✨ Introduction
Mastering Reading Comprehension begins with mastering the words!
In this post, we dive deep into vocabulary taken directly from an actual CAT RC passage. Each word has been explained in a simple, easy-to-understand way, along with examples to help you grasp its usage in real contexts.
From words like "species" and "cognitive" to "subjection" and "paradise," strengthen your vocabulary one word at a time — and take your RC performance to the next level!
📚 What’s Inside This Vocabulary Post?
- 🔍 Words Sourced from an Actual CAT RC Passage: Directly pick up important vocabulary from real CAT exam material.
- 🧠 Meaningful Explanations: Understand the exact meaning and usage of each word in a simple, student-friendly way.
- ✍️ Context-Based Learning: Learn words with examples that reflect their actual usage in reading comprehension contexts.
- 🗂️ Quick Reference Format: Words are neatly listed with meanings, parts of speech, and example sentences for easy revision.
- 🚀 Boost Your RC and Verbal Ability Skills: Improve your understanding of tough passages by strengthening your vocabulary.
📝 Words Covered in This Article:
- Fierce
- Plunderers
- Pillagers
- Imagines
- Archaeological
- Medieval
- Collagen
- Artifacts
- Molecular
- Revealede
WORD 1: Fierce
Context:
(Inferred example: “The competition for the scholarship was fierce, with hundreds of applicants from across the country.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Fierce" describes something intense, powerful, or aggressive. It can refer to physical force (a fierce storm), emotional intensity (fierce loyalty), or competition (fierce rivals). Depending on context, it can express admiration (fierce determination) or fear (fierce animals). In pop culture, it also means bold and impressive—especially in fashion or confidence. It’s a high-energy word that brings strength to descriptions.
Meaning: Intense, aggressive, or extremely strong (Adjective)
Pronunciation: feerss
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *ferus* (“wild”), through Old French *fierce* (“proud, wild”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Fierce” is an expressive word that works in both positive and negative tones. It’s great for essays on competition, personality traits, and dramatic storytelling. Use it to emphasize strength—whether emotional, physical, or stylistic. It pairs well with words like “fight,” “loyalty,” “beauty,” and “storm.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: intense, ferocious, passionate, aggressive, powerful
Antonyms: gentle, mild, calm, peaceful, subdued
Usage Examples:
- The fierce storm caused major damage along the coast.
- She has a fierce determination to succeed despite the odds.
- They are fierce competitors on the field but close friends off it.
- That runway model had a fierce look and unstoppable energy.
Cultural Reference:
In fashion and pop culture, “fierce” became a buzzword after its use by Tyra Banks on *America’s Next Top Model*, where it described bold, confident style and presence. - Fashion Media Influence
Think About It:
Is being fierce always a strength, or can it become a weakness if not balanced with calm and control?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one showing “fierce” in a physical context (like a storm or battle), and one in a personality context (like confidence or loyalty).
Memory Tip:
Think of a *fierce tiger*—wild, strong, and commanding attention. That’s what “fierce” feels like in language too!
Real-World Application:
“Fierce” is useful in creative writing, sports commentary, motivational speeches, and personal development discussions. It adds energy and intensity to your message.
WORD 2: Plunderers
Context:
(Inferred example: “The museum tells stories of ancient plunderers who raided cities and stole their treasures.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Plunderers" are people who take goods, especially by force, during times of war, chaos, or lawlessness. The word evokes images of invading armies, pirates, and thieves who loot valuables from others without regard for justice. While often used in historical or military contexts, the term is also applied metaphorically to describe those who exploit resources or institutions for selfish gain. “Plunderers” carry a strong moral judgment—implying greed, violence, and exploitation.
Meaning: People who steal or rob forcefully, often during war or lawless situations (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: PLUHN-duhr-erz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From German *plündern* (“to rob household goods”), adopted into English during the 17th century, particularly in war contexts
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use “plunderers” when describing historical invaders, pirates, or those who exploit others. It's powerful in essays on colonialism, war, or environmental destruction. The word instantly sets a negative tone and paints someone as greedy and unethical. Great for analytical, historical, or moral arguments.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: looters, raiders, pillagers, robbers, invaders
Antonyms: protectors, defenders, saviors, guardians
Usage Examples:
- The plunderers left the village in ruins, taking everything of value.
