The Year of Wonders": ann, enn

While certain years are celebrated for great wonders, the first year that was actually designated "The Year of Wonders," Annus Mirabilis, was 1666. The English poet, dramatist, and critic John Dryden (1631–1700) enshrined that year as "Annus Mirabilis" in his poem of the same name, which commemorated the English victory over the Dutch and the Great Fire of London. "Annus," meaning year, comes from the Latin root "ann," a source of many useful English words. The same root is also written "enn" in the middle of a word.

Below are ten words drawn from this root. After you look over the definitions and practice the pronunciations, complete the quizzes that follow.

1. per annum (p*r an"*m) by the year; yearly.
The firm promised to bill the additional interest charges per annum, the invoice to arrive every January.

2. annual (an" y» *l) of, for, or pertaining to a year; yearly.
The annual enrollment in the high school has increased sharply since the new housing was built.

3. anniversary (an'* vûr"s* re) the yearly recurrence of the date of a past event, especially the date of a wedding. From Latin "ann(i)," year + "vers(us)," turned + adjectival suffix "-ary."
For their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary, the happy couple decided to have dinner at the restaurant where they first met.

4. biennial (bi en"e *l) happening every two years; lasting for two years. From Latin "bi-," two + root "enn" + adjectival suffix "-ial."
My flowering fig tree has a biennial cycle; it blooms every two years.

5. triennial (tri en"e *l) occurring every three years; lasting three years. From Latin "tri-," three + root "enn" + adjectival suffix "-ial."
The university has set up a triennial cycle of promotions to review candidates for advancement.

6. decennial (di sen"e *l) of or for ten years; occurring every ten years. From Latin "dec(em)," ten + root "enn" + adjectival suffix "-ial."
Every ten years, the PTA holds its decennial meeting in the state capital.

7. centennial (sen ten"e *l) of or pertaining to a period of one hundred years; recurring once every hundred years. From Latin "cent(um)," hundred + root "enn" + adjectival suffix "-ial."
To celebrate the railroad's centennial anniversary, the town's historical society restored the rundown station so it looked exactly as it did when it was built a hundred years ago.

8. bicentennial (bi'sen ten"e *l) pertaining to or in honor of a two-hundredth anniversary; consisting of or lasting two hundred years.
To advertise its bicentennial festivities next year, the town has adopted the slogan "Celebrating Two Hundred Years of Progress."

9. millennium (mi len"e *m) a period of one thousand years. From Latin "mille," thousand + root "enn" + noun suffix "-ium."
Technology advances so rapidly now that we can scarcely imagine what life will be like in the next millennium.

10. annuity (* n»" i te, * ny»"-) a specified income payable each year or at stated intervals in consideration of a premium paid. From Latin "ann(uus)," yearly + noun suffix "-ity."
The annuity from her late husband's life-insurance policy was barely adequate for the poor widow's needs.

Matching Synonyms
Select the best definition for each numbered word. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. bicentennial                         a. every ten years _____
2. anniversary                          b. every two years _____
3. decennial                             c. every two hundred years _____
4. millennium                          d. every three years _____
5. per annum                           e. one thousand years _____
6. centennial                            f. fixed payment _____
7. annuity                                g. yearly recurrence of a date _____
8. triennial                               h. every hundred years _____
9. biennial                                i. by the year _____
10. annual                                j. yearly _____


True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.
T or F
1. annuity                                every two hundred years _____
2. bicentennial                         every other year _____
3. millennium                          one thousand years _____
4. annual                                  fixed amount of money _____
5. centennial                            every hundred years _____
6. triennial                               every three years _____
7. per annum                           by order _____
8. biennial                                every third year _____
9. decennial                             every thousand years _____
10. anniversary                        yearly event _____

 "Man of the World": anthropo

In the early twentieth century, Rudolph Steiner developed an esoteric system of knowledge he called "anthroposophy." Steiner developed the word from the Greek roots "anthropo," meaning man or human, and "soph," meaning wisdom. He defined his philosophy as "the knowledge of the spiritual human being . . . and of everything which the spirit man can perceive in the spiritual world."
We've taken several more words from "anthropo"; below are six of them. After you look over the definitions and practice the pronunciations, complete the quizzes that follow.

1. anthropoid (an"thr* poid') resembling humans.
The child was fascinated by the anthropoid ape on display in the natural history museum.

