bolster, vacillate, vex, corroborate, waver: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 13. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. bolster · verb/ˈboʊlstər/

   to support or strengthen

   The community came together to bolster support for the local charity event, ensuring its success.

   Synonyms: support, reinforce, strengthen

   Origin: Middle English, from Old English 'bolster', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'bolster' and German 'Polster'.

2. vacillate · verb/ˈvæs.ɪ.leɪt/

   to waver in opinion or decision

   During the meeting, John seemed to vacillate between supporting the new policy and sticking to the old one.

   Synonyms: waver, fluctuate, oscillate

   Origin: from the Latin 'vacillare', meaning 'to sway to and fro, hesitate'

3. vex · verb/vɛks/

   to annoy or frustrate someone

   Her constant interruptions during the meeting began to vex everyone in the room.

   Synonyms: irritate, annoy, aggravate

   Origin: From Latin 'vexare', meaning 'to shake, disturb, or annoy'

4. corroborate · verb/kəˈrɑːbəreɪt/

   to confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding

   The new evidence will help to corroborate the original theory proposed by the scientists.

   Synonyms: verify, support, confirm

   Origin: from Latin 'corroborare', meaning 'to strengthen, confirm'

5. waver · verb/ˈweɪ.vɚ/

   to move unsteadily back and forth or to be indecisive

   As the wind picked up, the candle flames began to waver dangerously close to extinguishing.

   Synonyms: vacillate, oscillate, flutter

   Origin: Middle English 'waver', from Old Norse 'vafra', meaning to move back and forth.