- History often glorifies conquerors while ignoring the destruction caused by plunderers.
- Some critics argue that colonial powers acted as plunderers in the name of empire.
- Modern environmentalists warn of corporate plunderers exploiting the planet’s resources.
Cultural Reference:
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s *The Hobbit*, the dragon Smaug is described as a plunderer who hoards treasure stolen from dwarves—representing greed and devastation. - Fantasy Literature & Symbolism
Think About It:
Is there a difference between a conqueror and a plunderer? Who decides whether someone is a hero—or a thief?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence describing a historical or fictional group of plunderers. Focus on what they took and how they were viewed.
Memory Tip:
“Plunderers” = people who *plunge in* and *underhandedly* take what's not theirs—often leaving destruction behind.
Real-World Application:
“Plunderers” is a critical term in history, environmental ethics, literature, and political commentary. It highlights actions driven by greed, especially when resources or cultural treasures are unjustly taken.
WORD 3: Medieval
Context:
(Inferred example: “The cathedral’s architecture reflected a medieval style, with pointed arches and stained glass windows.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Medieval" refers to the Middle Ages—a period in European history from roughly the 5th to the late 15th century. This word is often used to describe things from that era: architecture, literature, weapons, customs, and institutions. The medieval period was marked by feudalism, knights, castles, religious dominance, and a mix of cultural darkness and light. In modern usage, "medieval" can also describe something outdated, brutal, or rigid, depending on tone.
Meaning: Relating to the Middle Ages or resembling aspects of that period (Adjective)
Pronunciation: meh-DEE-vuhl / meh-DEE-ee-vuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *medium aevum* (“the middle age”), later adapted into modern English as “medieval”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Medieval” is a high-utility word in history, art, literature, and social commentary. Use it to describe the specific time period, or metaphorically to critique old-fashioned attitudes. It’s excellent in essays dealing with historical change, cultural evolution, or when comparing the past and present.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: Middle-Age, feudal, ancient (contextual), archaic (figurative)
Antonyms: modern, contemporary, futuristic, progressive
Usage Examples:
- The museum features medieval armor and weapons from 13th-century Europe.
- The village retained a medieval layout with narrow streets and stone cottages.
- Her views on education were almost medieval—rigid and outdated.
- Medieval manuscripts were often copied by hand and richly illustrated.
Cultural Reference:
The fantasy world of *Game of Thrones* draws heavily on medieval themes, featuring castles, knights, feudal lords, and power struggles reminiscent of medieval Europe. - Pop Culture & Medieval Influence
Think About It:
What makes people today still fascinated by the medieval period—its romance, mystery, or brutality?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “medieval” to describe a structure (like a building) and another using it metaphorically to describe a person or idea.
Memory Tip:
“Medieval” = *middle age* → imagine knights, castles, and cathedrals from the center of history’s timeline.
Real-World Application:
“Medieval” is widely used in history, literature, art, architecture, fantasy storytelling, and even political commentary to refer to outdated systems or aesthetics rooted in the past.
WORD 4: Imagines
Context:
(Inferred example: “She often imagines what life would be like if she lived by the ocean.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Imagines" is the third-person singular form of the verb "imagine," which means to form a mental picture of something that is not present or real. It is closely linked to creativity, hope, daydreaming, and vision. People imagine possibilities, futures, alternate realities, or even solutions to problems. It's a verb that connects thinking with feeling and gives power to the mind’s ability to shape ideas, art, and goals.
Meaning: Thinks of or visualizes something not present or real (Verb – third-person singular)
Pronunciation: ih-MAJ-inz
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *imaginari* (“to form a picture of, to conceive”) → *imago* (“image”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Imagines” is a light, expressive word ideal for narratives, essays, and creative writing. Use it when describing a character's thoughts, a dream, a vision, or even a plan. It reflects possibility and often introduces a hypothetical or emotional element into writing. A great word to build imaginative, reflective tone.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: visualizes, envisions, dreams of, pictures, conceives
Antonyms: ignores, disbelieves, doubts, dismisses
Usage Examples:
- He imagines a world where everyone has equal access to education.
- She imagines herself standing on a Broadway stage someday.
- The author imagines what might have happened if history had taken a different turn.
- The child imagines that her teddy bear can talk when no one is watching.
