HESI A2 Vocabulary 2024

1. Choose the meaning of the word 'waft' in the following sentence: The steady breeze caused dry leaves to waft over the creek.

• A. Sink
• B. Dive
• C. Wave
• D. Float

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this sentence, the word 'waft' is used to describe the movement of dry leaves over the creek in response to the steady breeze. 'Waft' means to float gently through the air. The correct meaning of 'waft' in this context is to float. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because 'sink' means to go down below the surface of something, 'dive' means to plunge headfirst into water or another substance, and 'wave' means to move one's hand to and fro in greeting or as a signal.

2. What is another word for contemptuous?

• A. Sympathetic
• B. Exhausted
• C. Scornful
• D. Insensitive

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The word 'contemptuous' means showing disdain or scorn for something or someone. Therefore, the word 'scornful' is the most closely related synonym to 'contemptuous' in this list. 'Sympathetic' means showing compassion, 'exhausted' means very tired, and 'insensitive' means lacking empathy. These options do not convey the same meaning as 'contemptuous'.

3. Choose the meaning of the word 'indigent' in the following sentence: The hospital accepts a certain quota of indigent patients.

• A. Impoverished
• B. Resentful
• C. Apathetic
• D. Uninjured

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'indigent' means impoverished or needy. The sentence conveys that the hospital takes in a specific number of financially disadvantaged patients. Choice B, 'Resentful,' does not align with the context of the sentence. Choice C, 'Apathetic,' does not describe the financial status of the patients. Choice D, 'Uninjured,' is unrelated to the meaning of 'indigent' in the sentence.

4. What is a nit?

• A. abscess
• B. parasite
• C. bandage
• D. infection

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A nit is a kind of parasite, specifically the egg of a louse. Nits are typically found attached to hair close to the scalp and are commonly associated with head lice infestations. Choice A, 'abscess,' is incorrect as an abscess is a collection of pus caused by an infection. Choice C, 'bandage,' is incorrect as it is a material used for covering wounds. Choice D, 'infection,' is incorrect as it refers to the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues.

5. Hypothetical is best defined as being ___________.

• A. rigorous
• B. short-term
• C. assumed
• D. convinced

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Hypothetical is best defined as being assumed because it describes something that is based on a theory or assumption rather than solid proof or certainty. Hypothetical situations are used to explore different possibilities or outcomes without being confirmed as true or existing. Choice A, 'rigorous,' does not accurately define hypothetical, as it refers to something that is extremely thorough, accurate, or carefully done. Choice B, 'short-term,' is unrelated to the definition of hypothetical. Choice D, 'convinced,' does not capture the essence of hypothetical, which is more about assumptions and possibilities rather than being convinced of something.