elucidate, delineate, impel, preside, scuff: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 61. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. elucidate · verb/ɪˈluːsəˌdeɪt/

   to make something clear or easy to understand

   The teacher will elucidate the difficult topic during the class.

   Synonyms: clarify, explain, illuminate

   Origin: from Latin 'elucidare', meaning 'to bring light to' or 'to make clear'

2. delineate · verb/dɪˈlɪ.ni.eɪt/

   to describe or outline with precision

   The teacher asked the students to delineate the main points of the story in their notes.

   Synonyms: describe, outline, define

   Origin: From Latin 'delineare', meaning 'to draw a line around'

3. impel · verb/ɪmˈpɛl/

   to drive or urge someone to take action

   She felt it was her duty to impel her friend to study harder for the exam.

   Synonyms: urge, motivate, push

   Origin: from Latin 'impellere', meaning 'to drive on, urge forward'

4. preside · verb/prɪˈzaɪd/

   to hold a position of authority in a meeting or gathering

   The teacher will preside over the class meeting to discuss the rules.

   Synonyms: guide, lead, chair

   Origin: from Latin 'praesidēre', meaning 'to sit before'

5. scuff · verb/skʌf/

   to scrape or brush the surface of something, causing a mark or damage

   Be careful not to scuff your new shoes on the rough pavement.

   Synonyms: scratch, scrape, mark

   Origin: The word 'scuff' comes from the Old Norse word 'skufa,' meaning to push or shove.