Category: Verbs

This word comes from a Latin one meaning “to tear into pieces.” To lacerate something is to cut, tear, or slice it in a deep, rough, irregular way. And figuratively speaking, to lacerate things or people is to hurt them Read More …

1 of an insect, plant, or animal : to hurt (someone) by piercing the skin with a sharp, pointed part that usually contains poison [+ object] I got stung by a bee. The jellyfish stung the swimmer. [no object] The Read More …

To dabble is to get just a little wet by splashing a bit. More generally speaking, if you dabble, or if you dabble in an activity or interest, you get involved in it just a little bit, as if you’re Read More …

[+ object] to decorate (something) by adding special details and features : to make (something) more appealing or attractive a book embellished with colorful illustrations He embellished his speech with a few quotations. (humorous) I didn’t lie, I just embellished Read More …

This word has Latin roots that mean “to come around.” To circumvent something is to find a way around it: to avoid it, often in a smart or sneaky way. Pronunciation: SIR come VENT Part of speech: Verb, the transitive Read More …

1 [+ object] : to remove (something that has been recorded) from a tape (such as a videotape or audiotape) or a computer disk The recording can be erased and the tape used again. Several important files were accidentally erased. Read More …

to make (someone) very angry : to fill (someone) with rage His thoughtless behavior enraged us. People were enraged by the decision.

1 [no object] : to break apart and fall down suddenly The bridge/building collapsed. The roof collapsed under a heavy load of snow. The chair he was sitting in collapsed. 2 a [no object] : to fall down or become Read More …

1 [+ object] : to give (a document, proposal, piece of writing, etc.) to someone so that it can be considered or approved Candidates interested in the position should submit their résumés to the Office of Human Resources. Submit your Read More …

1 [no object] : to play a game in which you can win or lose money or possessions : to bet money or other valuable things I like to gamble. He’s been drinking and gambling heavily. gambling at cards — Read More …