comply, rely, terminate, devise, embrace: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 223. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. comply · verb/kəmˈplaɪ/

   to act in accordance with a wish or command

   The company must comply with the new environmental regulations set by the government.

   Synonyms: obey, conform, adhere

   Origin: Originates from the late Middle English 'compleien', from Old French 'complir', from Latin 'complere', meaning to fill up, complete.

2. rely · verb/rɪˈlaɪ/

   to depend on with full trust or confidence

   I always rely on my best friend to support me during tough times.

   Synonyms: depend, trust, count on

   Origin: from Old French 'relier', from Latin 'religere' meaning 'to tie back, bind'

3. terminate · verb/ˈtɜr.mɪ.neɪt/

   to bring to an end or halt

   The company decided to terminate the employee's contract due to repeated violations of company policy.

   Synonyms: end, conclude, stop

   Origin: from Latin 'terminare', meaning 'to limit, end, or bound'

4. devise · verb/dɪˈvaɪz/

   to create, plan, or invent something by careful thought

   The committee met to devise a new strategy for the upcoming project.

   Synonyms: invent, formulate, conceive

   Origin: Middle English 'devysen,' from Old French 'devise,' from Latin 'divisare' meaning 'to divide, arrange' or 'devisare' meaning 'to describe, to draw out plans.'

5. embrace · verb/ɪmˈbreɪs/

   to hold someone closely in one's arms as a way of showing love or friendship

   After a long time apart, she ran to him and they embraced tightly, feeling the warmth of their friendship.

   Synonyms: hug, clasp, encircle

   Origin: from Middle English 'embracen', originating from Old French 'embracer', from Latin 'imbracare' meaning 'to encircle in the arms'