Wan: Descriptive SAT Vocabulary
WAN most nearly means: A) robust; B) vibrant; C) cheerful; D) pallid. Answer inside. 👉️
Sometimes people say, You’re looking a little wan; are you okay?
Let’s find out what this actually means.
📚️ Definition of Wan
Wan (adjective): Pale and sickly-looking, often suggesting exhaustion or weakness; also, lacking in force, brightness, or intensity. Example: a wan smile.
🗣️ Pronunciation of Wan
IPA: /wɑn/ (See IPA key)
Respelling: WAHN
📰 Examples of Wan
Here are some examples of the word wan:
After pulling an all-nighter to finish her AP Lang essay, Mariana came to school looking quite wan and droopy-eyed.
“Why so pale and wan, fond lover? Prithee, why so pale?” — Sir John Suckling, “Song” (1638)
The wan winter daylight barely warmed the house, and nights were even colder.
Quiz answer: D, pallid.