sector

Pronunciation: /ˈsɛktər/

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of sector

sector (noun): An area, division, or portion of a larger whole, often referring to a distinct part of a society, economy, or field of activity.

Example: The technology sector has seen unprecedented growth due to advances in artificial intelligence and renewable energy solutions.

Best for: common-difficulty vocabulary; learners who already know "division" or "segment"; GRE Verbal (Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence); SAT Reading & Writing (Words in Context).

Origin of sector

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: sector

Original meaning: a cutter, something that cuts

How it evolved: Initially used in geometry to describe parts of a circle, the term broadened to signify divisions or subdivisions in other contexts, such as economics or society.

The word originates from Latin, where it was used in geometry to denote a 'cut' or 'section' of a circle, later extending to broader divisions.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember sector

Think of a 'sector' as a 'section' of something larger—both words even start with 'sec', making it easy to connect them.

Synonyms for sector

Antonyms of sector

sector in a Sentence

  1. The technology sector has seen unprecedented growth due to advances in artificial intelligence and renewable energy solutions.
  2. In the aftermath of the financial crisis, governments focused on stabilizing the banking sector to prevent economic collapse.
  3. The nonprofit sector plays a crucial role in addressing societal challenges that fall outside the scope of government and private industries.

sector in Literature & Culture

The term 'sector' frequently appears in discussions about economic trends, such as the 'tech sector' or 'healthcare sector,' and is often used in political speeches and business literature.

Usage Notes

While 'sector' is versatile, it is most often used in formal or technical contexts, such as economics, geography, and sociology. Avoid using it interchangeably with 'section' in casual speech.

Why sector Matters for GRE & SAT

The word 'sector' frequently appears in GRE reading comprehension passages, especially those dealing with economics, technology, or societal analysis, making it essential for test-takers to understand its nuances.

Word Family

sectoral (adjective)
Relating to or involving a specific sector or division.
sectorial (adjective)
Pertaining to a sector; often used in technical or mathematical contexts.
section (noun)
A distinct part or subdivision of something.

Did You Know?

  • The term 'sector' is widely used in geometry to describe a portion of a circle defined by two radii and the connecting arc.
  • In military jargon, 'sector' refers to a specific area of responsibility in a battlefield or operation.
  • The phrase 'private sector' versus 'public sector' has become a common way to describe the division between businesses and government roles in modern economies.
  • domain
  • sphere
  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

More Vocabulary Words Starting with S

  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior