ratify, emancipate, resuscitate, coerce, entice: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient Plus set 93. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ratify · verb/ˈrætɪfaɪ/

   to formally approve or confirm a decision or agreement

   The Senate needs to ratify the treaty before it can take effect.

   Synonyms: approve, confirm, endorse

   Origin: from Latin 'ratificare', meaning 'to make valid'

2. emancipate · verb/ɪˈmæn.sɪ.peɪt/

   to free someone from legal, social, or political restrictions

   The government decided to emancipate the slaves, allowing them to live freely.

   Synonyms: free, liberate, release

   Origin: from Latin 'emancipare', meaning to transfer ownership

3. resuscitate · verb/rɪˈsʌsɪˌteɪt/

   to restore to life or consciousness

   The doctors tried to resuscitate the patient after he stopped breathing.

   Synonyms: revive, restore, awaken

   Origin: The word 'resuscitate' comes from the Latin 'resuscitare', which means 'to raise again'.

4. coerce · verb/koʊˈɜːrs/

   to compel someone to act or think in a certain way by using force or threats

   The teacher tried to coerce the students into doing their homework by threatening to give them a bad grade.

   Synonyms: force, compel, pressure

   Origin: from Latin 'coercere,' meaning 'to restrain or control'

5. entice · verb/ɪnˈtaɪs/

   to attract or tempt by offering pleasure or advantage

   The smell of fresh cookies can entice children to come to the kitchen.

   Synonyms: attract, lure, tempt

   Origin: from Old French 'enticer', which comes from 'en' (to) + 'tycer' (to incite, provoke).