emancipate, disparage, purport, disavow, vitiate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 116. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. emancipate · verb/ɪˈmænsɪˌpeɪt/

   to set free from restriction or control

   The new legislation aimed to emancipate individuals from outdated social norms that restricted their freedom and choices.

   Synonyms: liberate, set free, release

   Origin: from Latin 'emancipare', meaning 'to transfer ownership, to free from control', composed of 'e-' (out) and 'manus' (hand)

2. disparage · verb/dɪˈspɛr.ɪdʒ/

   to speak of or treat slightingly; to belittle or degrade

   He often disparages her achievements, suggesting they aren't worthy of praise.

   Synonyms: deprecate, dismiss, belittle

   Origin: from Middle French 'desparager', from Old French 'des-' (opposite of) + 'parage' (rank, lineage)

3. purport · verb/pərˈpɔrt/

   to claim or appear to be something, often when this may not be true

   The document purports to provide a comprehensive overview of the research findings, but many experts question its authenticity.

   Synonyms: claim, imply, profess

   Origin: From Middle English 'purporten', derived from Latin 'purportare' meaning 'to carry through' or 'to bear out'.

4. disavow · verb/ˌdɪs.əˈvaʊ/

   to deny any responsibility or support for something

   After the scandal broke, the politician had to disavow his previous statements, claiming he never supported the controversial policy.

   Synonyms: disown, repudiate, reject

   Origin: From the Middle French 'desavouer', from 'des-' (dis-) + 'avouer' (to avow), from Latin 'approbare' (to approve).

5. vitiate · verb/ˈvɪʃ.i.eɪt/

   to spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of

   The excessive use of artificial ingredients can vitiate the flavor of the dish, making it less enjoyable.

   Synonyms: impair, spoil, tarnish

   Origin: from Latin 'vitiatus', the past participle of 'vitiare', meaning 'to make faulty, to corrupt'.