discriminate, amass, haunt, verify, rotate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from TOEFL Vocabulary set 94. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. discriminate · verb/dɪsˈkrɪməˌneɪt/

   to recognize a distinction or differentiate between things

   It can be difficult to discriminate between the subtle flavors in a cuisine without proper training.

   Synonyms: distinguish, differentiate, discern

   Origin: from the Latin 'discriminare', meaning 'to separate, distinguish' (from 'discrimen', meaning 'discrimination, distinction').

2. amass · verb/əˈmæs/

   to gather or accumulate a large amount of something over time

   Over the years, she managed to amass a considerable fortune through her successful investments.

   Synonyms: accumulate, gather, collect

   Origin: The word 'amass' comes from the Middle English 'amassen', which is derived from the Old French 'amasser', meaning to heap up, combined with the Latin 'ad-' (to) and 'mass' (a mass or pile).

3. haunt · verb/hɔnt/

   to visit or appear to frequently in a disturbing way

   The memories of that tragic night continue to haunt him, often appearing in his dreams.

   Synonyms: visit, disturb, pervade

   Origin: from Middle English 'haunten', derived from Old French 'hanter', meaning 'to frequent, habitually visit'.

4. verify · verb/ˈvɛrɪfaɪ/

   to confirm the truth or accuracy of something

   We need to verify the accuracy of the financial reports before submitting them to the board.

   Synonyms: validate, substantiate, authenticate

   Origin: from Latin 'verificare', meaning 'to make true', from 'verus' meaning 'true' and 'facere' meaning 'to make'.

5. rotate · verb/roʊˈteɪt/

   to turn or cause to turn around an axis or center

   The earth will rotate on its axis, giving us day and night.

   Synonyms: turn, spin, revolve

   Origin: from Latin 'rotatus', the past participle of 'rotare', which means 'to turn'.