illustrate, occupy, render, brood, ascend: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 20. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. illustrate · verb/ˈɪl.ə.streɪt/

   to explain or make something clear by providing examples or visual representations

   The teacher used a diagram to illustrate the complex concept of photosynthesis for her students.

   Synonyms: explain, clarify, depict

   Origin: from Latin 'illustra-re', meaning 'to light up, to make clear'

2. occupy · verb/ˈɑːkjəˌpaɪ/

   to take up space or control a place or position

   The large furniture pieces occupy a significant amount of space in the small living room.

   Synonyms: inhabit, reside, control

   Origin: From Latin 'occupare', meaning 'to seize or take possession of'

3. render · verb/ˈrɛndər/

   to provide or give something, to cause to be in a particular state

   The generous donation will render significant help to the local charity.

   Synonyms: provide, supply, give

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'rendre', from Latin 'reddere' meaning 'to give back'

4. brood · noun/brud/

   a group of young animals born to one mother at one time

   The mother hen carefully tended to her brood of chicks, ensuring they stayed warm and safe.

   Synonyms: clutch, litter, offspring

   Origin: Old English 'brōod', meaning 'to breed'.

5. ascend · verb/əˈsɛnd/

   to move upward or rise to a higher position or level

   As the sun began to rise, the hot air balloon started to ascend into the clear blue sky.

   Synonyms: rise, climb, soar

   Origin: from Latin 'ascendere', which means 'to climb up'