interpret, wheedle, galvanize, condemn, daunt: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 9. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. interpret · verb/ɪnˈtɜr.prɪt/

   to explain the meaning of something or to understand it in a particular way

   Many people interpret the poem as a reflection on the struggles of life.

   Synonyms: explain, clarify, delineate

   Origin: Middle English: from Old French interpreto(n), from Latin interpretare 'to explain, explicate,' from inter- 'between' + pretere 'to bring out'

2. wheedle · verb/ˈwiː.dəl/

   to persuade someone to do something by using flattery or charm

   She tried to wheedle her way into the exclusive party by complimenting the host on his amazing taste in music.

   Synonyms: cajole, coax, persuade

   Origin: The word 'wheedle' comes from the late 18th century, possibly derived from the dialectal English word 'wheedle' meaning to persuade or entice, and may be related to the Scottish word 'wheeld' meaning to wheel or turn.

3. galvanize · verb/ˈɡæl.və.naɪz/

   to stimulate or excite to action

   The charity event aimed to galvanize community support for local shelters.

   Synonyms: stimulate, motivate, incite

   Origin: The term 'galvanize' originates from the name of Italian scientist Luigi Galvani, who studied the effects of electricity on muscles and animals in the late 18th century.

4. condemn · verb/kənˈdɛm/

   to express strong disapproval of something or someone

   The human rights organization condemned the oppressive regime for its brutal treatment of dissenters.

   Synonyms: censure, criticize, denounce

   Origin: Originating from the Latin word 'condemnare', which means 'to assign to ruin, to declare guilty', combining 'con-' (together) and 'damnare' (to inflict loss, damage, or harm).

5. daunt · verb/dɔnt/

   to make someone feel intimidated or apprehensive

   The difficult exam did not daunt her; instead, it motivated her to study harder.

   Synonyms: intimidate, discourage, dishearten

   Origin: Middle English 'daunten' from Old French 'danter', from Latin 'domitare', meaning 'to tame'.