lessen, evaluate, unite, humiliate, address: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 125. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. lessen · verb/ˈlɛs.ən/

   to make or become less in amount, degree, or intensity

   Regular exercise can help lessen the risk of chronic diseases.

   Synonyms: diminish, decrease, reduce

   Origin: Old English 'læs', meaning 'less', related to the Proto-Germanic '*laisaz'.

2. evaluate · verb/ɪˈvæljʊˌeɪt/

   to assess the value or quality of something

   Before making a decision, it's important to evaluate the options available to ensure the best outcome.

   Synonyms: assess, appraise, assess

   Origin: from Latin 'evaluare', which means 'to value' or 'to assess'

3. unite · verb/juˈnaɪt/

   to come together to form a single entity or to join in a common purpose

   In order to achieve our goals, it is essential to unite efforts and work collaboratively as a team.

   Synonyms: join, merge, combine

   Origin: From Latin 'unire', which means 'to join together', derived from 'unus', meaning 'one'.

4. humiliate · verb/hjuˈmɪl.iˌeɪt/

   to cause someone to feel ashamed or embarrassed

   The teacher humiliated the student in front of the class by pointing out his mistakes.

   Synonyms: shame, embarrass, mortify

   Origin: from Latin 'humiliare', meaning 'to humble', from 'humilis' meaning 'lowly'

5. address · noun/əˈdrɛs/

   the location of a person or organization for communication purposes

   Please send the package to my new address as soon as possible.

   Synonyms: location, residence, domicile

   Origin: Middle English adres, from Old French adrecier, meaning 'to direct, set straight', from Latin ad- 'to' + rectus 'straight'.