baffle, vacate, wag, scrutinize, indict: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 258. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. baffle · verb/ˈbæfəl/

   to confuse or perplex someone

   The complex math problem seemed to baffle the students during the exam.

   Synonyms: confuse, perplex, bewilder

   Origin: Middle English 'bafle', likely from Old French 'bafler' meaning to stammer or to confuse.

2. vacate · verb/veɪˈkeɪt/

   to leave a place that one previously occupied

   The tenants were required to vacate the premises by the end of the month.

   Synonyms: depart, leave, abandon

   Origin: from Latin 'vacare' meaning 'to be empty' or 'to be free'.

3. wag · verb/wæɡ/

   to move back and forth or side to side with quick motions

   The dog began to wag its tail excitedly when it saw its owner coming home.

   Synonyms: sway, swing, shake

   Origin: Middle English 'waggen', from Old Norse 'vagga', meaning to move or sway

4. scrutinize · verb/ˈskruːtəˌnaɪz/

   to examine or inspect closely and thoroughly

   The committee decided to scrutinize the financial reports to ensure there were no discrepancies.

   Synonyms: examine, inspect, analyze

   Origin: Late Latin 'scrutinizare', from Latin 'scrutinium' meaning 'a search or inquiry'

5. indict · verb/ɪnˈdaɪkt/

   to formally accuse someone of a crime

   The grand jury decided to indict the suspect after reviewing the evidence presented to them.

   Synonyms: accuse, charge, arraign

   Origin: from Latin 'indictare', meaning 'to declare', from 'dicere' meaning 'to say'