defeat, deprive, determine, whisper, devastate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 67. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. defeat · noun/dɪˈfiːt/

   the loss of a contest or battle

   The team's defeat in the championship game left the players devastated and eager to train harder for next season.

   Synonyms: loss, setback, failure

   Origin: from Middle French 'defaite', from the verb 'defaire' which means 'to undo, to defeat'; derived from Latin 'defacere'

2. deprive · verb/dɪˈpraɪv/

   to take away or hinder the enjoyment of something

   The long winter storms can deprive children of the chance to play outside during their break.

   Synonyms: strip, divest, rob

   Origin: From Latin 'deprivare', from 'de-' meaning 'away' and 'privare' meaning 'to deprive, bereave'.

3. determine · verb/dɪˈtɝː.mɪn/

   to ascertain or establish something through analysis or calculation

   The researchers used advanced algorithms to determine the most efficient way to allocate resources.

   Synonyms: ascertain, establish, decide

   Origin: The word 'determine' comes from the Latin 'determinare', meaning 'to set limits, to fix'.

4. whisper · noun/ˈwɪspər/

   a soft or low voice used for speaking quietly

   The teacher spoke in a whisper so as not to disturb the students working on their assignments.

   Synonyms: murmur, murmur, hiss

   Origin: Middle English 'whispra', influenced by Old English 'hwisprian', meaning to speak softly or quietly.

5. devastate · verb/ˈdɛvəˌsteɪt/

   to cause severe and overwhelming shock or grief

   The news of her sudden passing will devastate her family and friends, leaving them in profound grief.

   Synonyms: destroy, overwhelm, shock

   Origin: from Latin 'devastare', meaning 'to lay waste', from 'de-' (completely) + 'vastare' (to lay waste)