bemoan, transmute, extirpate, quibble, cosset: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 68. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. bemoan · verb/bɪˈmoʊn/

   to express sorrow or discontent about something

   Many fans bemoan the loss of their favorite TV show after it was canceled.

   Synonyms: lament, mourn, complain

   Origin: Middle English, from 'be-' + 'moan', meaning to moan or express sorrow

2. transmute · verb/trænzˈmjuːt/

   to change or convert one substance or form into another

   The magician could transmute lead into gold with his special powers.

   Synonyms: change, convert, transform

   Origin: from Latin 'transmutare', where 'trans-' means 'across' and 'mutare' means 'to change'

3. extirpate · verb/ˈɛkstərˌpeɪt/

   to remove or destroy completely

   The gardeners worked hard to extirpate the weeds from the flower bed.

   Synonyms: eradicate, eliminate, destroy

   Origin: from Latin 'extirpāre', which means 'to pull out by the roots'

4. quibble · noun/ˈkwɪb.əl/

   a slight objection or criticism

   She had a small quibble about the color of the curtains.

   Synonyms: complaint, objection, criticism

   Origin: Originated in the late 16th century from the Middle English word 'quiblen,' meaning to argue or shift in a small way.

5. cosset · verb/ˈkɑ.sɪt/

   to care for and protect in an overindulgent way

   Her parents loved to cosset her, giving her every toy she wanted.

   Synonyms: pamper, indulge, spoil

   Origin: late 19th century, from the dialectal term 'cosset' meaning 'a pet lamb'