inspissate, flummox, interdigitate, cantillate, micturate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 98. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. inspissate · verb/ɪnˈspɪs.eɪt/

   to thicken by evaporation or concentration

   The chef decided to inspissate the sauce by reducing it over low heat, allowing the flavors to concentrate.

   Synonyms: concentrate, thicken, reduce

   Origin: from Latin 'inspissare', meaning 'to thicken, make thicker'

2. flummox · verb/ˈflʌm.əks/

   to confuse or perplex someone

   The complex math problem managed to flummox even the brightest students in the class.

   Synonyms: baffle, confound, perplex

   Origin: The origin of 'flummox' is uncertain, but it is thought to be an alteration of 'flummock', which means to confuse or to muddle. The word appears to have emerged in the early 19th century.

3. interdigitate · verb/ˌɪntərˈdɪdʒɪteɪt/

   to interlock or interlace closely like the fingers of two hands

   The two fingers interdigitate perfectly, creating a tight grip that is essential for stability.

   Synonyms: interlock, interlace, intertwine

   Origin: from Latin 'interdigitare', meaning 'to interlace the fingers', from 'inter-' (between) + 'digitus' (finger)

4. cantillate · verb/ˈkæn.tɪ.leɪt/

   to sing or recite in a chanting manner

   During the prayer service, the congregation began to cantillate the sacred verses with great reverence.

   Synonyms: chant, intone, recite

   Origin: Derived from Latin 'cantillare', which is a diminutive form of 'cantus', meaning 'song'.

5. micturate · verb/ˈmɪk.tʃə.reɪt/

   to urinate

   During the hike, I found a moment to micturate behind a large tree.

   Synonyms: urinate, pee, void

   Origin: from Latin 'micturire', meaning 'to urinate'