to engage in an activity in a casual or superficial way
example
She likes to dabble in painting during her free time, even though she has no formal training.
synonyms
tinkertriflefiddle
word origin — The word 'dabble' originates from the Middle English 'dabelen', which is of uncertain origin, possibly influenced by the verb 'dab' meaning to move or splash in water.
dabble, topple, instill, dissipate, despise: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 214. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
dabble · verb/ˈdæb.əl/
to engage in an activity in a casual or superficial way
She likes to dabble in painting during her free time, even though she has no formal training.
Synonyms: tinker, trifle, fiddle
Origin: The word 'dabble' originates from the Middle English 'dabelen', which is of uncertain origin, possibly influenced by the verb 'dab' meaning to move or splash in water.
topple · verb/ˈtɑː.pəl/
to fall or overturn due to an unbalanced position
The strong wind caused the old tree to topple over, leaving a huge mess in the yard.
Synonyms: overturn, topple over, knock over
Origin: The word 'topple' originates from the early 16th century, likely from the word 'top' meaning the highest point, with the suffix '-le' suggesting the action of becoming unbalanced or falling.
instill · verb/ɪnˈstɪl/
to gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person's mind
Parents should strive to instill a sense of responsibility in their children from a young age.
Synonyms: inspire, infuse, implant
Origin: From Latin 'instillare', meaning 'to drop in' or 'to trickle in', from 'in-' (into) + 'stillare' (to drip).
dissipate · verb/ˈdɪs.ɪ.peɪt/
to scatter or disperse widely
As the sunlight began to break through the clouds, the morning mist started to dissipate into the air.
Synonyms: disperse, scatter, diffuse
Origin: Originates from the Latin 'dissipare', meaning 'to scatter, to disperse', from 'dis-' (apart) + 'sparsus' (scattered).
despise · verb/dɪˈspaɪz/
to regard with contempt or scorn
She grew to despise the way he treated his employees, finding it utterly unacceptable.
Synonyms: disdain, scorn
Origin: from Old French 'despiser', from Latin 'despicere' meaning 'to look down on'