to explain the meaning of something or to understand it in a particular way
example
Many people interpret the poem as a reflection on the struggles of life.
synonyms
explainclarifydelineate
word origin — Middle English: from Old French interpreto(n), from Latin interpretare 'to explain, explicate,' from inter- 'between' + pretere 'to bring out'
TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 9
Set 9 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: interpret, wheedle, galvanize, condemn, daunt. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
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'
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.
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.
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).
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'.