Category: Verbs

To nonplus someone is to perplex them, or in other words, to cause them to be at a loss as to what to say, think, or do. The stranger’s odd question about the town where my grandfather was born nonplussed Read More …

To harry someone or something is to harass or torment them by or as if by constant attack. The visiting team harried the home team relentlessly during the first quarter.

1 : to refill (a battery) with electricity (+ object) When the computer beeps, you need to recharge the battery. (no object) It takes about an hour for the battery to recharge. 2 : (no object) : to regain your Read More …

(+ object) to attract and hold the attention of (someone) by being interesting, pretty, etc. The play has been captivating audiences for years. — often used as (be) captivated We were captivated by her beauty.

Bilk is typically applied in contexts relating to fraud and deceit. It can mean “to cheat out of something valuable,” or “to evade payment of or to,” or “to obtain something by defrauding someone.” Prosecutors contend that the defendant bilked Read More …

To dicker is to talk or argue with someone about the conditions of a purchase, agreement, or contract. My favorite thing about flea markets is dickering over prices.

(no object) to express emotion in a very dramatic or obvious way He stood on the stage, emoting and gesturing wildly.

(+ object) 1 : to make (clothing that is measured to fit a particular person) I had my suit tailored. 2 : to make or change (something) so that it meets a special need or purpose They tailored the show Read More …

1 : to arrange things so that they form a line or are in proper position (+ object) The storekeeper carefully aligned (=lined up) the cans on the shelf. He aligned the two holes so he could put the screw Read More …

1 : to bring (someone or something) back to a normal, healthy condition after an illness, injury, drug problem, etc. (+ object) The clinic rehabilitates drug addicts. He’s still rehabilitating the knee he injured last summer. They try to rehabilitate Read More …