divulge, dispel, synthesize, unearth, irrigate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 211. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. divulge · verb/dɪˈvʌldʒ/

   to make information known to others

   The manager decided to divulge confidential information to the team during the meeting.

   Synonyms: reveal, disclose, impart

   Origin: from Middle French 'divulguer', from Latin 'divulgare', meaning 'to make known' (di- 'apart' + vulgare 'to make common')

2. dispel · verb/dɪˈspɛl/

   to drive away or eliminate something such as a belief, feeling, or doubt

   The scientist aimed to dispel the myths surrounding climate change with concrete evidence and studies.

   Synonyms: dissipate, disperse

   Origin: from Latin 'dispellere', combining 'dis-' (away) and 'pellere' (to drive)

3. synthesize · verb/ˈsɪnθəˌsaɪz/

   to combine different elements to create a coherent whole

   Researchers often synthesize data from multiple studies to draw more comprehensive conclusions.

   Synonyms: combine, integrate, amalgamate

   Origin: The word 'synthesize' comes from the Greek word 'synthesis', which means 'putting together'. The prefix 'syn-' means 'together' and 'thesis' means 'putting' or 'placing'.

4. unearth · verb/ʌnˈɜrθ/

   to discover or bring to light something hidden or buried

   Archaeologists plan to unearth ancient artifacts buried beneath the city, hoping to learn more about its history.

   Synonyms: discover, uncover, reveal

   Origin: The word 'unearth' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with 'earth', which refers to the ground or soil; it literally means to bring to light from under the earth.

5. irrigate · verb/ˈɪr.ɪ.ɡeɪt/

   to supply water to land or crops to help them grow

   Farmers often use a network of canals to irrigate their fields during the dry season.

   Synonyms: water, supply, hydrate

   Origin: from Latin 'irrigare', meaning 'to water, to wet', from 'in-' meaning 'in, into' and 'ragare' meaning 'to wet'.