hamper -
To restrict the movement of by bonds or obstacles
Kyle needed to scratch an itch, but he was hampered by the handcuffs on his wrists.
verb
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Bad /
Dirty
audio
tarnish -
To cause a metal to lose its shine, especially as a result of exposure to air or moisture
The spoons were in varying conditions, some of them tarnished until they turned black.
verb
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Bad /
Disorganized
audio
garble -
To distort a message so that it is unclear or confusing
When the astronauts landed on Mars, static garbled their voices so none of the billions of people on earth watching on TV could understand what they were saying.
verb
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Good /
Beautiful
audio
festoon -
To decorate a place for a special occasion by hanging lights, colored paper, balloons, flowers, etc.
When Jack graduated from law school, his family and friends threw him a party outside festooned with lights and decorations.
verb
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Bad /
Aggressive
Url
audio
vie -
To compete intensely with others for superiority or a desired goal.
During the World Cup, the best soccer teams vie for the championship title.
verb
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Other /
Move
audio
swerve -
To turn aside abruptly from a straight line or course to avoid something in front of you.
The van swerved to avoid the car suddenly stopping in front of it.
verb
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Bad /
Mistake
audio
fritter -
To waste or squander time, money or resources.
My father told me I would prosper if I don't fritter away my time and money because they are equally precious.
verb
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Bad /
Aggressive
Url
audio
usurp -
To take a position of power or importance illegally or by force; to seize or assume something without the right to do so.
Throughout history, many rulers have usurped thrones through deceit and betrayal
verb
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Good /
Strong
Url
audio
reinforce -
To make something stronger or more powerful, often by adding additional resources, effort, or structure.
The general ordered additional troops to reinforce the front lines, knowing they were critical to holding the position.
verb
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Bad /
Hurt
audio
gawk -
To stare at someone in an rude and unbelieving way
Linda and her friends couldn't help but gawk at their favorite movie star when she arrived at the movie opening.
verb
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Bad /
Delay
Url
audio
defuse -
To reduce the tension or danger in a difficult situation.
The mediator worked hard to defuse the conflict and tension between the two sides that were trying to negotiate an agreement.
verb
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Other /
Entice
Url
audio
arouse -
To stir up a feeling or emotion such as interest, anger, or excitement.
The teacher's passionate words aroused the curiosity in the students, and they paid attention to everything he said, and they learned a great deal.