Cultural Reference:
John Lennon’s famous song “Imagine” invites listeners to imagine a peaceful world without borders, religion, or conflict—becoming an anthem for hope and global unity. - Music & Peace Movements
Think About It:
Why is the ability to imagine such a powerful human trait? Can it be both a source of strength and a cause for escapism?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence beginning with “She imagines...” or “He imagines...” and describe a vivid or inspiring vision of the future.
Memory Tip:
“Imagines” comes from “image” — whenever you imagine something, you *create a picture in your mind*!
Real-World Application:
“Imagines” is widely used in fiction, planning, innovation, marketing, and psychology. It plays a central role in storytelling, goal-setting, and empathetic thinking.
WORD 5: Pillagers
Context:
(Inferred example: “The museum displayed artifacts once stolen by pillagers during the ancient invasions.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Pillagers" are people who violently loot or plunder a place, typically during war, invasion, or civil unrest. The term is often used in historical and military contexts to describe attackers who not only conquer but also steal valuables, burn cities, and destroy cultures. It is closely related to “plunderers” but often implies a particularly brutal or destructive form of theft. "Pillagers" carries a strong negative tone, often associated with cruelty, greed, and lawlessness.
Meaning: People who steal goods violently, especially during war or chaos (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: PIL-uh-jurz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old French *piller* (“to plunder”), related to *pillare* — one who strips or plucks away by force
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Pillagers” is a vivid, emotive word ideal for history essays or descriptive writing. Use it to emphasize the destruction or brutality of invaders. It contrasts well with terms like “liberators” or “rescuers,” and helps frame the moral tone of historical narratives or literary accounts.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: looters, raiders, plunderers, marauders, invaders
Antonyms: defenders, saviors, protectors, preservers
Usage Examples:
- The pillagers ransacked the temples and carted away priceless relics.
- Throughout history, many empires relied on pillagers to expand their wealth.
- The castle was attacked by a band of ruthless pillagers under the cover of darkness.
- Historians now debate whether certain colonial explorers were adventurers or pillagers.
Cultural Reference:
In Viking lore, the Norsemen are often portrayed as pillagers—feared not just for their sailing skills but for their raids on monasteries and villages across Europe. - Medieval European History
Think About It:
How does calling someone a “pillager” influence the way we interpret their actions in history or fiction? Is language shaping our moral judgment?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence that contrasts “pillagers” with a positive group, like “defenders” or “rescuers,” in a historical or fictional setting.
Memory Tip:
“Pillagers” → Think of *pillaging villages* — burning, looting, destroying. It’s violent and ruthless by definition.
Real-World Application:
“Pillagers” is commonly used in historical analysis, war narratives, and fantasy literature. It carries emotional weight and helps establish tone, character morality, and cultural critique.
WORD 6: Archaeological
Context:
(Inferred example: “The team uncovered fascinating archaeological evidence beneath the ancient city ruins.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Archaeological" is an adjective relating to archaeology—the study of past human life and civilizations through physical remains such as artifacts, buildings, tools, and bones. Archaeological research helps us understand ancient cultures, technologies, and belief systems. The term often describes findings, digs, or studies conducted at historical sites. It brings a scientific and cultural lens to the discovery of how humans once lived, adapted, and evolved.
Meaning: Relating to the scientific study of ancient cultures through material remains (Adjective)
Pronunciation: ar-kee-uh-LOJ-i-kuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *arkhaiologia* (“ancient history”), from *arkhaios* (“ancient”) + *logos* (“study”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Archaeological” is a strong academic word, perfect for essays on history, heritage, or science. It’s often paired with terms like “site,” “evidence,” “research,” or “dig.” Remember, the word is about studying *physical remains*, not just written records. It adds precision and depth to historical or cultural writing.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: historical, ancient, antiquarian, heritage-related
Antonyms: modern, futuristic, contemporary, current
Usage Examples:
- Archaeological discoveries in Egypt have rewritten parts of ancient history.
- The museum features an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts.
- She joined an archaeological dig in Greece to study ancient temples.
- Radio carbon dating is often used in archaeological research to determine artifact age.
Cultural Reference:
The discovery of the Rosetta Stone was a monumental archaeological find that helped scholars decode Egyptian hieroglyphics and revolutionized our understanding of ancient Egypt. - World History
Think About It:
How do archaeological discoveries help us understand not just history, but who we are as a global human culture?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence describing an imaginary archaeological discovery and what it might reveal about the past.
