pamper, coax, mince, intimidate, balk: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 338. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. pamper · verb/ˈpæmpɚ/

   to indulge with excessive care or attention

   After a long week at work, I decided to pamper myself with a luxurious spa day.

   Synonyms: spoil, indulge, cater to

   Origin: Originating from the late Middle English word 'pamperen,' which is of uncertain origin, possibly related to 'pampering' or a diminutive form of 'pampe' (to touch lightly).

2. coax · verb/koʊks/

   to gently persuade someone to do something

   She tried to coax her shy cat out from under the bed with some treats.

   Synonyms: persuade, entice, cajole

   Origin: The word 'coax' originated in the late 16th century, likely from the word 'coaxen', which is a reduplication of the word 'coax', itself believed to be derived from the dialect word 'cokes', meaning to deceive or jest.

3. mince · verb/mɪns/

   to cut or chop food into very small pieces

   Before adding it to the sauce, you should mince the garlic finely to enhance the flavor.

   Synonyms: chop, grind, dice

   Origin: Middle English 'mincen', from Old French 'mincier', meaning 'to grind or chop'.

4. intimidate · verb/ɪnˈtɪm.ɪ.deɪt/

   to frighten or make someone feel afraid especially in order to compel them to act

   The bully tried to intimidate the younger kids into giving him their lunch money.

   Synonyms: frighten, threaten, scare

   Origin: Early 16th century: from Latin 'intimidat-', from the verb 'intimidare', which means 'to frighten'.

5. balk · verb/bɔk/

   to hesitate or refuse to proceed or act

   Despite the promising opportunity, she decided to balk at pursuing the risky investment.

   Synonyms: hesitate, hesitate, recoil

   Origin: Middle English 'balke', from Old Norse 'balkr' meaning 'ridge, beam, or bank'