2. anthropomorphism (an'thr* p* môr"fiz*m) the ascription of human form or attributes to a being or thing not human, such as a deity.
To speak of the "cruel, crawling foam" is an example of anthropomorphism, for the sea is not cruel.

3. misanthrope (mis"*n throp', miz"-) a hater of humankind. From Greek "mis(o)," hate + "anthropos," man.
In Gulliver's Travels, the great misanthrope Jonathan Swift depicts human beings as monstrous savages.

4. philanthropy (fi lan"thr* pe) good works; affection for humankind, especially as manifested in donations, as of money, to needy persons or to socially useful purposes. From Greek "phil(o)," loving + "anthropos," man.
Thanks to the philanthropy of a wealthy patron, the new hospital wing was fully stocked with the latest equipment.

5. anthropology (an'thr* pol"* je) the science that deals with the origins, physical and cultural development, racial characteristics, and social customs and beliefs of humankind.
After the student completed the anthropology course, she visited some of the exotic cultures she had read about.

6. anthropocentric (an'thr* po sen"trik) regarding humans as the central fact of the universe.
Philosophy that views and interprets the universe in terms of human experience and values is anthropocentric.

Matching Synonyms

Select the best definition for each numbered word. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. anthropology              a. believing that humans are the center of the universe _____
2. philanthropy               b. one who dislikes people _____
3. anthropocentric          c. science of humankind's origins, beliefs, and customs
4. anthropoid                  d. personification of inanimate things _____
5. anthropomorphism     e. doing good for people _____
6. misanthrope                f. humanlike _____

True/False

In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. misanthrope                 cynic _____
2. philanthropy                goodwill to humankind _____
3. anthropomorphism       insecurity _____
4. anthropocentric            unselfish _____
5. anthropology               science of flowers _____
6. anthropoid                   resembling humans _____

"Know Thyself": gno

One of the fascinating things about the study of words is the discovery of close relationships between seemingly unrelated words. Because English draws its vocabulary from many sources, it often appropriates foreign words that ultimately derive from the same source as a native English word. A good example is our word "know," which has its exact equivalent in the Latin and Greek root "gno." Here are eight words from this root. First read through the pronunciations, definitions, and examples. Then complete the quizzes that follow.

1. cognizant (kog"n* z*nt, kon"*-) aware. From Latin "cognoscere," to come to know ("co-," together + "gnoscere," to know).
He was fully cognizant of the difficulty of the mission.

2. incognito (in'kog ne"to, in kog"ni to') with one's identity concealed, as under an assumed name. From Latin "incognitus," not known ("in-," not + "cognitus," known).
The officer from naval intelligence always traveled incognito to avoid any problems with security.

3. prognosticate (prog nos"ti kat') to forecast from present indications. From Greek "prognostikos," knowing beforehand ("pro-," before + "(gi)gno(skein)," to know).
The fortuneteller was able to prognosticate with the help of her tea leaves, crystal ball, and a good deal of inside information about her client.

4. diagnostician (di'*g no stish"*n) an expert in determining the nature of diseases. From Greek "diagnosis," determination (of a disease) ("dia-," through + "(gi)gno(skein)," to know).
The diagnostician was able to allay her patient's fears after the x-ray showed that he had suffered only a sprain, not a break.

5. cognoscenti (kon'y* shen"te, kog'n*-) well-informed persons, especially in a particular field, as in the arts. From Italian, ultimately derived from Latin "co-," together + "gnoscere," to know.
Although the exhibit had only been open one week, the cognoscenti were already proclaiming it the show of the decade.

6. gnostic (nos"tik) pertaining to knowledge, especially to the esoteric knowledge taught by an early Christian mystical sect. From Greek "gnostikos," knowing, from the root of "(gi) gno(skein)," to know.
The gnostic view that everything is knowable is opposed by the agnostic view.

7. ignoramus (ig'n* ra"m*s, -ram"*s) an extremely uninformed person. From the Latin word meaning we don't know, derived from "ignorare," to not know ("i(-n-)," not + the root of "gno(scere)," to come to know).
Only an ignoramus would insist that the earth is flat.

8. cognition (kog nish"*n) the act or process of knowing; perception. From Latin "cognitio," derived from "cognoscere," to come to know ("co-," together + "gnoscere," to know).
Cognition is impaired by narcotic drugs.