Memory Tip:
Think “archaeological” = *digging into the past* — like using a brush and shovel to gently uncover human history.
Real-World Application:
“Archaeological” is often used in education, documentaries, museum exhibitions, tourism, and academic writing. It signals research grounded in real-world evidence from the distant past.
WORD 7: Collagen
Context:
(Inferred example: “As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, which leads to wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Collagen" is the most abundant protein in the human body, playing a vital role in the structure and strength of skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It acts like scaffolding, giving tissues their firmness and flexibility. Collagen is especially well-known in skincare and wellness industries, where it's associated with youthful skin and joint health. The body produces less collagen with age, which is why it's often included in supplements and beauty products.
Meaning: A structural protein found in skin, bones, and connective tissues that provides strength and elasticity (Noun)
Pronunciation: KAW-luh-jen
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *kolla* (“glue”) + *-gen* (“producing”), originally meaning “glue-producing”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Collagen” is a great word to know in biology, health science, and skincare discussions. It’s useful in essays about aging, health supplements, anatomy, and wellness trends. Make sure you understand it as a scientific term, even though it's often used in advertisements. It connects biology with beauty and health industries.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: structural protein (contextual), connective protein
Antonyms: (None exact – but functionally opposite terms might include elastin in some contexts, or lack/deficiency of structural support)
Usage Examples:
- Collagen gives skin its firmness and helps maintain elasticity.
- As collagen production slows down with age, wrinkles and joint stiffness become more common.
- Many people take collagen supplements to improve skin health and reduce signs of aging.
- Collagen fibers are also essential for wound healing and tissue repair.
Cultural Reference:
In modern wellness culture, collagen has become a buzzword, appearing in beauty creams, protein powders, and even coffee additives—touted as a miracle ingredient for glowing skin and joint support. - Health & Lifestyle Trends
Think About It:
Do you think society places too much emphasis on external youth—fueling the collagen craze—or is it a helpful way to care for the body as it ages?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence explaining the biological role of collagen, and another describing how it's marketed in skincare products.
Memory Tip:
Think “collagen = college of strength” — it holds your body together like strong building blocks or natural glue.
Real-World Application:
“Collagen” is used in biology, nutrition, dermatology, sports science, and wellness marketing. Knowing the science behind the term helps you evaluate health trends critically and understand the body’s structural needs.
WORD 8: Artifacts
Context:
(Inferred example: “The archaeologists unearthed ancient artifacts that revealed details about the lost civilization.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Artifacts" are objects made or used by humans, typically from a past culture or historical period, that provide insight into how people lived. These can include tools, weapons, pottery, clothing, jewelry, and artworks. In archaeology and anthropology, artifacts are crucial for understanding ancient societies. In modern usage, the word can also refer to anomalies or distortions in digital images or scientific experiments—but its primary use is still linked to physical remains of historical importance.
Meaning: Human-made objects, typically of cultural or historical interest (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: AR-ti-fakts
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *arte* (“by skill”) + *factum* (“a thing made”) — literally, “something made by skill”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Artifacts” is an essential word in history, archaeology, and cultural studies. Use it when discussing how physical objects reflect human behavior, identity, or beliefs. It's a high-utility academic word for essays on civilization, heritage, and discovery. Always connect the artifact to the insight it provides!
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: relics, remains, antiquities, objects, cultural items
Antonyms: natural formations, unaltered nature (in context)
Usage Examples:
- The museum houses hundreds of artifacts from ancient Mesopotamia.
- Each artifact discovered at the site told a story about daily life centuries ago.
- Digital artifacts in the image made it difficult to see the original photo clearly.
- Scholars debated whether the artifact was ceremonial or purely decorative.
Cultural Reference:
The discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 revealed over 5,000 artifacts, offering unmatched insight into ancient Egyptian beliefs, artistry, and burial practices. - World Archaeology
Think About It:
What do the artifacts we leave behind today—phones, plastic, art—say about our current civilization to future archaeologists?
Quick Activity:
Imagine you’re an archaeologist in the future. List 3 artifacts you might find from 2024 and describe what they might reveal about today’s society.
Memory Tip:
“Artifacts” = *artfully made facts* about the past—physical evidence left behind by humans.
