Tag: verb

(+ object) to reduce the pain or trouble of (something) : to make (something) less painful, difficult, or severe The doctor tried to alleviate (=relieve) her symptoms/suffering. finding ways to alleviate stress The new tunnel should alleviate (=lessen, reduce) traffic Read More …

To allege something is to assert it without proof or before proving it. Consumer advocates allege that the company knew about the faulty switches but sold the product anyway.

(+ object) formal to correct (something that is wrong) The hotel management promised to rectify the problem/situation.

To refurbish something is to brighten or freshen it up, or to repair and make improvements to it. They are refurbishing the old house with the hopes of selling it for a profit. The store refurbishes and sells computers that Read More …

(no object) to become gradually smaller toward one end leaves that taper to a point Her slacks taper (=become narrower) at the ankle. taper off (phrasal verb) to become gradually less and less : to decrease slowly Production has been Read More …

(+ object) to wrap (someone, especially a baby) tightly with a blanket, pieces of cloth, etc. He swaddled the baby in a blanket.

To connive is to secretly help someone do something dishonest or illegal. Roger suspected that his coworkers were conniving to get him fired when in reality they were planning his surprise birthday party.

1 : (no object) : to return to normal health or strength after being sick, injured, etc. : RECOVER She took a day off to recuperate. – often + from Dad is recuperating from knee surgery. 2 : (+ object) Read More …

To demean someone or something is to cause that person or thing to seem less important or worthy of respect. By refusing to condemn the unlawful actions of her supporters, the governor demeaned the office she was elected to hold.

1 : (+ object) : to gather or acquire (something) gradually as time passes She has slowly accumulated (=amassed) a fortune. You can accumulate (=earn) bonus points by participating in surveys. The police have been accumulating (=collecting) evidence of his Read More …