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. gnostic                        knowing _____
2. incognito                    disguised _____
3. prognosticate              curse _____
4. ignoramus                   ignorant person _____
5. cognoscenti                aromatic herb _____
6. cognition                    perception _____
7. diagnostician              expert mechanic _____
8. cognizant                    conscious _____

Defining Words

Define each of the following words.

1. ignoramus
2. cognoscenti
3. cognition
4. incognito
5. gnostic
6. prognosticate
7. diagnostician
8. cognizant

Lesson 8. "Rulers and Leaders": arch

In Christian theology, Michael is given the title of "archangel," principal angel and primary opponent of Satan and his horde. The Greek root "arch," meaning chief, first; rule or ruler, is the basis of a number of important and useful words.
Below are ten words drawn from this root. Read the definitions and practice the pronunciations.
Then study the sample sentences and see if you can use the words in sentences of your own.

1. archenemy (ärch"en"* me) a chief enemy; Satan.
In Christian theology, Satan is the archenemy.

2. patriarch (pa"tre ärk') the male head of a family or tribe. From Greek "patria," family + "- arches," head, chief.
When we gathered for Thanksgiving dinner, our great-grandfather, the family patriarch, always sat at the head of the table.

3. anarchy (an"*r ke) society without rule or government; lawlessness; disorder; confusion; chaos. From Greek "an-," not + "arch(os)," rule, ruler.
The king's assassination led to anarchy throughout the country.

4. hierarchy (hi"* rär'ke, hi"rär-) any system of persons or things ranked one above another; formerly, rule by church leaders, especially a high priest. From Greek "hieros," sacred + "arch(os)," rule, ruler.
The new office hierarchy ranks assistant vice presidents over directors.

5. monarchy (mon"*r ke) rule or government by a king, queen, emperor, or empress. From Greek "mon(o)-," one + "arch(os)," rule, ruler.
The French Revolution ended with the overthrow of the monarchy.

6. oligarchy (ol"i gär'ke) rule or government by a few persons. From Greek "oligos," few + "arch (os)," rule, ruler.
After the revolution, an oligarchy of army officers ruled the newly liberated country.

7. archbishop (ärch"bish"*p) a bishop of the highest rank; chief bishop.
The archbishop meets with the bishops from his area once a month to discuss their concerns.

8. matriarch (ma"tre ärk') the female head of a family or tribe. From Greek "matri-," mother + "- arches," head, chief.
The younger members of the clan usually seek out Grandma Josie, the family matriarch, for advice.

9. archetype (är"ki tip') the original pattern or model after which a thing is made; prototype. From Greek "arch(e)-," first, original + "typos," mold, type.
Odysseus is the archetype for James Joyce's Leopold Bloom in his novel Ulysses.

10. archaic (är ka"ik) marked by the characteristics of an earlier period; antiquated. From Greek "arch(aios)," old, early, first.
With the advent of the pocket calculator, the slide rule has become archaic.

Matching Synonyms
Select the best synonym for each of the italicized words. Circle your response.

1. the archbishop of Canterbury
a. oldest bishop b. youngest bishop c. highest-ranking bishop d. recently appointed bishop

2. a strong monarchy
a. government by a president              b. government by a consortium
c. government by the proletariat         d. government by a king or queen

3. an archaic device
a. old-fashioned          b. complicated             c. expensive d. useful

4. a wise patriarch
a. old woman              b. general                     c. revolutionary           d. male family head

5. the literary and social archetype
a. concern b. exhibition c. prototype d. major problem

6. a state of anarchy
a. hopefulness b. lawlessness c. strict order d. female control

7. a brutal archenemy
a. less powerful enemy b. chief enemy c. strict enemy d. Gabriel

8. the iron-handed oligarchy
a. government by few b. communist state c. democracy d. unstable government


9. a highly respected matriarch
a. confidant b. duke c. male leader d. female family head

10. the strict governmental hierarchy
a. leadership b. promotions c. system of ranking d. discipline

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the synonym or definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. patriarch                     male family head _____
2. archetype                    model _____
3. archenemy                  chief enemy _____
4. monarchy                   royal government _____
5. oligarchy                    chaos _____
6. archbishop                  church deacon _____
7. matriarch                    wife and mother _____
8. anarchy                       political lawlessness _____
9. hierarchy                    higher orders _____
10. archaic                      old-fashioned _____

Lesson 9. "To Life!": bio

In 1763, the Scottish writer James Boswell was first introduced to the acclaimed English poet, playwright, and dictionary-maker Samuel Johnson, setting the stage for the birth of modern biography. From 1772 until Johnson's death in 1784, the two men were closely associated, and
Boswell devoted much of his time to compiling detailed records of Johnson's activities and conversations. Seven years after Johnson's death, Boswell published his masterpiece, the Life of
Samuel Johnson. The word "biography," a written account of another person's life, comes from the Greek root "bio," meaning life, and "graphy," meaning writing. Besides life, "bio" can also mean living, living thing, or biological.
A number of other important words come from "bio." Here's a list of eight of them. Read through  the definitions and practice the pronunciations, then go on to the quizzes.

