SAT word list
2,533 words · page 5 of 9
- indict verb to formally accuse someone of a crime, typically by a grand jury
- indifference noun a lack of interest, concern, or emotion toward something;
- indifferent adjective showing no interest, concern, or emotion; unresponsive to stimuli or circumstances
- indigenous adjective originating in or native to a particular place or group; not introduced from elsewhere
- indignant adjective feeling or showing strong anger or outrage due to perceived injustice or unfair treatment
- indirect adjective not direct; expressed or conveyed through intermediaries or circumlocution rather than openly or plainly
- indiscretion noun a failure to exercise caution or judgment, resulting in an inappropriate or unauthorized action or disclosure
- indispensable adjective essential or necessary; without which something cannot function or succeed
- individualism noun the belief in and advocacy of individual rights, autonomy, and independence from societal or collective norms
- individualist noun a person who values individuality and independence, often rejecting conformity or collective norms
- individualistic adjective favoring individual rights, autonomy, or independence over collective norms or group decisions
- individuality noun the quality or state of being unique or distinct from others; the characteristic that makes a person or thing different and self-identified
- indolent adjective lacking energy or enthusiasm; slow to act or move; showing a tendency to remain inactive or lazy
- indomitable adjective unyielding or unbreakable in the face of adversity or difficulty
- induce verb to cause or bring about, especially in a deliberate or indirect way
- induction noun the process of deriving a general principle from specific observations or examples
- indulgent adjective showing a willingness to allow or permit someone to enjoy something that is typically considered excessive or inappropriate
- industrialization noun the process by which a society transitions from an agrarian or rural economy to one based on large-scale industrial production and manufacturing.
- ineffable adjective too profound, intense, or sublime to be expressed in words
- inept adjective lacking skill or ability; incompetent
- inequality noun the state or condition of being unequal; a lack of balance or fairness in distribution or treatment
- inequity noun the state or condition of being unequal or unfair, especially in rights, opportunities, or treatment
- inert adjective not responsive to stimuli; lacking activity or reactivity
- inevitability noun the quality or state of being unavoidable or certain to occur
- inevitable adjective something that cannot be avoided or prevented; certain to happen
- inexorable adjective unyielding or unstoppable; unable to be resisted or reversed
- infallible adjective not liable to fail or make mistakes; absolutely correct or reliable
- infamous adjective well-known for something negative or disgraceful
- infect verb to introduce a disease-causing agent into a living organism, causing illness; to influence or corrupt in a negative way
- infectious adjective able to spread easily from person to person or from one environment to another, especially in a contagious or persuasive way
- infer verb to conclude or deduce something about a situation or fact from indirect evidence or reasoning
- inference noun a logical conclusion drawn from evidence or reasoning rather than from direct observation
- inferior adjective of lower quality, value, or status; not as good as another; lacking in excellence or superiority
- infinite adjective without end or limit; boundless
- infinity noun an unbounded quantity or extent; a state beyond limitation or end
- inflexible adjective refusing to change or adapt; rigid in principle or behavior
- influential adjective having the power to affect or shape the thoughts, actions, or decisions of others
- informal adjective not formal in style, structure, or tone; lacking official or rigid conventions
- infrastructure noun the fundamental physical and organizational structures and systems underlying a society or organization, such as roads, bridges, power grids, and communication networks.
- ingenious adjective showing great originality and cleverness in thought or design
- ingenuous adjective honest and sincere, often without awareness of deception or hypocrisy
- ingrained adjective deeply rooted or established in a person's character or behavior over time, often through repeated exposure or experience
- inherent adjective existing as a natural or essential part of something; not acquired or added later
- inhibit verb to prevent or restrict the action, development, or expression of something, especially a physical or mental process
- inhibition noun a mental or emotional restraint that prevents someone from acting, speaking, or expressing themselves freely
- inimical adjective hostile or detrimental to something; causing harm or opposition
- iniquity noun the state or quality of being unjust or morally wrong; a serious moral wrong or wrongdoing
- initially conjunctive adverb At the beginning; originally.
