corroborate, dismay, gratification, arid, impeach: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Advanced Plus set 41. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. corroborate · verb/kəˈrɑːbəreɪt/

   to confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding

   The scientist found new evidence to corroborate the theory that cold temperatures can slow down the growth of plants.

   Synonyms: confirm, support, verify

   Origin: from Latin 'corroborare', meaning 'to strengthen or confirm'

2. dismay · noun/dɪsˈmeɪ/

   distress caused by an unexpected problem or disappointment

   The board reacted with dismay when the project was canceled without warning.

   Synonyms: alarm, distress, disappointment

   Origin: The word 'dismay' comes from the Old French 'desmaier', meaning 'to undo' or 'to dishearten', which is derived from 'des-' (away) and 'maier' (to make) in the sense of losing courage.

3. gratification · noun/ˌɡrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

   pleasure derived from the satisfaction of a desire or need

   She felt a sense of gratification after helping her friend with homework.

   Synonyms: satisfaction, pleasure, enjoyment

   Origin: from Latin 'gratificatio', meaning 'a pleasing or pleasing act'

4. arid · adjective/ˈær.ɪd/

   lacking sufficient moisture or rainfall

   The arid desert has very little rainfall each year.

   Synonyms: dry, parched, rainless

   Origin: from Latin 'aridus', meaning dry

5. impeach · verb/ɪmˈpiːtʃ/

   to charge a public official with misconduct in office

   The Congress voted to impeach the president for abusing his power.

   Synonyms: charge formally, accuse formally, bring charges

   Origin: from Middle French 'empecher', from Latin 'impedicare', meaning to hinder or obstruct