Word Master — Set 75

Set 75 of Word Master covers 5 words: levee, bane, roster, blandishment, whelp. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. levee · noun/ˈlɛvi/

   a embankment built to prevent the overflow of a river

   The town built a strong levee to stop the river from flooding the streets.

   Synonyms: dike, embankment, dam

   Origin: The word 'levee' comes from the French term 'levée', meaning 'to raise' or 'to lift up'.

2. bane · noun/beɪn/

   a cause of great distress or annoyance

   The loud noise outside was the bane of my study time.

   Synonyms: curse, plague, woe

   Origin: Old English 'bana' meaning 'killer' or 'murderer,' evolved to mean something that causes harm or distress.

3. roster · noun/ˈrɑːstər/

   a list or plan showing the order in which things or people are to be considered or done

   The teacher gave us the roster of students who would perform in the school play.

   Synonyms: list, schedule, lineup

   Origin: from Middle French 'roster' or 'roste', meaning 'a list or register'

4. blandishment · noun/ˈblændɪʃmənt/

   flattering remarks or actions intended to persuade someone to do something

   The manager used sweet blandishments to convince the employees to work late on the project.

   Synonyms: flattery, persuasion, cajolery

   Origin: from Middle French 'blandissement', from 'blandir' meaning 'to flatter'.

5. whelp · noun/wɛlp/

   a young offspring of a mammal especially a dog

   The mother dog took care of her new whelp and fed it every day.

   Synonyms: pup, puppy, cub

   Origin: Old English 'whelp' meaning 'puppy, young animal'