engulf, concede, deprecate, abhor, eloquent: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Advanced Plus set 44. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. engulf · verb/ɪnˈɡʌlf/

   to surround or cover completely

   The flames will engulf the whole building if the fire is not put out quickly.

   Synonyms: envelop, overwhelm, swallow up

   Origin: Middle English 'engulfen', from the prefix 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be in', and 'gulfen', meaning 'to swallow'.

2. concede · verb/kənˈsiːd/

   to acknowledge or admit the truth or validity of something, often reluctantly

   After a long argument, she had to concede that he was right about the plan.

   Synonyms: admit, acknowledge, accept

   Origin: from Latin 'concedere', meaning 'to yield or grant'

3. deprecate · verb/ˈdɛprɪkeɪt/

   to express disapproval of or to belittle

   The teacher did not want to deprecate the students' efforts, but she felt they could do better.

   Synonyms: disapprove, belittle, criticize

   Origin: from Latin 'deprecatus', the past participle of 'deprecari' meaning 'to pray against' or 'to express disapproval of'

4. abhor · verb/əbˈhɔr/

   to regard with extreme repugnance or aversion

   Many people abhor violence in any form.

   Synonyms: detest, loathe, hate

   Origin: from Latin 'abhorere', meaning 'to shun' or 'to recoil from'

5. eloquent · adjective/ˈɛləkwənt/

   fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing

   The teacher gave an eloquent speech about the importance of kindness.

   Synonyms: articulate, expressive, persuasive

   Origin: from Latin 'eloquentem', the present participle of 'eloqui', meaning 'to speak out'