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dramatize

verb/ˈdræməˌtaɪz/

definition

to present a story or situation in a dramatic way to make it more exciting or emotional

example

The playwright decided to dramatize the historical events to make the audience feel the emotional intensity of the characters' struggles.

synonyms
theatricalizesensationalizeelaborate
word origin — from the word 'drama,' derived from the Greek 'drama,' meaning 'action' or 'deed'

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 138

Set 138 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: dramatize, retaliate, solemnize, upbraid, pulverize. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. dramatize · verb/ˈdræməˌtaɪz/

    to present a story or situation in a dramatic way to make it more exciting or emotional

    The playwright decided to dramatize the historical events to make the audience feel the emotional intensity of the characters' struggles.

    Synonyms: theatricalize, sensationalize, elaborate

    Origin: from the word 'drama,' derived from the Greek 'drama,' meaning 'action' or 'deed'

  2. retaliate · verb/rɪˈtæl.i.eɪt/

    to take revenge or respond to an injustice or harm

    After being unfairly criticized by her colleague, she decided to retaliate by exposing his own mistakes in the next team meeting.

    Synonyms: revenge, requite, avenge

    Origin: from Latin 'retaliatus', past participle of 'retaliare' meaning 'to pay back, retaliate'

  3. solemnize · verb/ˈsɑː.ləm.naɪz/

    to perform a formal ceremony or ritual

    The couple decided to solemnize their marriage in a beautiful outdoor ceremony surrounded by close friends and family.

    Synonyms: celebrate, officiate, conduct

    Origin: The word 'solemnize' originates from the Latin 'sollemnis', meaning 'ceremonial' or 'formal'. It was adopted into Middle English in the late 14th century.

  4. upbraid · verb/ʌpˈbreɪd/

    to scold or criticize someone severely

    The teacher decided to upbraid the student for repeatedly turning in late assignments.

    Synonyms: rebuke, reprimand, scold

    Origin: Middle English 'upbraiden', from 'up' + 'braiden' (to reproach, to reproach a person) of uncertain origin.

  5. pulverize · verb/ˈpʌlvəraɪz/

    to reduce to fine particles or dust

    The chef decided to pulverize the spices to release their full flavor before adding them to the dish.

    Synonyms: grind, crush, mill

    Origin: From Latin 'pulverizare', from 'pulvis' meaning 'dust'.