perilous
/pɛɹ.l̩.əs/
Group 11Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Full of danger or risk GRE
Example in Context
The refugees made the perilous crossing in overcrowded boats that were never designed for open water.
Synonyms
dangerousriskyhazardous
Etymology
Full of danger — risky and hazardous.
- periculum (Latin) — danger
Memory Aid
🧭Sounds like “pair of lost”
A pair of lost tourists dangling over a cliff, shouting 'This is PERILOUS!'
Visual Association
⚠️A tightrope walker wobbling high above a pit of hungry alligators, sweat pouring down.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “perilous” mean on the GRE?
perilous (adjective) means “Full of danger or risk”. The refugees made the perilous crossing in overcrowded boats that were never designed for open water.
How to remember “perilous” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “perilous” sounds like “pair of lost”. A pair of lost tourists dangling over a cliff, shouting 'This is PERILOUS!'
What are synonyms for “perilous”?
Common synonyms: dangerous, risky, hazardous.