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

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 19. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. ratify · verb/ˈræt.ɪ.faɪ/

   to formally approve or confirm something, especially a treaty or agreement

   The government decided to ratify the new trade agreement with other countries.

   Synonyms: approve, confirm, endorse

   Origin: from Latin 'ratificare', which means 'to confirm or approve'

2. coerce · verb/koʊˈɜːrs/

   to persuade someone to do something by using force or threats

   The bully tried to coerce the other kids into giving him their lunch money.

   Synonyms: force, intimidate, pressure

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

3. resuscitate · verb/rɪˈsʌsɪˌteɪt/

   to restore someone to consciousness or health

   The doctors worked hard to resuscitate the patient after his heart stopped.

   Synonyms: revive, recover, restore

   Origin: from Latin 'resuscitare', meaning 'to raise again' (re- 'again' + suscitare 'to raise').

4. emancipate · verb/ɪˈmæn.sɪ.peɪt/

   to set free from restraint, control, or the power of another

   The new law will help to emancipate children from unfair work in factories.

   Synonyms: free, liberate, release

   Origin: from Latin 'emancipare', meaning 'to free from control or ownership'

5. entice · verb/ɪnˈtaɪs/

   to attract or tempt by offering pleasure or advantage

   The smell of fresh cookies can entice people to come into the bakery.

   Synonyms: attract, lure, tempt

   Origin: Middle English 'enticen', from Old French 'enticer', from Latin 'inticiare' meaning 'to kindle, to set on fire'