- initiate verb to begin or start something formally or deliberately
- initiation noun the act or process of beginning something, especially a formal or ritualistic entry into a group, organization, or system
- initiative noun the quality or action of taking the first step or making a proactive effort to achieve a goal or solve a problem
- inject verb to introduce something, especially a substance or idea, into a system, body, or process in a deliberate and often forceful manner
- injection noun the act of introducing a substance into the body, typically via a needle or syringe
- injure verb to cause physical or emotional harm or damage to someone or something
- innate adjective existing or developed from within, inherent, not learned or acquired through experience
- innocuous adjective causing no harm or danger; harmless or non-threatening
- innovate verb to introduce a new idea, method, or product; to create something original and previously unseen
- innovation noun the introduction of a new idea, method, or device
- innovative adjective showing originality and the ability to introduce new ideas, methods, or products
- innuendo noun an implied or indirect suggestion, often with a subtle or sarcastic tone, intended to convey a meaning without stating it explicitly
- input noun a quantity of data, energy, or information introduced into a system or process
- inquisitive adjective curious and eager to learn or understand; showing a strong desire to know or investigate
- insatiable adjective unable to be satisfied; ever craving more
- inscrutable adjective unable to be understood or explained; mysterious or obscure in nature
- insect noun a small arthropod with six legs, a hard exoskeleton, and often a body divided into head, thorax, and abdomen; typically with antennae and wings.
- insecurity noun a state of lacking confidence or feeling uncertain about oneself or one's abilities
- insert verb to place something into a space or sequence, especially to add it between existing elements or to introduce it into a system or document
- insertion noun the act or process of inserting something into a place or structure; also, a specific instance of such an act
- insidious adjective subtly and gradually developing, often without immediate recognition, causing harm or deterioration over time
- insight noun a clear and often sudden understanding of a situation or principle, especially one that reveals deeper truths or connections
- insightful adjective showing a deep understanding or perception of a situation, often through clear, intelligent observation or analysis
- insinuate verb to suggest or imply something indirectly, often in a subtle or misleading way
- insipid adjective lacking flavor, interest, or appeal; dull or tasteless
- insolent adjective showing a lack of respect or obedience, especially in a rude or defiant manner
- inspect verb to examine carefully and thoroughly, often to detect flaws, defects, or irregularities
- inspection noun a careful examination or review, especially to detect flaws, defects, or compliance with standards
- instability noun a state of lack of stability or consistency; a condition of being unsteady or prone to change
- instance noun a particular case or occurrence of something
- instead conjunctive adverb Instead signals a replacement or substitution, indicating that one option or action is chosen in place of another.
- instigate verb to initiate or provoke, especially in a way that sets off an action or conflict
- instinct noun an innate, automatic response or behavior that is present from birth and does not require learning or reasoning
- institution noun an established organization or system that operates according to formal rules and traditions, often with long-standing social or cultural significance
- institutional adjective relating to or characteristic of an institution, such as a school, hospital, or government body; formal, established, and often rigid in structure or procedure.
- instruct verb to give formal guidance or directions to someone, often in a formal or authoritative capacity
- instruction noun a set of detailed directions or guidance given to someone for the purpose of performing a task or understanding a procedure
- instructive adjective providing information or guidance that helps to teach or improve understanding or skill
- insularity noun the state or quality of being isolated or self-contained, especially in thought, culture, or political affairs, with little or no interaction with external influences.
- insurgent adjective rebellious or defiant, especially in opposition to established authority or government
- insurmountable adjective cannot be overcome or conquered; impossible to surpass or defeat
- intangible adjective not capable of being perceived by the senses or measured; existing only in thought or concept
- integral adjective essential or fundamental; forming a necessary part of a whole
- integrate verb to combine or bring together different elements so that they function as a unified whole
- integration noun the process of combining or unifying different elements into a cohesive whole
- integrity noun the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; adherence to a set of ethical standards
- intelligent adjective showing or possessing the ability to understand, learn, and reason effectively
- intelligible adjective capable of being understood or comprehended; clear and easy to interpret
- intemperate adjective excessively lacking in self-control; showing uncontrolled or excessive emotion or behavior
- intense adjective very strong or powerful in degree, quality, or effect
- intensification noun the process or state of becoming stronger, more intense, or more pronounced over time
- intensity noun the quality or degree of strength, power, or force in an emotion, action, or situation
- intensive adjective characterized by great intensity or strength; involving concentrated effort or duration
- interact verb to engage in mutual or reciprocal communication or behavior with another entity, often involving exchange or response
- interaction noun the process or exchange of ideas, actions, or influences between individuals or entities
- interactive adjective engaging or involving participants in a two-way exchange or dynamic process
- interface noun a point of connection or interaction between two systems, organisms, or entities
- interfere verb to interfere is to intervene in a process or situation in a way that disrupts or obstructs its natural course or intended development.