1. biodegradable (bi'o di gra"d* b*l) capable of being decomposed by living organisms, as paper and kitchen scraps are, as opposed to metals, glass, and plastics, which do not decay.
After a long campaign, the local residents persuaded the supermarkets to use biodegradable paper bags rather than nondegradable plastic.

2. biofeedback (bi'o fed"bak') a method of learning to modify one's own bodily or physiological functions with the aid of a visual or auditory display of one's brain waves, blood pressure, or muscle tension.
Desperate to quit smoking, she made an appointment to try biofeedback.

3. bioengineering (bi'o en'j* ner"ing) the application of engineering principles and techniques to problems in medicine and biology.
In the last few decades, bioengineering has made important progress in the design of artificial limbs.

4. biological clock (bi'* loj"i k*l klok") an innate system in people, animals, and organisms that causes regular cycles of function or behavior.
Recently the term "biological clock" has been used in reference to women in their late thirties and early forties who are concerned about having children before they are no longer able to reproduce.

5. bionic (bi on"ik) utilizing electronic devices and mechanical parts to assist humans in performing tasks, as by supplementing or duplicating parts of the body. Formed from "bio-" + "(electr)onic."
The scientist used a bionic arm to examine the radioactive material.

6. biopsy (bi"op se) the excision for diagnostic study of a piece of tissue from a living body. From "bio-" + Greek "opsis," sight, view.
The doctor took a biopsy from the patient's lung to determine the nature of the infection.

7. biota (bi o"t*) the plant and animal life of a region or period. From Greek "biote," life, from the root "bio."
The biota from the cliffside proved more useful for conservation than the biologists had initially suspected.

8. biohazard (bi"o haz'*rd) a disease-causing agent or organism, especially one produced by biological research; the health risk caused by such an agent or organism.
Will new technology like gene splicing produce heretofore unknown biohazards to threaten the world's population?

Definitions
Select the word that best fits the definition. Write your answer in the space provided.

_____ 1. the excision for diagnostic study of a piece of tissue from a living body.
a. biopsy                                  b. bioengineering                     c. incision

_____ 2. utilizing electronic devices and mechanical parts to assist humans in performing tasks.
a. biota                                    b. bioengineering                     c. bionic

_____ 3. capable of decaying and being absorbed by the environment.
a. biogenic                               b. biodegradable                     c. bionic

_____ 4. a method of learning to modify one's own bodily or physiological functions.
a. autobiography                     b. biofeedback                        c. biota

_____ 5. the application of engineering principles and techniques to problems in medicine and biology.
a. bioengineering                     b. autobiography                     c. biometry

_____ 6. an innate system in people, animals, and organisms that causes regular cycles of
function.
a. biota                                    b. bionic                                  c. biological clock

_____ 7. the plant and animal life of a region.
a. biota                                    b. autobiography                     c. biometry

_____ 8. an agent or organism that causes a health risk.
a. biopsy                                  b. biohazard                            c. biota

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. biopsy                            tissue sample _____
2. biota                              plants and animals _____
3. biological                       clock perpetual clock _____
4. biohazard                      health risk _____
5. biodegradable               capable of decomposing _____
6. bionic                            superhero _____
7. biofeedback                  culinary expertise _____
8. bioengineering               railroad supervision _____

Lesson 10. "Speak!": dict, dic

The earliest known dictionaries were found in the library of the Assyrian king at Nineveh. These clay tablets, inscribed with cuneiform writing dating from the seventh century B.C., provide important clues to our understanding of Mesopotamian culture. The first English dictionary did not appear until 1440. Compiled by the Dominican monk Galfridus Grammaticus, the Storehouse for Children or Clerics, as the title translates, consists of Latin definitions of 10,000 English words.

