adept

/əˈdɛpt/

Group 25Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Very skilled or proficient at something
GRE

Example in Context

The diplomat was adept at reading the subtle cues that signaled when a negotiating partner was ready to make concessions.

Synonyms

skilledexpertproficient

Etymology

Having attained a high level of skill in something.

  • adeptus (Latin) — to attain

Memory Aid

🏅Sounds like “a-dept

A magician so skilled he has his own A-DEPT of rabbits performing tricks — he is extremely ADEPT at magic!

Visual Association

💪A master chef effortlessly flipping pancakes in the air, showcasing their ADEPT skills in the kitchen.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “adept” mean on the GRE?

adept (adjective) means “Very skilled or proficient at something”. The diplomat was adept at reading the subtle cues that signaled when a negotiating partner was ready to make concessions.

How to remember “adept” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “adept” sounds like “a-dept”. A magician so skilled he has his own A-DEPT of rabbits performing tricks — he is extremely ADEPT at magic!

What are synonyms for “adept”?

Common synonyms: skilled, expert, proficient.