consecrate, objurgate, impute, disavow, defalcate: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Proficient set 48. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. consecrate · verb/ˈkɑn.sɪ.kreɪt/

   to make or declare something sacred or holy

   The priest will consecrate the new church on Sunday.

   Synonyms: dedicate, sanctify, bless

   Origin: from Latin 'consecratus', past participle of 'consecrāre', meaning 'to make sacred'

2. objurgate · verb/ˈɑbʤərˌɡeɪt/

   to rebuke or criticize sharply

   The teacher had to objurgate the student for not doing his homework on time.

   Synonyms: rebuke, reprimand, scold

   Origin: from Latin 'objurgare', meaning 'to rebuke or scold'

3. impute · verb/ɪmˈpjut/

   to attribute or assign a responsibility or fault to someone or something

   Many people impute the success of the team to the hard work of the coach.

   Synonyms: attribute, assign, ascribe

   Origin: from Latin 'imputare', meaning 'to reckon, charge, or attribute'.

4. disavow · verb/ˌdɪs.əˈvaʊ/

   to deny any responsibility or support for something

   The company had to disavow any connection to the scandal.

   Synonyms: reject, deny, disclaim

   Origin: from Middle French 'desavouer', from Latin 'disavocare' meaning to call off or deny

5. defalcate · verb/dɪˈfɔlkeɪt/

   to embezzle funds or misappropriate money

   The manager tried to defalcate money from the company's account for his personal expenses.

   Synonyms: embezzle, misappropriate, steal

   Origin: The word 'defalcate' comes from the Latin 'defalcare,' which means 'to cut off' or 'to withhold.'