GRE Vocabulary - Advanced Contextual Mastery

Front

Aberration

Back

A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected, typically one that is unwelcome. *Example:* The scientist viewed the outlier data as a temporary aberration rather than a flaw in the theory. *Etymology:* Latin *aberre* (to wander away).

Front

Cacophony

Back

A harsh, discordant mixture of sounds. *Example:* The cacophony of car horns and shouting street vendors made it impossible to concentrate. *Etymology:* Greek *kakos* (bad) + *phone* (sound).

Front

Capricious

Back

Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior; impulsive. *Example:* The capricious nature of the stock market makes long-term prediction nearly impossible. *Etymology:* Italian *capriccio* (shiver, sudden start).

Front

Deleterious

Back

Causing harm or damage. *Example:* Smog has a deleterious effect on respiratory health, particularly in children. *Etymology:* Greek *deleterios* (noxious), from *deletho* (I destroy).

Front

Enervate

Back

To cause to feel drained of energy or vitality; weaken. *Example:* The intense humidity and relentless sun served to enervate the marathon runners. *Etymology:* Latin *e-* (out) + *nervare* (to sinew, tie nerves).