Real-World Application:
“Artifacts” is commonly used in history, museums, archaeology, anthropology, and sometimes in technology or digital imaging. Understanding this word enhances your ability to analyze and describe tangible evidence of culture and time.
WORD 9: Molecular
Context:
(Inferred example: “Scientists are studying the molecular structure of the new compound to understand its potential uses.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Molecular" is an adjective that refers to molecules—the smallest units of a chemical substance that retain its composition and properties. It’s a foundational term in chemistry and biology, often used to describe the structure, behavior, or interactions of molecules in reactions, cells, DNA, or drugs. From molecular gastronomy in kitchens to molecular genetics in labs, this word helps describe processes happening at the tiniest, most essential level of matter and life.
Meaning: Relating to or consisting of molecules (Adjective)
Pronunciation: muh-LEK-yuh-lur
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *molecula* (“small mass”), a diminutive of *moles* (“mass”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Molecular” is key in scientific writing—especially in chemistry, biology, and medicine. Use it when you're describing things on a microscopic or atomic scale. It pairs well with words like “structure,” “biology,” “composition,” and “interaction.” Try using it in your science reports or essays to add precision and academic depth.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: microscopic, atomic (contextual), chemical-level
Antonyms: macroscopic, large-scale, cellular (sometimes, depending on context)
Usage Examples:
- Molecular biology focuses on how genes and proteins interact at the cellular level.
- Researchers analyzed the molecular composition of the new synthetic fabric.
- The vaccine targets the virus at a molecular level, disrupting its ability to reproduce.
- In molecular gastronomy, chefs use science to alter textures and flavors in innovative ways.
Cultural Reference:
Molecular gastronomy, popularized by chefs like Ferran Adrià and Heston Blumenthal, revolutionized cooking by applying chemistry to food textures and taste, turning kitchens into scientific labs. - Modern Culinary Science
Think About It:
How does understanding the molecular structure of things change the way we see the world—from food to medicine to technology?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “molecular” to describe something in science (like biology or chemistry), and another sentence using it in a creative or metaphorical context (like cooking or design).
Memory Tip:
“Molecular” comes from *molecule*—just think of zooming in on the tiniest building blocks of life and matter.
Real-World Application:
“Molecular” is widely used in academic research, chemistry labs, genetic engineering, materials science, and advanced food science. Mastering this word opens doors to STEM vocabulary at a deeper level.
WORD 10: Revealed
Context:
(Inferred example: “The investigation revealed a series of hidden financial transactions.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Revealed" is the past tense of the verb "reveal," which means to make something known that was previously hidden, secret, or unclear. It is often used in storytelling, news reporting, and research contexts. Whether you're talking about revealing emotions, facts, identities, or truths, the word suggests a moment of exposure or clarity. It can imply honesty, surprise, or discovery depending on the tone and context.
Meaning: Made known or shown something that was previously hidden (Verb – past tense)
Pronunciation: ri-VEELD
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *revelare* (“to uncover”), from *re-* (“again”) + *velare* (“to cover, veil”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Revealed” is a versatile, high-frequency word perfect for use in essays, stories, and news-style writing. Use it when describing moments of realization or truth. It adds drama, clarity, or emotional depth to a sentence. Also, it's a great alternative to “showed” or “disclosed.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: disclosed, exposed, uncovered, unveiled, shared
Antonyms: concealed, hid, suppressed, obscured, covered
Usage Examples:
- The final chapter revealed the identity of the mysterious stranger.
- Her face revealed a mix of relief and fear.
- Scientists revealed the results of the new vaccine trial today.
- The painting revealed layers of history beneath its surface.
Cultural Reference:
In mystery and thriller genres, the “big reveal” is a critical moment when hidden truths come to light, such as the final scene in *The Sixth Sense*, which revealed a twist that redefined the entire story. - Film & Narrative Structure
Think About It:
Is it always good to reveal the truth, or are there times when hiding something might protect others or maintain peace?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence where something dramatic or emotional is “revealed.” Try to include the subject, what was hidden, and the reaction.
Memory Tip:
“Revealed” comes from “remove the veil”—so imagine pulling a curtain back to show what was hidden behind it.
Real-World Application:
“Revealed” is widely used in journalism, science, fiction writing, emotional reflection, and public speaking. It’s a powerful verb that signals clarity, exposure, and transformation.