The word "dictionary" was first used in English in 1526, in reference to a Latin dictionary by Peter Berchorius.

This was followed by a Latin-English dictionary published by Sir Thomas Elyot in 1538.

All these early efforts confined themselves to uncommon words and phrases not generally known or understood, because the daily language was not supposed to require explanation.

Today we understand the word "dictionary" to mean a book containing a selection of the words of a language, usually arranged alphabetically, giving information about their meanings, pronunciations, etymologies, etc.; a lexicon.

 The word comes from the Latin root "dictio," taken from "dicere," meaning to say, state, declare, speak.

This root has given us scores of important English words. Below are eight for you to examine. After you read through their pronunciations and definitions, complete the self-tests.

1. malediction (mal'i dik"sh*n) a curse or the utterance of a curse. From Latin "male-," evil + "dictio," speech, word.
After the witch delivered her malediction, the princess fell into a swoon.

2. abdication (ab'di ka"sh*n) the renunciation or relinquishment of something such as a throne, right, power, or claim, especially when formal.
Following the abdication of Edward VIII for the woman he loved, his brother George VI assumed the throne of England.

3. benediction (ben'i dik"sh*n) the invocation of a blessing. From Latin "bene-," well, good + "dictio," speech, word.
The chaplain delivered a benediction at the end of the service.

4. edict (e"dikt) a decree issued by a sovereign or other authority; an authoritative proclamation or command
Herod's edict ordered the massacre of male infants throughout his realm.

5. predicate (pred"i kat') to proclaim, declare, or affirm; base or found.
Your acceptance into the training program is predicated upon a successful personal interview.

6. jurisdiction (j»r'is dik"sh*n) the right, power, or authority to administer justice.
The mayor's jurisdiction extends only to the area of the village itself; outside its limits, the jurisdiction passes to the town board.

7. dictum (dik"t*m) an authoritative pronouncement; saying or maxim.
The firm issued a dictum stating that smoking was forbidden on the premises.

8. predictive (pri dik"tiv) indicating the future or future conditions; predicting.
Although the day was clear and balmy, the brisk wind was predictive of the approaching cold snap.

Matching Synonyms
Match each of the following numbered words with its closest synonym. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. predictive                a. assert _____
2. edict                        b. maxim _____
3. predicate                 c. indicating the future _____
4. benediction             d. authority _____
5. abdication               e. decree _____
6. malediction             f. imprecation, curse _____
7. dictum                     g. blessing _____
8. jurisdiction              h. renunciation _____

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. predictive                   indicative of the future _____
2. predicate                    declare _____
3. edict                           decree _____
4. jurisdiction                 authority _____
5. dictum                        blessing _____
6. abdication                  assumption _____
7. malediction                machismo _____
8. benediction                opening services _____

Lesson 11. "Lead On, Macduff!": duc, duct

Aqueducts, artificial channels built to transport water, were used in ancient Mesopotamia, but the ones used to supply water to ancient Rome are the most famous.

Nine aqueducts were built in all; eventually they provided Rome with about thirty-eight million gallons of water daily.

Parts of several are still in use, supplying water to fountains in Rome. The word "aqueduct" comes from the Latin "aqua," meaning water, and "ductus," meaning a leading or drawing off.

A great number of powerful words are derived from the "duc, duct" root. Here are nine such words. Read through the definitions and practice the pronunciations. Try to use each word in a sentence of your own. Finally, work through the two self-tests at the end of the lesson to help fix the words in your memory.

1. induce (in d»s", -dy»s") to influence or persuade, as to some action.
Try to induce her to stay at least a few hours longer.

2. misconduct (mis kon"dukt) improper conduct or behavior.
Such repeated misconduct will result in a reprimand, if not an outright dismissal.

3. abduct (ab dukt") to carry (a person) off or lead (a person) away illegally; kidnap.
Jason's mother was so fearful that he might be abducted by a stranger that she refused even to let him walk to school alone.

4. deduce (di d»s", -dy»s") to derive as a conclusion from something known or assumed. The detective was able to deduce from the facts gathered thus far that the murder took place in the early hours of the morning.

5. viaduct (vi"* dukt') a bridge for carrying a road or railroad over a valley, gorge, or the like, consisting of a number of short spans; overpass.
The city government commissioned a firm of civil engineers to explore the possibility of building a viaduct over the river.

6. reductive (ri duk"tiv) pertaining to or producing a smaller size. From Latin "reduct-, reducere," to lead back.
The new electronic copier had reductive and enlargement capabilities.

