Set 245 · Study 1 / 5

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relent

verb/rɪˈlɛnt/

definition

to become less severe or intense

example

After hours of negotiation, the manager finally decided to relent on the strict deadline for the project.

synonyms
yieldsoftenlessen
word origin — Middle English 'relenten', from Old French 'relentir', from Latin 'relentere', meaning to let go, slacken.

SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 245

Set 245 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: relent, hoard, delimit, conjure, canvass. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. relent · verb/rɪˈlɛnt/

    to become less severe or intense

    After hours of negotiation, the manager finally decided to relent on the strict deadline for the project.

    Synonyms: yield, soften, lessen

    Origin: Middle English 'relenten', from Old French 'relentir', from Latin 'relentere', meaning to let go, slacken.

  2. hoard · noun/hɔrd/

    a stock or store of valuable items or money that is kept secret or hidden

    The old treasure map led the adventurers to a hidden hoard of gold coins buried beneath the ancient oak tree.

    Synonyms: stash, cache, reserve

    Origin: Middle English 'horden,' from Old English 'hord,' meaning a treasure or a store.

  3. delimit · verb/dɪˈlɪmɪt/

    to establish the limits or boundaries of something

    The committee worked diligently to delimit the areas where construction could take place, ensuring minimal disruption to the local wildlife.

    Synonyms: define, specify, restrict

    Origin: from Latin 'de-' meaning 'from' and 'limitatus' meaning 'limited'

  4. conjure · verb/ˈkɑn.dʒɚ/

    to summon a spirit or bring to mind as if by magic

    The magician was able to conjure a magnificent dragon from thin air, astounding everyone in the audience.

    Synonyms: evoke, summon, invoke

    Origin: From Middle English 'conjuren', from Latin 'conjurare', meaning 'to swear together' or 'to call upon'.

  5. canvass · verb/ˈkæn.vəs/

    to solicit votes or opinions from individuals or to conduct a thorough examination or survey

    The campaign team decided to canvass the neighborhood to gather opinions on the new policy proposals.

    Synonyms: survey, solicit, poll

    Origin: The word 'canvass' comes from the earlier form 'canvass', derived from the canvas used to 'canvas' or examine opinions. It is thought to originate from the word 'canvass' which meant to sift or examine closely, possibly influenced by 'canvas', as in to cover or scrutinize.