- interject verb to insert a comment or remark suddenly or unexpectedly into a conversation or discourse
- intermediate adjective lying between two extremes; not at either end of a scale or range
- interminable adjective endless; without a definite end
- internalize verb to absorb or incorporate into one's own beliefs, values, or understanding so that they become part of one's inner self
- interpret verb to understand and explain the meaning of something, especially abstract or complex content, such as a text, gesture, or signal
- interpretation noun the act of interpreting or understanding the meaning of something, especially a text, statement, or behavior
- interpretive adjective relating to interpretation or the act of interpreting; concerned with understanding or explaining the meaning of something, especially in a creative or subjective way.
- interrupt verb to stop or interfere with the flow of something, especially a conversation, process, or activity, temporarily or abruptly
- interval noun a period of time between two events or occurrences
- intervene verb to step in between two parties or forces to stop a conflict, prevent a negative outcome, or influence a situation directly
- intervention noun a deliberate action taken to influence, stop, or redirect a situation, especially to prevent harm or promote change
- interviewer noun a person who conducts an interview, typically to gather information or assess qualifications
- intractable adjective difficult to control, manage, or resolve; stubbornly resistant to change or treatment
- intransigent adjective refusing to yield or compromise, especially in the face of pressure or disagreement
- intrepid adjective brave and fearless, especially in the face of danger or difficulty
- intricate adjective having many complex and interwoven parts or details; complicated in structure or design
- intrinsic adjective existing within something itself; not external or derived from outside sources
- intuitive adjective capable of being understood or perceived without the need for conscious reasoning or explicit knowledge
- inundate verb to flood or overwhelm with a large amount of something, especially in a sudden or overwhelming manner
- invade verb to enter or take control of a place, territory, or system without permission or consent, often with force or aggression
- invalidate verb to make something untrue or void by showing it to be false or flawed
- invasion noun a sudden and often violent entry or attack into a place, usually with the intent to conquer or control
- invective noun harsh, abusive language or criticism, especially directed at a person or group
- inversion noun a reversal or turning upside down of a normal order, state, or structure
- invest verb to place money or resources into a venture with the expectation of gaining a return or benefit over time
- investigate verb to examine or study carefully in order to discover facts or truths
- investigative adjective relating to or characterized by careful examination or inquiry into a subject, especially to uncover facts or truths.
- inveterate adjective existing or characterized by long-standing, deeply rooted habits or tendencies, often negative or persistent
- invigorate verb to restore or increase energy, strength, or vitality to something or someone
- invisibility noun the state or quality of being invisible; the absence of visibility or detectability
- invisible adjective not visible to the eye; not detectable by sight
- invoke verb to call upon or summon, especially for a purpose or in support of an argument or action
- involve verb to include or require as a necessary part; to bring into a situation or process
- involvement noun the state of being involved in a particular activity, situation, or process; active participation
- irascible adjective prone to anger or irritation; easily provoked
- ironic adjective contradicting expectations or circumstances in a way that is often amusing or strikingly unexpected
- irrational adjective not based on reason or logic; lacking rationality or sound judgment
- irreconcilable adjective cannot be resolved or made compatible; fundamentally opposed or in conflict
- irrefutable adjective cannot be contradicted or disproven; absolutely proven or undeniable
- irrelevance noun the state or quality of being irrelevant; something that has no connection or importance to a subject or situation
- irrelevant adjective not related to or of no importance to a particular situation or discussion
- irreverent adjective showing a lack of respect or due seriousness; disrespectful or dismissive of sacred, serious, or formal matters
- irreversible adjective cannot be reversed or undone; permanent
- irrigation noun the artificial application of water to soil to support plant growth, especially in arid regions.
- isolate verb to separate from others or from a group, especially to prevent contact or influence
- isolation noun the state of being separated from others, especially socially or physically
- isolationism noun a policy of avoiding international involvement or alliances, especially by refusing to participate in global political, economic, or military affairs.
