inveigle, encompass, meander, nullify, malign: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 84. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. inveigle · verb/ɪnˈveɪɡəl/

   to persuade someone to do something by using deception or flattery

   The charming salesperson sought to inveigle the unsuspecting customer into buying an extended warranty for the expensive gadget.

   Synonyms: entice, lure, coax

   Origin: The word 'inveigle' comes from the Middle French 'enveigler,' which is derived from the Old French 'veiger,' meaning to lead or to entice.

2. encompass · verb/ɪnˈkʌm.pəs/

   to include or cover something completely

   The new urban plan will encompass both residential areas and green spaces to foster a balanced community.

   Synonyms: include, cover, contain

   Origin: from Latin 'encompassare', meaning 'to grasp or enclose'.

3. meander · verb/miˈændɚ/

   to follow a winding course or to wander aimlessly

   We decided to meander along the scenic riverbank, enjoying the view as we strolled.

   Synonyms: wander, roam, drift

   Origin: From the Greek 'Maiandros,' the name of a river in Phrygia known for its winding course.

4. nullify · verb/ˈnʌləˌfaɪ/

   to make legally null and void or to invalidate

   The court decided to nullify the contract due to the misleading information provided by the seller.

   Synonyms: annul, invalidate, rescind

   Origin: From Latin 'nullificare', from 'nullus' meaning 'none' + 'facere' meaning 'to make'.

5. malign · verb/məˈlaɪn/

   to speak about someone in a spitefully critical manner

   Despite his successes, she continued to malign his character, spreading rumors about his integrity.

   Synonyms: slander, defame, vilify

   Origin: Middle English, from the Latin 'malignari', which means 'to speak evil of'.