censure, expose, burgeon, dominate, evolve: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 157. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. censure · verb/ˈsɛnʃər/

   express severe disapproval of someone or something

   The committee decided to censure the official for his inappropriate remarks during the meeting.

   Synonyms: criticize, reprimand, rebuke

   Origin: from Latin 'censura', meaning 'judgment, assessment'

2. expose · verb/ɪkˈspoʊz/

   to make something visible or reveal something that was hidden

   The documentary aimed to expose the corruption within the local government.

   Synonyms: reveal, uncover, disclose

   Origin: from Middle French 'exposer', from Latin 'exponere', meaning 'to put forth'

3. burgeon · verb/ˈbɜr.dʒən/

   to begin to grow or increase rapidly

   As the weather warmed up, the flowers in the garden began to burgeon, creating a vibrant display of colors.

   Synonyms: flourish, thrive, expand

   Origin: From Middle English 'burgeon', from Old French 'burgeonner', which means 'to put forth buds, to sprout', derived from the word 'burgeon' meaning 'a bud or sprout'.

4. dominate · verb/ˈdɑː.mɪ.neɪt/

   to have control or power over someone or something

   In many cases, larger companies tend to dominate the market, making it difficult for smaller businesses to compete.

   Synonyms: control, command, govern

   Origin: from Latin 'dominari' meaning 'to rule, have power over' (from 'dominus' meaning 'lord, master')

5. evolve · verb/ɪˈvɑlv/

   to develop gradually by a process of change and growth

   Over the years, the species has evolved to adapt to its changing environment.

   Synonyms: develop, progress, advance

   Origin: Derived from the Latin word 'evolvere', which means 'to unroll, unfold' (from 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'volvere' meaning 'to roll').