- item noun a single thing or element, especially one of a list or collection
- itinerant adjective traveling from place to place without a fixed residence or destination
- jaded adjective worn out or made cynical by overexposure to repeated experiences or stimuli
- jargon noun Technical or specialized language used within a particular profession or field, often incomprehensible to outsiders.
- jazz noun a lively, energetic, and spirited atmosphere or mood, often associated with enthusiasm, excitement, or a sense of fun
- jeopardize verb to put at risk or in danger, especially by making a mistake or taking a harmful action
- jocular adjective characterized by or showing a light, playful, or humorous tone
- judicious adjective showing sound judgment; prudent and well-considered in decision-making
- juncture noun a critical point or moment in time when a decision or change must be made
- justifiable adjective capable of being justified or defended on reasonable grounds
- justification noun a reason or explanation given to support or defend a decision, action, or belief
- justify verb to provide a reasonable explanation or reason for something, especially to defend or make acceptable an action, decision, or belief
- juxtapose verb to place two or more things side by side for comparison or contrast
- juxtaposition noun the placement of two contrasting elements side by side to highlight their differences or similarities
- keen adjective having a strong interest, enthusiasm, or sharpness; acute or intense
- kindle verb to cause to begin to burn or to ignite, especially slowly or gently
- label noun or verb a noun or verb meaning a name or designation assigned to something; to assign a name or category to something
- labored adjective forced, strained, and lacking ease; especially in effort or expression, as in speech or movement
- laceration noun a severe cut or tear, especially one that causes significant bleeding or tissue damage
- laconic adjective using few words; terse and to the point
- lament verb to express sorrow or regret, especially over a loss or misfortune, often in a formal or emotional way
- languid adjective lacking energy or vigor; slow-moving or weak; showing a lack of enthusiasm or animation
- languish verb to suffer or exist in a state of weakness, decline, or unfulfilled desire, especially due to lack of stimulation or nourishment
- largess noun generous giving, especially of money or favors, often in a charitable or official capacity
- latent adjective existing or present but not yet active or visible; hidden or suppressed
- lateral adjective relating to the side or to the side of something; not central or direct; extending sideways or outward from a central point.
- laudable adjective worthy of praise or commendation; deserving of approval
- laudatory adjective expressing praise or approval
- lavish adjective extremely generous or abundant, often in a way that is extravagant or excessive
- lax adjective relaxed or lacking in strictness or discipline; not rigorous or strict
- layer noun a distinct portion or section of something, especially one that is situated beneath or above another in a sequence or structure
- layout noun the arrangement or plan of elements in a space or structure, especially as designed for function or aesthetics
- lecture noun a formal, often lengthy discourse or presentation on a particular subject, typically delivered by an expert or educator
- lecturer noun a person who delivers lectures, typically in an academic or educational setting
- legality noun the quality or state of being legal; the validity of a rule, action, or law under established legal standards
- legislate verb to create or pass laws officially, typically by a legislative body
- legislation noun the process or body of laws enacted by a legislative body
- legislative adjective relating to the process or power of making laws, especially by a legislative body such as a parliament or congress
- legitimate adjective being rightful, valid, or justified by law, reason, or principle
- leisure noun free time engaged in enjoyable or relaxing activities, typically not required for work or duty
- lenient adjective showing tolerance or forgiveness; not strict or severe
- lethargic adjective lacking energy or enthusiasm; slow-moving or inactive due to fatigue or apathy
- lever noun a rigid bar that rotates around a fixed point to apply force or create mechanical advantage
- levity noun the quality of lightness or frivolity; a lack of seriousness
- levy verb to impose or collect (a tax, fee, or charge) officially or forcibly
- liability noun a financial or legal obligation or responsibility that one must fulfill, often resulting in a potential loss or burden
- liable adjective legally responsible; likely to suffer a particular outcome
- liaison noun an official connection or channel of communication between two or more parties, especially in military, diplomatic, or organizational contexts
- liberalism noun a political and social philosophy that advocates for individual freedoms, equality, and government intervention to promote social justice and civil rights.
