permeate, retrieve, collapse, divulge, generate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 170. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. permeate · verb/ˈpɜr.miˌeɪt/

   to spread throughout or pass through something

   The strong aroma of the spices began to permeate the air, filling the kitchen with a delightful scent.

   Synonyms: saturate, infuse, penetrate

   Origin: from Latin permeare, meaning 'to traverse, pass through'.

2. retrieve · verb/rɪˈtriv/

   to get something back or to recover it

   She had to work hard to retrieve the lost documents from the archives.

   Synonyms: recoup, recover, reclaim

   Origin: Derived from the Old French 'retriever' which means 'to get back,' and from the Latin 'retrahe' meaning 'to draw back.'

3. collapse · verb/kəˈlæps/

   to fall down or give way suddenly

   The old building began to collapse under the weight of the heavy snow.

   Synonyms: cave in, fall down, give way

   Origin: from Latin 'collapsus', past participle of 'collabī', meaning 'to fall together'

4. divulge · verb/dɪˈvʌldʒ/

   to make known private or secret information

   The journalist refused to divulge the source of her information, citing the need for confidentiality.

   Synonyms: reveal, disclose, unveil

   Origin: from Latin 'divulgare', meaning 'to make public, spread abroad' (di- 'abroad' + vulgare 'to make common').

5. generate · verb/ˈdʒɛn.ə.reɪt/

   to produce or create something

   The new policy aims to generate revenue for the local government through increased tourism.

   Synonyms: produce, create

   Origin: from Latin 'generare', meaning 'to beget or produce'