GRE Vocabulary — Set 176

Set 176 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: objurgate, obtrude, obviate, ogle, oscillate. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. objurgate · verb/ˈɑb.dʒər.ɡeɪt/

   to scold or rebuke severely

   The teacher did not hesitate to objurgate the students for their lack of preparation for the exam.

   Synonyms: rebuke, reprimand, scold

   Origin: from Latin 'objurgare', meaning 'to scold, rebuke', composed of 'ob-' (against) and 'jurgare' (to rebuke).

2. obtrude · verb/əbˈtruːd/

   to impose or force oneself or ideas upon others

   It was rude of him to obtrude his opinions during the meeting, especially when others were trying to share their thoughts.

   Synonyms: intrude, impose, encroach

   Origin: From Latin 'obtrudere', where 'ob-' means 'against' and 'trudere' means 'to push'.

3. obviate · verb/ˈɑb.vi.eɪt/

   to eliminate or prevent a problem or difficulty

   Implementing strict safety protocols can obviate potential hazards in the workplace.

   Synonyms: prevent, avert, eliminate

   Origin: from Latin 'obviare', meaning 'to stand in the way of, prevent'

4. ogle · verb/ˈoʊɡl/

   to stare at in a lecherous or lustful manner

   He couldn't help but ogle the stunning model walking down the street, his eyes following her every move.

   Synonyms: leer, gaze, gawk

   Origin: The word 'ogle' originates from the late 17th century, possibly a variant of the word 'oggel,' which may have roots in an older form of 'ogling' related to the Old Norse 'auga,' meaning 'eye.'

5. oscillate · verb/ˈɑːsɪleɪt/

   to move or swing back and forth in a regular rhythm

   The pendulum began to oscillate back and forth, creating a soothing rhythm in the quiet room.

   Synonyms: swing, sway, fluctuate

   Origin: From Latin 'oscillatus', the past participle of 'oscillare', meaning 'to swing'.