Cosmopolitan
mediumPositive tonekoz-muh-POL-i-tuhn
adjective
Definition
worldly and at home in many cultures or places
Memory hook
COSMOPOLITAN = COSMO (world) + POLITAN (citizen)—a citizen of the whole COSMOS, comfortable everywhere; the opposite of a provincial homebody.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Years abroad gave her a cosmopolitan outlook that delighted in unfamiliar customs.”
“The port city had a cosmopolitan character, blending cuisines from a dozen nations.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Years abroad gave her a ______ outlook that delighted in unfamiliar customs.”
Show answer
cosmopolitan
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Cosmopolitan is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "worldly" or "sophisticated" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "provincial".
Related GRE Words
urbane
suave, polished, and refined in manner
heritage
Property that is or may be inherited; valued objects and cultural traditions passed down through generations
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
Master cosmopolitan and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.