beleaguer, induct, ordain, fester, divulge: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 42. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. beleaguer · verb/bɪˈliɡər/

   to besiege or surround with difficulties

   The small town was beleaguered by heavy rain and strong winds during the storm.

   Synonyms: assail, beset, surround

   Origin: The word 'beleaguer' originates from the Dutch word 'belegeren', which means 'to besiege' or 'to surround'.

2. induct · verb/ɪnˈdʌkt/

   to introduce or bring someone into a group or organization

   The club decided to induct new members during the annual ceremony.

   Synonyms: initiate, introduce, enroll

   Origin: from Latin 'inductus', meaning 'to bring in'

3. ordain · verb/ɔrˈdeɪn/

   to officially appoint someone to a religious office or role

   The church decided to ordain a new priest to help the community.

   Synonyms: appoint, commission, consecrate

   Origin: from Latin 'ordinare', meaning 'to set in order' or 'to arrange'

4. fester · verb/ˈfɛstər/

   to become worse or more intense over time, often due to neglect or unresolved issues

   If we do not talk about our problems, they will only fester and make us more unhappy.

   Synonyms: worsen, decay, intensify

   Origin: Middle English 'festeren', from Old French 'festerr', from Latin 'fētīre' (to stink)

5. divulge · verb/dɪˈvəlʤ/

   to make known something private or previously secret

   She decided to divulge her secret to her best friend at the party.

   Synonyms: reveal, disclose, unveil

   Origin: From Latin 'divulgare', meaning 'to make public', from 'di-' (apart) + 'vulgare' (to make common)