deify, stigmatize, sermonize, vilify, recompense: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 272. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. deify · verb/ˈdiːəfaɪ/

   to treat or regard as a god

   Many ancient cultures would deify their leaders after death, believing they became gods who could influence the living.

   Synonyms: idolize, worship, exalt

   Origin: from Latin 'deificare', meaning 'to make a god of'; 'deus' means 'god' and 'facere' means 'to make'

2. stigmatize · verb/ˈstɪɡ.mə.taɪz/

   to mark someone or something as disgraceful or shameful

   Many people still stigmatize mental health issues, making it difficult for individuals to seek help.

   Synonyms: disgrace, brand, shame

   Origin: from the Greek word 'stigma', meaning 'a mark or brand'.

3. sermonize · verb/ˈsɜr.mə.naɪz/

   to deliver a sermon or to speak in a moralizing or didactic manner

   During the meeting, he chose to sermonize about the importance of integrity in the workplace.

   Synonyms: preach, lecture, moralize

   Origin: derived from the Middle English word 'sermone' meaning sermon, from Old French 'sermoun', from Latin 'sermō', which means discourse or conversation.

4. vilify · verb/ˈvɪlɪˌfaɪ/

   to speak or write about in an abusive or disparaging manner

   The media tends to vilify public figures without considering the full context of their actions.

   Synonyms: denigrate, slander, defame

   Origin: from Latin 'vilificare', meaning 'to render vile'

5. recompense · verb/ˈrɛk.əm.pɛns/

   to make amends or return something in kind for a loss or injury

   The company promised to recompense the employees for their overtime work during the busy season.

   Synonyms: compensate, repay, reimburse

   Origin: Middle English recompensen, from Old French recompensier, from Latin recompensare, where 're-' means 'again' and 'compensare' means 'to weigh one thing against another.'