GRE Vocabulary — Set 15

Set 15 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: obfuscate, venerate, foment, juxtapose, cogitate. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. obfuscate · verb/ˈɑːb.fə.skeɪt/

   to deliberately make something unclear or difficult to understand

   The politician tried to obfuscate the facts surrounding the scandal, leaving the public confused about the truth.

   Synonyms: confuse, obscure, cloud

   Origin: from Latin 'obfuscatus', the past participle of 'obfuscare', meaning to darken or to make obscure.

2. venerate · verb/ˈvɛnəreɪt/

   to regard with great respect or reverence

   Many cultures venerate their ancestors, believing that they hold wisdom and guidance for future generations.

   Synonyms: revere, idolize, admire

   Origin: from Latin 'venerari', meaning 'to regard with reverence or worship'

3. foment · verb/foʊˈmɛnt/

   to instigate or stir up (an undesirable or violent sentiment or course of action)

   The revolutionary group sought to foment unrest among the citizens to challenge the current government's authority.

   Synonyms: instigate, incite, stir up

   Origin: Late Middle English, from Old French 'fomenter', from Latin 'fomentare', from 'fomentum', meaning 'to warm' or 'to soothe'.

4. juxtapose · verb/ˌdʒʌkstəˈpoʊz/

   to place different things side by side for comparison or contrast

   The artist decided to juxtapose vibrant colors with muted tones to create a striking contrast in her latest painting.

   Synonyms: compare, contrast, collate

   Origin: from Latin 'juxtapōnere' meaning 'to place beside'

5. cogitate · verb/ˈkɑː.dʒɪ.teɪt/

   to think deeply or consider carefully

   Before making a final decision, she needed to cogitate on the implications of her choice.

   Synonyms: ponder, meditate, contemplate

   Origin: Late Latin 'cogitāre', which means 'to think' or 'to consider'.