Verb

verb

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Bad / Attack

audio

mutilate - To damage something severely

The grizzly bear not only killed Alan's dog, but mutilated its body beyond recognition.

verb

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Bad / Small

audio

dwindle - To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength

The dodo bird population dwindled over time before finally going extinct.

verb

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Good / Love

audio

cuddle - To snuggle or embrace someone or something in an affectionate non-sexual hug.

Timmy’s favorite time of the day was after his bedtime story when his Mommy would cuddle with him until he fell asleep.

verb

520 of 690

Other / Move

Url audio

grind - To reduce something to small particles or powder by crushing or rubbing.

He used a mortar and pestle to grind the ingredients into a fine powder to make the medicine.

verb

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Good / Smart

Url audio

spotlight - To give special attention to a problem or situation so that people pay attention to it.

Articles in the newspaper were effective in spotlighting the fact that the animal shelter was not taking good care of the animals.

verb

522 of 690

Bad / Aggressive

Url audio

stymie - To prevent or hinder the progress of something.

When he got very sick, it stymied his plans and ability to study for final exams.

verb

523 of 690

Good / Smart

Url audio

navigate - To lead a company, activity, etc. in a particular direction, or to deal effectively with a difficult situation.

From the time he started Microsoft, Bill Gates was able to successfully navigate its rapid growth in terms of products and customers.

verb

524 of 690

Good / Pleasure

audio

bask - To lie exposed to warmth and sunlight for relaxation and pleasure.

When Joe completed the project, he took a week off and did nothing but bask in the sun on the beach, of course totally covered with sun tan lotion.

verb

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Other / Move

audio

yank - To quickly pull something

Edmund yanked the cord on the lawnmower to get it started.

verb

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Bad / Attack

audio

usurp - To take a position of power or importance illegally or by force

The scheming prince knew that he would soon usurp the throne from his father before his father was ready to give it up.

verb

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Other / Sound

Url audio

rattle - To disturb or unsettle someone, especially by causing anxiety or fear; or to make a series of short, sharp sounds.

The sudden loud noise rattled her, and for a long time she just couldn't calm down.

verb

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Good / Friendly

Url audio

soothe - To bring peace or relief, emotionally or physically.

He explained his concerns to his friend, who responded with time and words that soothed his mood.