faze, demur, writhe, impinge, clamber: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 265. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. faze · verb/feɪz/

   to disturb or disconcert someone

   Despite the unexpected criticism, she refused to let it faze her and continued with her presentation confidently.

   Synonyms: dismay, unsettle, disturb

   Origin: Originated in the early 19th century as a variant of 'faze' (to cause to be disturbed), possibly influenced by the word 'phase'.

2. demur · verb/dɪˈmɜr/

   to raise doubts or objections or show reluctance

   Despite her initial enthusiasm, she began to demur at the suggestion of taking on more responsibilities at work.

   Synonyms: object, protest, hesitate

   Origin: from Middle French 'demourer', meaning 'to remain, linger', from Latin 'morari', meaning 'to delay, linger'

3. writhe · verb/raɪð/

   to twist or squirm in pain or discomfort

   After the fall, he began to writhe in pain on the ground, clutching his ankle tightly.

   Synonyms: squirm, twist, contort

   Origin: Old English 'writhan' meaning 'to twist' or 'to turn', related to the German 'winden' meaning 'to wind'.

4. impinge · verb/ɪmˈpɪndʒ/

   to have an effect or impact, especially in a negative way

   The heavy construction work nearby began to impinge on my ability to concentrate during the day.

   Synonyms: affect, influence, encroach

   Origin: from Latin 'impingere', meaning 'to strike against', from 'in-' meaning 'upon' and 'pangere' meaning 'to strike'

5. clamber · verb/ˈklæmbər/

   to climb or move in an awkward or laborious way

   The children had to clamber over the fallen logs to reach the other side of the river.

   Synonyms: scramble, climb, ascend

   Origin: Middle English 'clamberen', of unknown origin