Section 1
The Latin Foot: PES, PEDIS
Let's step right into our first group of words, all derived from the Latin root for 'foot,' PES or PEDIS. These words deal with movement, progress, and lineage.
Key Words
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| expedient (adj./n.) | Appropriate to a purpose or useful in achieving a goal; A means to an end |
| expedite (v.) | To help or hurry the progress of something; To perform business quickly |
| impede (v.) | To hinder; to block the way of |
| pedigree (n.) | A line or list of ancestors, especially of a distinguished kind; A recorded line of descent showing pure breeding of animals |
| pedometer (n.) | A device that calculates distance traveled by counting the number of steps taken |
Example Usage
- Using the express lane was an expedient way to expedite the checkout process, as the long lines in other aisles would only impede our departure.
- My new pedometer helps me track my steps, but it can't tell me anything about my family's pedigree.
Memory Trick
- To expedite the delivery, the messenger decided it was expedient to use a pedometer to track his route, but the fallen trees continued to impede his progress, making him wish he had the strong pedigree of a champion runner.