7. seduce (si d»s", -dy»s") to lead astray, as from duty or rectitude.
He was seduced by the prospect of gain.

8. traduce (tr* d»s", -dy»s") to speak maliciously and falsely of; slander. From Latin "traducere," to transfer, lead across.
To traduce someone's character can do permanent harm to his or her reputation.

9. ductile (duk"til) pliable or yielding.
The new plastic is very ductile and can be molded into many forms.

Matching Synonyms
Match each of the numbered words with the closest synonym. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. seduce                        a. overpass _____
2. viaduct                       b. shrinking _____
3. induce                        c. kidnap _____
4. reductive                    d. bad behavior _____
5. traduce                       e. infer _____
6. abduct                        f. entice _____
7. misconduct                 g. pliable _____
8. deduce                       h. defame _____
9. ductile                        i. persuade _____

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. deduce              infer _____
2. ductile               pliable _____
3. seduce               lead astray _____
4. reductive           magnifying _____
5. traduce              malign _____
6. viaduct              overpass _____
7. abduct               restore _____
8. misconduct        improper behavior _____
9. induce               persuade _____

Lesson 12. "Just the Facts, Ma'am": fac, fact, fect

We have formed a great many important and useful words from the Latin "facere," to make or do.

A "facsimile," for example, derives from the Latin phrase "fac simile," meaning to make similar, and has come to mean an exact copy.

Since facsimile copiers and transmitters have become very common, "facsimile" is now generally shortened and changed in spelling to "fax."

Many potent words are derived from the "fac, fact, fect" root. Eight such words follow. Learn them by completing this lesson; then try to use the root to help you figure out other "fac, fact" words you encounter.

1. factious (fak"sh*s) given to or marked by discord; dissenting. From Latin "factio," act of doing or of making connections; group or clique, derived from "facere," to do or make.
Factious groups threatened to break up the alliance.

2. factotum (fak to"t*m) a person employed to do all kinds of work, as a personal secretary or the chief servant of a household.
Jeeves was the model of a gentleman's gentleman—the indispensable factotum of the frivolous Bertie Wooster.

3. factitious (fak tish"*s) made artificially; contrived.
The report was merely a factitious account, not factual at all.

4. facile (fas"il) moving or acting with ease; fluent. From Latin "facilis," easy to do, derived from "facere," to do.
With his facile mind, he often thought of startlingly original solutions to old problems.

5. artifact (är"t* fakt') any object made by human skill or art. From the Latin phrase "arte factum," (something) made with skill.
The archaeologists dug up many artifacts from the ancient Indian culture.

6. facsimile (fak sim"* le) an exact copy, as of a book, painting, or manuscript; a method of transmitting typed or printed material by means of radio or telegraph.
If they could not obtain a facsimile of the document by noon, the deal would fall through.

7. putrefaction (py»'tr* fak"sh*n) the decomposition of organic matter by bacteria and fungi. From Latin "putrere," to rot + "factio," act of doing.
Once the putrefaction of the compost pile was complete, the gardener used the rotted material to enrich the soil.

8. prefect (pre"fekt) a person appointed to any of various positions of command, authority, or superintendence. From Latin "praefectus," formed from "prae," ahead, surpassing + "fectus," doing (from "facere," to do).
The prefect was appointed to a term of three years.

Definitions
Select the word that best fits the definition. Write your answer in the space provided.
_____ 1. the decomposition of organic matter by bacteria and fungi
a. chemical analysis           b. hypothermia                  c. putrefaction

_____ 2. not natural; artificial
a. factious                          b. facile                             c. factitious

_____ 3. an exact copy, as of a book, painting, or manuscript
a. factoid                           b. facsimile                        c. putrefaction

_____ 4. given to dissension or strife
a. facile                              b. factious                         c. obsequious

_____ 5. an object made by humans
a. artifact                           b. factotum                        c. factious

_____ 6. a person employed to do all kinds of work
a. facile                              b. factotum                        c. faculty

_____ 7. moving or acting easily
a. putrefaction                   b. prefect                           c. facile

_____ 8. someone appointed to any of various positions of command, authority, or
superintendence
a. prefect                           b. facile                             c. factotum


True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. factitious                    contrived _____
2. factotum                     carrier _____
3. putrefaction                rotting _____
4. artifact                        machinery _____
5. facsimile                     instant transmission _____
6. prefect                        administrator _____
7. factious                      dissenting _____
8. facile                          fluent _____

Lesson 13. "Always Faithful": feder, fid, fide

"Semper fidelis" is Latin for always faithful. The phrase is the motto of the United States Marine Corps and the title of an 1888 march by John Philip Sousa. This phrase, as with a number of useful words, comes from the Latin root "fid, fide," meaning trust, faith.

