Advanced Plus — Set 17

Set 17 of Advanced Plus covers 5 words: versatility, adhere to, nourish, confined, mitigate. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. versatility · noun/ˌvɜr.səˈtɪl.ə.ti/

   the ability to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities

   The versatility of the smartphone allows it to be used for calling, texting, and playing games.

   Synonyms: adaptability, flexibility, versatility

   Origin: from Latin 'versatilis', meaning 'turning about, changeable', from 'vertere' meaning 'to turn'

2. adhere to · verb/ədˈhɪr/

   to stick firmly to a surface or substance

   The tape will adhere to the paper very well, making sure it stays in place.

   Synonyms: stick, attach, cling

   Origin: from Latin 'adhaerere' meaning 'to stick to'

3. nourish · verb/ˈnɜːrɪʃ/

   to provide with food or nutrients necessary for growth and health

   It is important to nourish your body with healthy food.

   Synonyms: feed, sustain, nurture

   Origin: from Middle English 'nourishen', from Old French 'nourrir', from Latin 'nutrire'

4. confined · adjective/kənˈfaɪnd/

   restricted in space or scope

   The cat was confined to the small room while we cleaned the house.

   Synonyms: limited, restricted, enclosed

   Origin: from Latin 'confīnus' meaning 'bordering on' or 'adjacent'

5. mitigate · verb/ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/

   to make less severe, serious, or painful

   The doctor gave her medicine to mitigate the pain in her back.

   Synonyms: alleviate, lessen, reduce

   Origin: from Latin 'mitigare', which means 'to soften or make mild'