implode, repel, fluctuate, perturb, overthrow: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 35. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. implode · verb/ɪmˈploʊd/

   collapse inward violently due to external pressure

   The old, abandoned building was left to decay, and eventually, it began to implode under its own weight.

   Synonyms: collapse, cave in, crumple

   Origin: from Latin 'implodere', where 'in-' means 'in' and 'plaudere' means 'to strike'

2. repel · verb/rɪˈpɛl/

   to drive or force back or away

   The strong scent of the flowers helped to repel insects from the garden.

   Synonyms: repulse, drive away, fend off

   Origin: from Latin 'repellere', meaning 'to drive back', composed of 're-' (back) + 'pellere' (to drive)

3. fluctuate · verb/ˈflʌk.tʃu.eɪt/

   to rise and fall irregularly in number or amount

   The stock prices tend to fluctuate significantly during market hours, causing both excitement and anxiety among investors.

   Synonyms: vary, oscillate, swing

   Origin: from Latin 'fluctuare', from 'fluctus' meaning 'a wave'

4. perturb · verb/pərˈtɜrb/

   to disturb or disquiet greatly in mind

   The unexpected news about the layoffs began to perturb the employees, causing anxiety throughout the office.

   Synonyms: disturb, agitate, unsettle

   Origin: Latin 'perturbare', from 'per-' meaning 'completely' and 'turbare' meaning 'to disturb'

5. overthrow · verb/ˈoʊvərˌθroʊ/

   to remove from power or control by force

   The rebels aimed to overthrow the oppressive regime that had ruled for decades.

   Synonyms: upend, topple, oust

   Origin: from Middle English 'overthrowen', from 'over-' + 'throw' (Old English 'þrowian')