TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 62

Set 62 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: displace, degrade, domesticate, conform, exhibit. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. displace · verb/dɪsˈpleɪs/

   to move something from its usual or proper place

   The construction work will displace several parking spaces along the street.

   Synonyms: remove, shift, relocate

   Origin: from Old French 'displacer', which is derived from Latin 'displacere', combining 'dis-' (away) and 'placere' (to please or to place)

2. degrade · verb/dɪˈɡreɪd/

   to lower in quality, value, or status

   Over time, the constant exposure to harsh chemicals can degrade the quality of the materials used in construction.

   Synonyms: diminish, debase, lower

   Origin: from Latin 'degradare', meaning 'to lower in rank or status', from 'de-' meaning 'down' + 'gradus' meaning 'step, grade'.

3. domesticate · verb/dəˈmɛstəˌkeɪt/

   to tame and breed animals or cultivate plants for human use

   Humans have learned to domesticate wild animals for companionship and work.

   Synonyms: tame, cultivate, train

   Origin: from Latin 'domesticare', meaning 'to make domestic'

4. conform · verb/kənˈfɔrm/

   to comply with rules, standards, or laws

   In order to obtain a license, all businesses must conform to the safety standards mandated by the government.

   Synonyms: adhere, comply, follow

   Origin: from Latin 'conformare', meaning 'to form together', from 'com-' (together) + 'formare' (to form)

5. exhibit · verb/ɪɡˈzɪb.ɪt/

   to display or present something for others to see

   The gallery will exhibit a collection of contemporary art next month.

   Synonyms: display, show, present

   Origin: The word 'exhibit' originates from the Latin 'exhibere', meaning 'to hold out' or 'to present'.