- liberalization noun the process or act of making something more liberal, especially in terms of policies, regulations, or rights
- liberate verb to free from restraint, oppression, or control
- liberation noun the act or state of being freed from oppression, constraint, or control
- licence noun official permission or authorization to do something, especially a legally granted right to operate or engage in an activity
- lifestyle noun the way of living of a person or group, including habits, values, and daily routines
- lifetime noun the entire duration of a person's life, from birth to death
- likelihood noun the probability or chance that something will happen or be true
- likewise conjunctive adverb Likewise signals a logical parallelism between two or more ideas, indicating that what is true in one case is also true in another, similar case. It functions to extend a previous claim or observation to a parallel situation, establishing equivalence in meaning or outcome without repetition. Use it when introducing a second instance where the same principle, result, or condition applies, especially in formal or analytical writing.
- limb noun a part of the body that extends from the trunk or main structure, such as an arm or leg; also, a branch or extension of a larger entity or system
- linear adjective arranged in a straight line or following a direct, unbroken sequence without deviation or branching
- linguistic adjective relating to language or the study of language
- linguistics noun the scientific study of language, including its structure, development, and use in communication
- listless adjective lacking energy or enthusiasm; showing a dull, inactive state
- lithe adjective flexible and agile, especially in movement or form
- loathe verb to feel intense dislike or hatred toward someone or something
- locate verb to find the position or location of something or someone
- lodge verb to formally submit or file (as a complaint, petition, or claim); to present officially in writing or through proper procedure, especially in a legal or institutional context
- lofty adjective extremely high in elevation, status, or ambition; grand or noble in nature or scope
- logic noun the systematic use of reason to arrive at valid conclusions or to understand relationships between ideas
- logical adjective based on reason or sound logic; conforming to a clear, rational sequence of thought or principles
- longitudinal adjective relating to or extending along the length or direction of something; running parallel to a lengthwise axis.
- loquacious adjective tending to speak a great deal, especially in an excessive or unnecessary manner
- lucid adjective clear in thought or expression; easy to understand
- lucrative adjective producing a large amount of money or profit
- lugubrious adjective expressing or characterized by deep sorrow or melancholy; mournful
- luminous adjective emitting or reflecting light; bright or glowing
- lump noun a large, irregular mass or quantity of something, often unformed or unwanted
- machinery noun a system of interrelated mechanical devices or equipment used to perform a specific function or process
- magnanimous adjective showing great generosity and forgiveness, especially toward those who have wronged you
- magnetic adjective having a strong attraction or influence over people or things; capable of drawing or influencing others strongly
- magnitude noun the size or extent of something, especially in terms of scale, importance, or intensity
- maintain verb to firmly state or uphold a position or belief
- maintenance noun the act of keeping something in good condition or functioning properly over time
- malevolent adjective intending to cause harm or evil; wickedly hostile
- malice noun intentional ill will or hatred toward someone or something
- malleable adjective capable of being shaped or changed easily; flexible in form or character
- mandate noun an official order or requirement imposed by authority, often with legal or binding force
- mandatory adjective required by law, rule, or official policy; not optional
- manifest verb to become evident or obvious; to show clearly or openly
- manipulate verb to control or influence someone or something, especially by using subtle or deceptive means
- manipulation noun the act of influencing or controlling someone's actions, beliefs, or decisions through subtle or deceptive means
- manipulative adjective intentionally deceiving or influencing someone's actions or beliefs through cunning or deceitful means
- manual noun a detailed written guide or instruction book, especially for a machine, process, or system
- manuscript noun a written document, especially one prepared before publication, typically in the form of a draft or original version of a book, article, or other work.