Below are seven words derived from this root. Read through the meanings, practice the pronunciations, and complete the self-tests that follow to help fix the words in your memory.

1. fidelity (fi del"i te) faithfulness; loyalty.
Dogs are legendary for their fidelity to their masters.

2. fiduciary (fi d»"she er'e, -dy»"-) a person to whom property or power is entrusted for the benefit of another; trustee. From Latin "fiducia," trust, related to "fidere," to trust.
The bank's fiduciary administers the children's trust funds.

3. infidel (in"fi dl, -del') a person who does not accept a particular religious faith. From Latin "in," not + "fidelis," faithful (from "fide," faith).
The ayatollah condemned Salman Rushdie as an infidel.

4. perfidious (p*r fid"e *s) deliberately faithless; treacherous. From Latin "perfidia" ("per-," through + "fide," faith).
The perfidious lover missed no opportunity to be unfaithful.

5. confide (k*n fid") to entrust one's secrets to another. From Latin "confidere" ("con-," with + "fidere," to trust).
The two sisters confided in each other.

6. bona fide (bo"n* fid', bon"*) genuine; real; in good faith.
To their great astonishment, the offer of a free vacation was bona fide.

7. affidavit (af'i da"vit) a written declaration upon oath made before an authorized official. From a Medieval Latin word meaning (he) has declared on oath, from Latin "affidare," to pledge on faith.
In the affidavit, they swore they had not been involved in the accident.

Matching Synonyms
Match each of the following numbered words with its closest synonym. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. confide                    a. faithfulness _____
2. fidelity                    b. heathen _____
3. bona fide                 c. declaration _____
4. infidel                      d. entrust _____
5. affidavit                  e. trustee _____
6. perfidious                f. genuine _____
7. fiduciary                  g. faithless _____

Matching Synonyms
Select the best synonym for each numbered word. Write your answer in the space provided.
_____ 1. bona fide
a. unauthorized           b. deboned                  c. real                           d. well-trained

_____ 2. perfidious
a. irreligious                 b. content                    c. loyal                         d. treacherous

_____ 3. fidelity
a. loyalty                     b. alliance                    c. great affection         d. random motion

_____ 4. fiduciary
a. bank teller                b. trustee                     c. insurance                 d. default

_____ 5. infidel
a. warrior                     b. intransigent             c. heathen                    d. outsider

_____ 6. affidavit
a. affright                    b. declaration              c. loyalty                     d. betrothal

_____ 7. confide
a. combine                   b. recline                      c. entrust                     d. convert


Lesson 14. "Flow Gently, Sweet Afton": flu

In 1991, the upper fifth of working Americans took home more money than the other four-fifths put together—the highest proportion of wealthy people since the end of World War II.

One word to describe such wealthy people is "affluent," prosperous. The word comes from the Latin root "fluere," meaning to flow. As a river would flow freely, so the money of the affluent flows easily.

Seven of the most useful and important words formed from the "flu" root follow. Study the definitions and read through the pronunciations. Then do the self-tests.

1. flume (fl»m) a deep, narrow channel containing a mountain stream or torrent; an amusement park ride through a water-filled chute or slide.
The adults steadfastly refused to try the log flume ride, but the children enjoyed it thoroughly.

2. confluence (kon"fl» *ns) a flowing together of two or more streams; their place of junction.
The confluence of the rivers is marked by a strong current.

3. fluent (fl»"*nt) spoken or written effortlessly; easy; graceful; flowing.
Jennifer was such a fluent speaker that she was in great demand as a lecturer.

4. fluctuation (fluk'ch» a"sh*n) continual change from one course, condition, etc., to another.
The fluctuation in temperature was astonishing, considering it was still only February.

5. fluvial (fl»"ve *l) of or pertaining to a river; produced by or found in a river.
The contours of the riverbank were altered over the years by fluvial deposits.

6. influx (in"fluks') a flowing in.
The unexpected influx of refugees severely strained the community's resources.

