dissolve, fluctuate, fade, foresee, absorb: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from IELTS Vocabulary set 83. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. dissolve · verb/dɪˈzɑlv/

   to cause to become incorporated into a liquid or to disappear from view

   When you stir sugar into your coffee, it will quickly dissolve, making the drink sweet and enjoyable.

   Synonyms: solubilize, melt, disappear

   Origin: From Latin 'dissolvere', meaning 'to loosen or dissolve', composed of 'dis-' (apart) and 'solvere' (to loosen or free).

2. fluctuate · verb/ˈflʌk.tʃuˌeɪt/

   to rise and fall irregularly in number or amount

   The stock prices tend to fluctuate significantly during times of economic uncertainty.

   Synonyms: vary, oscillate, waver

   Origin: from Latin 'fluctuare', meaning 'to flow' or 'to wave'

3. fade · verb/feɪd/

   to gradually disappear or lose brightness or intensity

   As the sun began to set, the vibrant colors of the sky started to fade into darkness.

   Synonyms: diminish, wane, dissipate

   Origin: Middle English 'faden', from Old French 'fader', of Germanic origin

4. foresee · verb/fɔrˈsi/

   to anticipate or predict a future event

   Experts can foresee significant changes in the economy over the next few years.

   Synonyms: anticipate, predict, envision

   Origin: from Old English 'forseean', meaning 'to see beforehand'.

5. absorb · verb/əbˈzɔrb/

   to take in or soak up a substance or information

   The sponge can easily absorb water, making it perfect for cleaning up spills.

   Synonyms: soak up, take in, assimilate

   Origin: from Latin 'absorbere', meaning 'to swallow up' (ab- 'from' + sorbere 'to suck in')