kindle, loll, nettle, substantiate, inculcate: meanings and examples

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

1. kindle · verb/ˈkɪn.dəl/

   to ignite or light a fire or to inspire or arouse emotion

   The children gathered around the campfire to kindle the flames with dry leaves.

   Synonyms: ignite, light, awaken

   Origin: Old Norse 'kinda' meaning 'to light, to catch fire'

2. loll · verb/lɔl/

   to sit, lie, or stand in a lazy, relaxed way

   After lunch, I like to loll on the sofa and watch TV.

   Synonyms: sprawl, lounge, relax

   Origin: Middle English, probably from the verb 'lollen', meaning to hang loosely

3. nettle · noun/ˈnɛt.əl/

   a herbaceous plant with stinging hairs that cause a painful rash when touched

   Be careful not to touch the nettle in the garden, or you might feel a sharp sting.

   Synonyms: burr, stingnettle

   Origin: Old English 'netele', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'netel' and German 'Nessel'.

4. substantiate · verb/səbˈstæn.ʃi.eɪt/

   to provide evidence or proof to support or confirm a claim or assertion

   The scientist needed to substantiate her findings with clear data.

   Synonyms: confirm, verify, support

   Origin: from the Latin word 'substantiare', meaning 'to make firm, establish'

5. inculcate · verb/ˈɪn.kəl.keɪt/

   to instill an idea, attitude, or habit by persistent instruction

   Teachers try to inculcate good study habits in their students.

   Synonyms: instill, teach, impart

   Origin: from Latin 'inculcare', meaning 'to tread upon, to press upon', from 'in-' meaning 'upon' + 'calcare' meaning 'to tread'