SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 121

Set 121 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: aspire, deplete, alter, advocate, evolve. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. aspire · verb/əˈspaɪr/

   to have a strong desire or ambition to achieve something

   Many young artists aspire to become successful in their craft and gain recognition for their work.

   Synonyms: desire, aim, long for

   Origin: from Latin 'aspirare', meaning 'to breathe upon, to desire, to seek after'

2. deplete · verb/dɪˈpliːt/

   to diminish in quantity or quality

   The constant overfishing in the region will deplete the fish population if strict regulations are not implemented soon.

   Synonyms: exhaust, drain, diminish

   Origin: from Latin 'depletus', past participle of 'deplere', meaning 'to empty, drain off' (from 'de-' meaning 'down' and 'plere' meaning 'to fill')

3. alter · verb/ˈɔːl.tɚ/

   to change or modify something

   The designer had to alter the dress to ensure it fit her perfectly for the upcoming event.

   Synonyms: change, modify, adjust

   Origin: From Latin 'alterare', meaning 'to make different'.

4. advocate · noun/ˈæd.və.keɪt/

   a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy

   She has long been an advocate for environmental protection, speaking at various conferences to raise awareness.

   Synonyms: supporter, champion, proponent

   Origin: From Latin 'advocatus', meaning 'one called to aid' or 'a lawyer', derived from 'ad-' (to) + 'vocare' (to call)

5. evolve · verb/ɪˈvɑlv/

   to develop gradually over time through a series of changes

   Over millions of years, species have evolved to adapt to their changing environments.

   Synonyms: develop, progress, advance

   Origin: from Latin 'evolvere', meaning 'to unroll, unfold', from 'e-' (variant of 'ex-', meaning 'out') + 'volvere' (to roll)