kibosh, kindle, mollycoddle, irk, obliterate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 91. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. kibosh · noun/ˈkaɪbɑːʃ/

   a stoppage or rejection of progress or plans

   The unexpected budget cuts put the kibosh on the community center renovation project.

   Synonyms: stop, halt, block

   Origin: The origin of 'kibosh' is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from the Yiddish term 'kibosh', possibly influenced by the Irish word 'cabaise', meaning 'to put an end to'.

2. kindle · verb/ˈkɪndəl/

   to ignite or light a fire or to inspire or awaken feelings or emotions

   The campers used dry leaves and twigs to kindle the fire quickly and safely.

   Synonyms: ignite, light, inspire

   Origin: Originates from Old Norse 'kyndar', meaning to light or start a fire.

3. mollycoddle · verb/ˈmɑːliˌkɑːdl/

   to treat someone with excessive kindness or indulgence

   She tends to mollycoddle her children, giving them whatever they want to avoid any disappointment.

   Synonyms: pamper, indulge, spoil

   Origin: The word 'mollycoddle' originated in the early 19th century, likely derived from a combination of 'Molly', a diminutive form of 'Mary', and 'coddle', meaning to treat with excessive care.

4. irk · verb/ɜrk/

   to irritate or annoy someone

   It tends to irk me when people chew loudly during meetings.

   Synonyms: bother, irritate, annoy

   Origin: The word 'irk' comes from the late Middle English 'irke', which is of uncertain origin, possibly derived from a Scandinavian word.

5. obliterate · verb/əˈblɪt̬.ə.reɪt/

   to completely destroy or remove all traces of something

   The powerful explosion was enough to obliterate the entire building, leaving no evidence of its existence.

   Synonyms: annihilate, eradicate

   Origin: from the Latin 'obliterare', meaning 'to erase, to blot out'