7. flux (fluks) a flowing or flow; continuous change.
His political views are in constant flux.

True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. fluctuation               change _____
2. fluvial                      deep crevasse _____
3. fluent                       flowing _____
4. flux                          flow _____
5. influx                       egress _____
6. confluence               diversion _____
7. flume                       feather _____


Matching Synonyms
Select the best definition for each numbered word. Write your answer in the space provided.
1. flux                             a. gorge _____
2. confluence                  b. flowing easily _____
3. flume                          c. continual shift _____
4. fluctuation                  d. an inflow _____
5. fluent                          e. a flow _____
6. influx                          f. riverine _____
7. fluvial                         g. convergence _____


Lesson 15. "In the Beginning": gen

Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, tells of the beginning of the world. The English word "genesis" is taken from the Greek word for origin or source.

From the root "gen," meaning beget, bear, kind, or race, a number of powerful vocabulary builders has evolved.

Here are ten "gen" words. Study the definitions and practice the pronunciations to help you learn the words.

To accustom yourself to using these new terms in your daily speech and writing, work through the two self-tests at the end of the lesson.

1. gene (jen) the unit of heredity in the chromosomes that controls the development of inherited traits. From Greek "-genes," born, begotten.
The gene for color blindness is linked to the Y chromosome.

2. engender (en jen"d*r) to produce, cause, or give rise to.
Hatred engenders violence.

3. gentility (jen til"i te) good breeding or refinement.
Her obvious gentility marked her as a member of polite society.

4. gentry (jen"tre) wellborn and well-bred people; in England, the class under the nobility.
In former times, the gentry lived on large estates with grand houses, lush grounds, and many servants.

5. genus (je"n*s) the major subdivision of a family or subfamily in the classification of plants and animals, usually consisting of more than one species.
The biologist assigned the newly discovered plant to the appropriate genus.

6. genial (jen"y*l, je"ne *l) cordial; favorable for life, growth, or comfort.
Under the genial conditions in the greenhouse, the plants grew and flourished.

7. congenital (k*n jen"i tl) existing at or from one's birth.
The child's congenital defect was easily corrected by surgery.

8. eugenics (y» jen"iks) the science of improving the qualities of a breed or species, especially the human race, by the careful selection of parents.
Through eugenics, scientists hope to engineer a superior race of human beings.

9. genealogy (je'ne ol"* je) a record or account of the ancestry and descent of a person, family, group, etc.; the study of family ancestries.
Genealogy shows that Franklin Delano Roosevelt was a cousin of Winston Churchill.

10. congenial (k*n jen"y*l) agreeable or pleasant; suited or adapted in disposition;
compatible.
The student enjoyed the congenial atmosphere of the library.

Definitions

Select the word that best fits the definition. Write your answer in the space provided.

_____ 1. the major subdivision of a family or subfamily in the classification of plants and
animals.
a. gene                         b. genus                       c. genial                       d. gentry

_____ 2. suited or adapted in disposition; agreeable.
a. genial                       b. congenital                c. genealogy                d. congenial

_____ 3. wellborn and well-bred people.
a. gene                         b. gentry                      c. nobility                    d. gentility

_____ 4. the science of improving the qualities of a breed or species.
a. genetics                   b. gentry                      c. genealogy                d. eugenics

_____ 5. the unit of heredity transmitted in the chromosome.
a. ancestry                   b. DNA                       c. gene                         d. genus

_____ 6. cordial; favorable for life, growth, or comfort.
a. genial                       b. gentry                      c. eugenics                   d. hospitality

_____ 7. to produce, cause, or give rise to.
a. gentility                   b. engender                 c. genealogy                d. genial

_____ 8. a record or account of the ancestry of a person, family, group, etc.
a. gene                         b. genealogy                c. glibness                    d. gentry

_____ 9. good breeding or refinement.
a. reductive                 b. genus                       c. gentility                   d. eugenics

_____ 10. existing at or from one's birth.
a. congenital                b. genus                       c. congenial                 d. gene


True/False
In the space provided, write T if the definition of the numbered word is true or F if it is false.

T or F

1. gentry                         peasants _____
2. congenital                   incurable _____
3. genial                          debased _____
4. gene                            genetic material _____
5. eugenics                     matricide _____
6. gentility                      viciousness _____
7. genealogy                   family history _____
8. congenial                    pleasant _____
9. genus                          subdivision _____
10. engender                  cease _____

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