recuperate, douse, seep, reproach, vindicate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 69. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. recuperate · verb/rɪˈkuːpəˌreɪt/

   to recover or regain health, strength, or well-being

   After her surgery, she took a few weeks off work to recuperate her strength before returning to her busy schedule.

   Synonyms: recover, convalesce, restore

   Origin: The word 'recuperate' comes from the Latin word 'recuperare', which means 'to gain back' or 'to recover'.

2. douse · verb/daʊs/

   to extinguish a fire or light by pouring a liquid over it

   The firefighter quickly doused the flames with water, preventing the fire from spreading further.

   Synonyms: extinguish, quench, smother

   Origin: Originating from Middle English 'dousen', which is thought to be of uncertain origin, likely influenced by the word 'douse' in similar contexts.

3. seep · verb/sip/

   to flow or leak slowly through porous material or small openings

   The water began to seep through the cracks in the old foundation, causing concern for the homeowners.

   Synonyms: ooze, leak, trickle

   Origin: Middle English 'sepen', from Old English 'sēopan', meaning 'to flow out slowly'

4. reproach · verb/rɪˈproʊtʃ/

   to express disappointment or disapproval

   She reproached him for forgetting their anniversary, making it clear how disappointed she felt.

   Synonyms: rebuke, reprimand, scold

   Origin: Middle English 'reprochen', from Old French 'reprochier', from Latin 'reprochare', meaning 'to reproach, blame'.

5. vindicate · verb/ˈvɪndɪˌkeɪt/

   to clear from blame or suspicion

   The evidence presented during the trial served to vindicate her claims of innocence.

   Synonyms: absolve, exonerate, clear

   Origin: From Latin 'vindicatus', past participle of 'vindicare', meaning to claim, avenge, or protect.