betoken, tarry, quaff, ingrain, scurry: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 301. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. betoken · verb/bɪˈtoʊ.kən/

   to be a sign of or symbolize

   The dark clouds betoken an impending storm, warning us to take precautions.

   Synonyms: signify, indicate, symbolize

   Origin: from Middle English 'betokenen', from be- + token, meaning to mark or signify.

2. tarry · verb/ˈtɛri/

   to delay or linger in expectation or pursuit

   We cannot tarry any longer at this rest stop if we want to reach our destination before nightfall.

   Synonyms: dawdle, linger, delay

   Origin: Middle English 'tarien', derived from the Old English 'terrian', meaning to delay or hinder

3. quaff · verb/kwɑf/

   to drink something heartily or greedily

   After a long day of hiking, we sat around the campfire and quaffed our cold drinks with great enthusiasm.

   Synonyms: guzzle, sip, imbibe

   Origin: Originating from the early 16th century, possibly from the Middle English 'quaffen' or 'quaff,' which is imitative of the sound of drinking.

4. ingrain · verb/ɪnˈɡreɪn/

   to firmly establish a habit, belief, or attitude in a person or group

   Parents often strive to ingrain a sense of responsibility in their children from an early age.

   Synonyms: instill, embed, root

   Origin: Early 17th century: from in- 'into' + grain.

5. scurry · verb/ˈskɜr.i/

   to move briskly and quickly with short steps

   The children began to scurry around the playground, laughing and playing tag.

   Synonyms: hurry, scamper, dash

   Origin: Late Middle English: probably from the Scottish dialect 'scurrie', 'to run' or from Middle Dutch 'schorren', meaning 'to move quickly'.