Category: Verbs

(+ object) formal + literary to be a sign or warning that something usually bad or unpleasant is going to happen The distant thunder portended a storm. If you’re superstitious, a black cat portends trouble.

(+ object) to make a hole or a series of holes in (something) Cover the bowl with aluminum foil, and then use a fork to perforate the foil.

1 : to ask questions or say things while another person is speaking : to do or say something that causes someone to stop speaking (+ object) Please don’t interrupt me (while I’m talking). (no object) It’s not polite to Read More …

(+ object) to repair and make improvements to (something, such as a building) They are refurbishing (=renovating) the old house. They sell refurbished computers. (=old computers that have been repaired so that they are in good condition)

1 : to hang down loosely especially in a way that makes it possible to swing freely (no object) Let your arms dangle at your sides. dangling earrings often + from Diamonds and pearls dangled from her ears. Wires were 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.

(no object) 1 : to walk usually for a long distance We had to trek up six flights of stairs with our groceries. 2 : to travel by walking through an area with many mountains, rivers, etc., for pleasure and Read More …

(+ object) The tank divisions overran the countryside. The city was being overrun by enemy troops. Rats overran the ship. In the summer, the town is overrun with/by tourists. (=is filled with tourists) 2 : to run or go beyond Read More …

(no object) 1 : to produce flowers The trees have finished blossoming. (=blooming, flowering) 2 : to change, grow, and develop fully Their friendship began to blossom (=bloom, flower, flourish) during the summer. Their friendship blossomed into romance. Their business Read More …

1 : to lift or pull (something) with effort (+ object) We heaved the box (up) onto the table. I tried to heave myself (up) out of the chair. She heaved the door shut. (no object) – usually + on Read More …