English vocabulary · C1
Felicitous
/fɪˈlɪs.ɪ.təs/ · adj.
It means perfectly suited to the moment. The right word, the right action, at exactly the right time.
Watch the Felicitous lessonContinue in the learning app for video lessons and review.
Example sentences
- Her opening line was felicitous, drawing every eye.
- The timing of the announcement was felicitous.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- felix — happy (from Latin)
- ous — full of (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- APT — exactly right (Direct & Simple)
- FITTING — right for the situation (Practical & Neutral)
- APPROPRIATE — socially correct (Formal & Expected)
Words with the same root
felix — happy
- felicity — great happiness; perfect fit
- felicitate — to congratulate
- infelicitous — not well suited; awkward
Lesson notes
Felicitous. It means perfectly suited to the moment. The right word, the right action, at exactly the right time.
Similar words are apt, fitting, and appropriate. Use felicitous when a choice feels surprisingly perfect.
Her opening line was felicitous, drawing every eye. The timing of the announcement was felicitous.
From Latin. Felix- means happy. Something felicitous brings a happy, perfect feeling to the moment.