polarize, impart, beseech, lament, engross: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 220. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. polarize · verb/ˈpoʊləˌraɪz/

   to cause people or groups to divide into opposing factions or groups

   The controversial new policy is likely to polarize public opinion on the matter.

   Synonyms: divide, separate, split

   Origin: The word 'polarize' comes from the late 19th century, derived from the word 'polar' which is from the Latin 'polaris' meaning 'of the pole', combined with the suffix '-ize' to form a verb.

2. impart · verb/ɪmˈpɑrt/

   to make information known or to communicate something

   The teacher aimed to impart knowledge to her students through engaging lessons.

   Synonyms: communicate, convey, disclose

   Origin: Middle English 'imparten', from Old French 'imparter', from Latin 'impartire' meaning 'to share, distribute'

3. beseech · verb/bɪˈsiːtʃ/

   to implore or request urgently and fervently

   I beseech you to reconsider your decision before it's too late.

   Synonyms: implore, beg, plead

   Origin: Middle English 'besechen', from Old English 'besecean', meaning to seek or to go to.

4. lament · noun/ləˈmɛnt/

   a passionate expression of grief or sorrow

   The mourners gathered to share their lament for the beloved community leader who had passed away suddenly.

   Synonyms: mourning, wailing, dirge

   Origin: Middle English from Latin 'lamentari', meaning to mourn or express sorrow

5. engross · verb/ɪnˈɡroʊs/

   to occupy one's attention completely

   The captivating novel was so well-written that it completely engrossed me from the very first page.

   Synonyms: absorb, captivate, engage

   Origin: from Middle English 'engros', derived from Old French 'engrosser', from 'en-' (in) + 'gros' (large, thick), meaning to make large or occupy fully