transform, celebrate, suppose, streamline, distinguish: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 16. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. transform · verb/trænsˈfɔrm/

   to change in form, appearance, or structure

   The artist's innovative techniques can transform a blank canvas into a vibrant masterpiece.

   Synonyms: change, convert, alter

   Origin: from Latin 'transformare', where 'trans-' means 'across' and 'formare' means 'to form' or 'to shape'.

2. celebrate · verb/ˈsɛləˌbret/

   to publicly acknowledge a significant or happy event with social activities or ceremonies

   The community came together to celebrate the festival with music and dancing.

   Synonyms: commemorate, observe, honor

   Origin: from Latin 'celebratus', past participle of 'celebrare', meaning to frequent, celebrate, or honor

3. suppose · verb/səˈpoʊz/

   to assume something to be true for the sake of argument or discussion

   Let's suppose for a moment that we actually had unlimited resources; what could we achieve?

   Synonyms: assume, presume, postulate

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French 'supposer' or Latin 'supponere', based on 'sub-' meaning 'under' + 'ponere' meaning 'to place'.

4. streamline · verb/ˈstriːmlaɪn/

   to design or provide with a form that reduces resistance to motion in air or fluid

   The engineers worked tirelessly to streamline the aircraft's design, making it more aerodynamic for improved fuel efficiency.

   Synonyms: smooth, simplify, optimize

   Origin: The word 'streamline' is derived from the combination of 'stream,' referring to a steady flow of water or air, and the suffix '-line,' which suggests a form or shape. It originated in the early 20th century, especially in the context of aerodynamics and industrial design.

5. distinguish · verb/dɪsˈtɪŋɡwɪʃ/

   to recognize or note differences between two or more things

   It can be difficult to distinguish between the two species of birds without careful observation.

   Synonyms: differentiate, discern, discriminate

   Origin: from Old French 'distincere', from Latin 'distinguere', meaning 'to separate between'.