SAT Vocabulary Quiz: 40 Essential Words

How to Use This Quiz

Cover the definitions column and try to define each word. Then check. Score yourself: 36–40 = Excellent | 28–35 = Good | Below 28 = Review needed.

Essential SAT Vocabulary

• Aberrant – deviating from the norm

• Alacrity – eager willingness or readiness

• Ameliorate – to make something better

• Anachronism – something out of its proper time

• Capricious – given to sudden unpredictable changes

• Dissemble – to conceal or disguise one's true feelings

• Enervate – to weaken or drain of energy

• Ephemeral – lasting a very short time

• Equivocate – to use ambiguous language to mislead

• Exacerbate – to make worse

• Impetuous – acting without thinking

• Loquacious – tending to talk a lot

• Mendacious – not telling the truth

• Obsequious – excessively compliant or deferential

• Perspicacious – having a ready insight; shrewd