WORDS from last week’s World News
1. proximate: (adjective) close or very near
On April 6, NASA’s Artemis II reached its most proximate point to the moon, offering its four astronauts remarkable views. The spacecraft came within 4,067 miles of the lunar surface before traveling out to a maximum distance of 252,756 miles from Earth. From that proximity, the crew was able to capture detailed images of craters and ancient lava formations.
2. onus: (noun) a formal or sophisticated way to say "responsibility" or "duty"
U.S. officials stated that the negotiations fell apart due to what they described as Iran’s unwillingness to agree to give up its nuclear program, while Iranian officials accused the U.S. of causing the breakdown without detailing the specific disagreements. Neither side clarified what might occur once the 14-day ceasefire ends on April 22. Mediators from Pakistan called on all parties to uphold the truce. Both sides maintained that their positions were firm and placed onus on the other, highlighting how little progress had been made during the discussions.
3. exorbitant: (adjective) highly excessive
FIFA has increased ticket prices for World Cup matches taking place this summer across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with some seats now reaching up to $11,000. Previously, during an earlier sales phase, the highest-priced tickets for the final were listed at $6,370. The organization has drawn criticism over these exorbitant prices and multiple hikes, and a fan advocacy group has submitted a complaint highlighting the high costs.
4. Ichthyology: (noun) the branch of zoology dealing with fish
This month, ichthyologists verified earlier anecdotal reports from seventeen years ago suggesting that a fish species known as shellear can scale steep rock surfaces. Researchers captured footage of thousands of these small fish climbing a fifty-foot rock wall behind a waterfall in the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking the first documented instance of this behavior in African fish.
5. susceptible: (adjective) capable of being affected
A recent study indicates that a protein found in sweat, tears, and saliva may help explain why up to 35% of people are resistant or not susceptible to the flu. Scientists examined a chain of amino acids in the body and discovered that individuals with higher levels of this protein in their sweat were less likely to become infected, suggesting it may serve as a natural defense against the virus.
6. venerable: (adjective) impressive or interesting because of age, antique appearance, etc.
Following a viral hoax that falsely reported the death of the world’s oldest tortoise, authorities on St. Helena quickly confirmed that Jonathan was still alive. Admirers of the historically venerable reptile—who is at least 193 years old—were relieved to hear he continues to live comfortably at the governor’s residence.
7. surname: (noun) a person’s last name
Japan’s requirement that married couples adopt the same surname has led a dating agency to organize events specifically for people who share last names. Under the rule, spouses must use a single family name on official documents. A Tokyo-based matchmaker has brought together singles with some of the nation’s most common surnames —such as Suzuki, Ito, Tanaka, and Sato—to support those who wish to keep their own name after marriage.
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