cosset, enervate, castigate, extirpate, demur: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 35. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. cosset · verb/ˈkɑː.sɪt/

   to treat with excessive care and indulgence

   The parents tended to cosset their only child, giving her everything she asked for and never allowing her to face any challenges on her own.

   Synonyms: pamper, nurse, spoil

   Origin: Originates from the late Middle English word 'cosset,' meaning a young lamb or pet, derived from the Old French 'cossin,' diminutive of 'cousin.'

2. enervate · verb/ˈɛn.ər.veɪt/

   to weaken or drain of energy or vitality

   The relentless heat of the summer sun can enervate even the most active individuals, leaving them exhausted by midday.

   Synonyms: weaken, debilitate, exhaust

   Origin: Late Latin 'enervare', from 'e-' (out of) + 'nervus' (sinew, nerve)

3. castigate · verb/ˈkæstɪˌɡeɪt/

   to criticize someone harshly

   The teacher had to castigate the students for their disruptive behavior during the lecture.

   Synonyms: scold, reprimand, chastise

   Origin: from Latin 'castigatus', the past participle of 'castigare' meaning 'to correct or chastise'

4. extirpate · verb/ˈɛk.stɚ.peɪt/

   to remove or destroy completely

   The environmental agency aims to extirpate invasive species from the national parks to restore the native ecosystem.

   Synonyms: eradicate, eliminate, abolish

   Origin: The word 'extirpate' is derived from the Latin 'extirpare', which means 'to root out', composed of 'ex-' (out) and 'stirps' (stem or root).

5. demur · verb/dɪˈmɜr/

   to raise doubts or objections or show reluctance

   She decided to demur at the proposal to extend the project deadline, citing concerns about team burnout.

   Synonyms: object, protest, hesitate

   Origin: Derived from the Latin word 'demorari', meaning 'to delay'.