incense, mortify, protrude, perk, emboss: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Master set 87. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. incense · noun/ˈɪn.sɛns/

   a substance that produces a fragrant smell when burned

   We lit the incense to create a calm atmosphere in the room.

   Synonyms: fragrance, scent, aroma

   Origin: from the Latin 'incensum', meaning 'to burn' or 'to smoke'

2. mortify · verb/ˈmɔrtɪfaɪ/

   to cause someone to feel embarrassed or ashamed

   She was mortified when she realized she had the wrong answer in the class.

   Synonyms: humiliate, embarrass, shame

   Origin: from Latin 'mortificare', meaning 'to kill (the spirit)'.

3. protrude · verb/prəˈtrud/

   to stick out or extend beyond a surface

   The tree branches protrude over the path, making it hard to walk.

   Synonyms: stick out, extend, jut

   Origin: from Latin 'protrudere' meaning 'to push forward', where 'pro-' means 'forward' and 'trudere' means 'to thrust'.

4. perk · noun/pɜrk/

   a benefit or advantage gained from a particular situation

   Having a gym in the office is a great perk for employees who want to stay fit.

   Synonyms: benefit, advantage, bonus

   Origin: Middle English 'perke', possibly from a variant of the verb 'perch', origin unknown.

5. emboss · verb/ɪmˈbɔs/

   to create a raised design on a surface

   The artist decided to **emboss** her design on the metal surface to make it stand out.

   Synonyms: engrave, imprint, stamp

   Origin: from the Old French 'embosser', meaning 'to set in relief'