authenticate, nip, disappear, insist, disguise: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 259. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. authenticate · verb/ɔˈθɛn.tɪ.keɪt/

   to verify or validate the identity or authenticity of something

   The IT department must authenticate the user's identity before granting access to the secure files.

   Synonyms: verify, validate, substantiate

   Origin: from Middle French 'authentifier', from Late Latin 'authenticare', from Greek 'authentikos', meaning 'genuine' or 'real'

2. nip · verb/nɪp/

   to pinch or squeeze sharply

   Make sure to nip that budding issue in the bud before it escalates further.

   Synonyms: pinch, squeeze, grab

   Origin: Middle English 'nippen', of uncertain origin; likely from Old Norse 'nippa'.

3. disappear · verb/ˌdɪsəˈpɪr/

   to cease to be visible or to vanish from sight

   As the sun began to set, the colors of the sky seemed to disappear into darkness.

   Synonyms: vanish, fade, evaporate

   Origin: From Middle French 'disparaitre', from Latin 'disparere', meaning 'to come apart, to be absent'.

4. insist · verb/ɪnˈsɪst/

   to demand forcefully or persistently

   Despite the objections, she insisted on attending the meeting to voice her concerns.

   Synonyms: demand, assert, maintain

   Origin: From Latin insistere, meaning 'to stand on' or 'to stand firm'.

5. disguise · verb/dɪsˈɡaɪz/

   to change or conceal one's appearance or identity

   She decided to disguise her true identity by wearing a mask and a wig at the masquerade ball.

   Synonyms: conceal, hide, mask

   Origin: The word 'disguise' originates from the Old French 'disguiser', meaning to 'put out of sight' or 'to conceal'.