Vocabulary word Inordinate - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

High School 17

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SAT 5 (Scholastic Assessment Test)

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Size and Amount

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Dictionary Definition of inordinate

Excessive, immoderate, or beyond what is considered reasonable or normal in quantity, size, degree, or extent.
"We waited an inordinate amount of time for a table at the restaurant."

Detailed Meaning of Inordinate

When something is labeled as inordinate, it implies that it goes well beyond the typical or expected limits, often to the point of being disproportionate or extravagant. This term can be applied to various contexts, such as inordinate amounts of stress, an inordinate amount of time spent on a task, or an inordinate appetite for something. It underscores the idea of something being unreasonably large, intense, or imbalanced in relation to what is deemed appropriate or necessary. In essence, "inordinate" signifies an extreme or unwarranted level of something, often highlighting an excess that stands out as abnormal or unreasonable.

Example Sentences for Inordinate

1. She took an inordinate amount of time to finish the assignment.
2. The project required an inordinate level of attention to detail.
3. The film's success was due to the inordinate efforts of the entire cast and crew.
4. We spent an inordinate amount of money on home repairs last year.
5. He had an inordinate fascination with ancient civilizations.
6. Her inordinate expectations were a source of stress for her team.

Origin and Etymology of Inordinate

The adjective 'inordinate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word 'inordinatus,' which is a combination of 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'ordinatus,' derived from 'ordinare,' meaning 'to arrange' or 'to put in order.' The term 'inordinate' literally suggests something that is not arranged or ordered in a proper or regular manner, thereby conveying the sense of excess or immoderation. When we use 'inordinate' to describe something, we are highlighting its excessive, immoderate, or abnormal nature, often beyond what is considered reasonable or normal in terms of quantity, size, degree, or extent. The etymology of 'inordinate' underscores the idea of deviation from the expected order or arrangement, emphasizing the notion of excessiveness or lack of restraint.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective inordinate:

excessive

modest

moderate

reasonable

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Inordinate

1. Despite the inordinate challenges, he remained optimistic about the future.
2. His inordinate passion for music led him to start his own band.
3. They have an inordinate number of books in their personal library.
4. The inordinate delay in the construction led to significant financial losses.
5. She showed an inordinate level of patience in dealing with difficult customers.
6. The inordinate complexity of the legal system can be daunting for newcomers.
7. My neighbor has an inordinate fondness for loud music at odd hours.
8. The inordinate amount of junk food he consumed had adverse effects on his health.
9. The team was under inordinate pressure to deliver the project on time.
10. Despite the inordinate hardship, they never lost hope.
11. Her inordinate ambition often led her to work long hours.
12. There has been an inordinate increase in the prices of essential goods.
13. The experiment required an inordinate amount of precision.
14. His inordinate devotion to his work often left little time for his family.