hinder, cater, illuminate, gain, declare: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 137. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. hinder · verb/ˈhɪndər/

   to create difficulties for someone or something resulting in delay or obstruction

   The heavy rain will hinder our ability to complete the construction project on time.

   Synonyms: obstruct, impede, delay

   Origin: Middle English, from Old English 'hindrian', meaning 'to hinder, prevent'.

2. cater · verb/ˈkeɪtər/

   to provide food and services for a special event

   The company decided to cater the wedding reception with a gourmet buffet and a selection of fine wines.

   Synonyms: provide, supply, serve

   Origin: Middle English 'catere', from Old French 'cater', which in turn is from Latin 'capere', meaning 'to seize or take'.

3. illuminate · verb/ɪˈluː.məˌneɪt/

   to light up or make clear

   The streetlights illuminated the path, making it safer for the evening walkers.

   Synonyms: brighten, clarify, elucidate

   Origin: from Latin 'illuminare', meaning 'to light up, to brighten'

4. gain · noun/ɡeɪn/

   an increase or improvement in something

   The company's recent advertising campaign resulted in a significant gain in its market share.

   Synonyms: increase, improvement, benefit

   Origin: from Middle English 'gane', from Old French 'gaignier', meaning to earn or acquire

5. declare · verb/dɪˈklɛr/

   to make a statement or announcement formally or officially

   The president will declare a state of emergency in response to the natural disaster.

   Synonyms: announce, proclaim, state

   Origin: Middle English: from Latin 'declarare', from 'de-' meaning 'completely' + 'clarare' meaning 'to make clear'