In each of the following questions, out of the given alternatives,choose the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word.
Cache
Answer: B
It is hiding place.
A cache is a store of things hidden away, from the French cacher, to hide. In computing the sense is the same - data kept close at hand.
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Hallowed
Answer: C
It is sacred.
Hallowed means made holy, from the same root as holy and Halloween, the eve of All Hallows. Unsanctified and irreligious are its opposites.
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Infamous
Answer: D
It is notorious.
Infamous means well known for something bad. Righteous and magnificent are its opposites; the word is not simply the negative of famous, though it looks like it.
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Prowess
Answer: A
It is bravery.
Prowess means outstanding ability or courage, especially in battle, from the Old French for valiant. Cowardice and incapacity are its opposites.
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Hansom
Answer: A
It is a two-wheeled carriage.
The hansom cab, with the driver seated behind and above, was patented by Joseph Hansom in 1834 and was the taxi of Victorian London.
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Acumen
Answer: A
It is quickness of insight.
Acumen means keen judgement, from the Latin for a sharp point - the same root as acute. Misunderstanding is its opposite.
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Tour de force
Answer: C
It is a feat of skill.
Tour de force is French for a turn of strength, and means an achievement carried off with great skill. Show of force is a literal translation that misses the sense.
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Inconsequential
Answer: E
It is insignificant.
Inconsequential means of no importance. Worthwhile and important are its opposites; subsequent and preceding belong to the word's other sense, of not following logically.
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Presage
Answer: A
It is to foretell.
To presage is to be a sign of something to come, from the Latin for perceiving beforehand. Assume and consider are acts of the mind rather than of prediction.
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Repugnance
Answer: D
It is disinclination.
Repugnance is strong distaste or opposition, from the Latin for fighting against. Affection, admiration and esteem are all its opposites.
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