- margin noun the space or area between two boundaries; also, a small amount or excess in a quantity or amount
- marginal adjective existing at or near the edge; of little importance or value; barely sufficient or acceptable
- marked adjective distinct, clear, and easily noticeable
- maternal adjective relating to or characteristic of a mother or motherhood; showing care, protection, or nurturing typically associated with a mother figure
- mathematical adjective relating to mathematics or involving the principles and methods of mathematics
- maturation noun the process of developing or becoming mature, especially in physical, intellectual, or emotional aspects over time
- mature adjective developed, experienced, and capable of making sound judgments; not childish or immature
- maturity noun the state or quality of being mature; the development of wisdom, self-control, and emotional stability over time
- maverick noun a person who acts independently and defies established norms or conventions
- mawkish adjective excessively sentimental or overly emotional in a way that seems insincere or weak
- maximize verb to make the most of something; to achieve the greatest possible effect or output
- meager adjective insufficient in amount or quality; scanty
- meander verb to move or proceed slowly and without a clear direction, often in a winding or irregular path
- meaningful adjective having significance or importance; capable of conveying a clear, substantial, or valuable idea or impact
- meanwhile conjunctive adverb Signals simultaneity — the occurrence of two related events or developments at the same time or in parallel contexts. It establishes that while one action or situation is unfolding, another is happening concurrently, often in a related or complementary way, without implying sequence or cause-effect.
- measured adjective careful, deliberate, and restrained in action or response; not impulsive or emotional; showing control and thoughtfulness in decision-making or behavior (contrasted with the common meaning of 'quantified' or 'determined by a standard').
- mechanic noun a person who repairs or maintains machines, vehicles, or mechanical systems
- mechanical adjective done automatically, without thought or feeling; lacking emotional or intellectual consideration, operating purely by routine or physical process
- mechanism noun a system of parts or processes that work together to produce a particular effect or function
- mediate verb to act as a middle person to resolve a dispute or conflict between two parties
- mediation noun the process of facilitating a resolution of a dispute between parties through neutral third-party intervention
- mediocre adjective of average quality; lacking distinction or excellence
- melancholy noun a deep, persistent sadness or sorrow, often accompanied by a sense of longing or despair
- mellifluous adjective smooth, sweet, and pleasant to the ear; melodious
- membrane noun a thin, flexible layer that separates or covers parts of an organism or structure, often serving a protective or functional role
- menace noun a serious threat or danger to safety, well-being, or stability
- mentality noun the fundamental mode of thinking or attitude that influences a person's behavior and beliefs
- mentor noun a person who provides guidance, advice, and support to another, especially in a professional or personal development context
- mercurial adjective changing quickly and unpredictably, especially in mood or behavior
- merge verb to combine or unite into a single entity or whole
- mesmerize verb to completely captivate or absorb someone's attention, often to the point of losing awareness of surroundings or self
- messenger noun a person who carries or delivers messages, information, or goods from one place to another
- metabolism noun the chemical processes by which living organisms convert food into energy and maintain life functions
- metamorphosis noun a fundamental change in form, structure, or character, especially in living organisms or systems over time
- metaphor noun a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable, to suggest a resemblance or similarity
- methodical adjective carefully systematic and orderly in approach or procedure
- methodological adjective relating to or characterized by a systematic, logical, and structured approach to a process or investigation, especially in science or research.
- methodology noun the systematic approach or set of principles used in a particular field of study or practice to achieve results or draw conclusions
- meticulous adjective extremely careful and precise in attention to detail
- micro adjective extremely small in size, amount, or scale
- migrate verb to move or transfer from one place to another, especially in a systematic or seasonal manner, often for survival or reproduction
- migration noun the large-scale movement of people, animals, or plants from one region to another, often seasonally or for survival
- mimic verb to imitate or copy the actions, behaviors, or speech of someone else, often in a way that is indistinguishable or exaggerated
- mine verb to extract or draw out from a source, especially information, resources, or data; less common in everyday use, but tested on standardized tests in academic or analytical contexts (contrast with the common meaning of 'belonging to me').
- mineral noun a naturally occurring inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure
- minimal adjective consisting of the smallest possible amount; barely sufficient
- minimalist adjective favoring simplicity and the elimination of unnecessary elements; characterized by minimalism in design, lifestyle, or thought.
- minimalistic adjective characterized by simplicity and the use of only the essential elements, avoiding excess or unnecessary details
- minimize verb to reduce in size, amount, or importance
- ministerial adjective relating to the duties or responsibilities of a minister or official, especially in a formal or administrative capacity
- minority noun a group of people that is smaller in number or proportion than the majority in a population or organization
- mire noun a deep, sticky, and often foul mass of mud or sludge, especially one that is difficult to escape from or that obstructs progress
- misanthrope noun a person who holds a strong dislike or aversion toward humanity in general
- misinterpretation noun a mistaken understanding or incorrect reading of something intended to be understood differently