deprecate, abolish, deter, aggregate, enlighten: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 82. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. deprecate · verb/ˈdɛprɪˌkeɪt/

   to express disapproval of or argue against something

   The committee decided to deprecate the outdated policies that no longer serve the community's needs.

   Synonyms: disapprove, condemn, criticize

   Origin: from Latin 'deprecari', meaning 'to pray against' or 'to express disapproval'

2. abolish · verb/əˈbɑː.lɪʃ/

   to formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution

   The government decided to abolish the outdated law that restricted freedom of speech.

   Synonyms: cancel, eradicate, terminate

   Origin: from Latin 'abolire', meaning 'to destroy, to annul'

3. deter · verb/dɪˈtɜr/

   to discourage or prevent someone from taking a particular action

   The high costs of living in the city can deter potential homebuyers from making a purchase.

   Synonyms: discourage, dissuade, prevent

   Origin: from Latin 'deterrere', meaning 'to frighten away' or 'to deter'

4. aggregate · noun/ˈæɡrɪɡɪt/

   a whole formed by combining several separate elements

   The aggregate of all the data collected from the surveys provided insightful trends about customer preferences.

   Synonyms: total, sum, collection

   Origin: from Latin 'aggregatus', past participle of 'aggregare', meaning 'to add to' or 'to bring together'

5. enlighten · verb/ɪnˈlaɪtən/

   to give someone greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation

   The seminar aimed to enlighten attendees about the importance of environmental conservation.

   Synonyms: inform, educate, illuminate

   Origin: from Middle English 'enlighten', from 'en-' (a prefix meaning 'to cause to be in') + 'lighten' (to lighten or illuminate), from Old English 'leohtean'.