Lesson 29

a slow speech pattern with prolonged vowels

to serve as a sign or indication of a future event

The sudden drop in the stock market portends economic challenges ahead.

to either feel or display dissatisfaction

She repined over the missed opportunity for weeks.

to put on clothing

He decided to don a sharp suit for the job interview to make a professional impression.

to greatly surprise or astonish someone, often leaving them speechless or bewildered

The unexpected plot twist in the movie always flabbergasts me.

to extend a period of time or duration

She protracted the meeting by discussing irrelevant topics.

to provide or bestow something, often with a sense of temporarily imbuing a quality or attribute

The sunset endues the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink.

to suddenly and forcibly take hold of something

In a panic, she reached out to seize her falling phone before it hit the ground.

to passionately campaign or fight, often with a religious or moral purpose

The religious leader inspired followers to crusade against perceived heresies.

to appoint someone to an official position, particularly as an ambassador

to make someone feel emotionally separated or distant from others, often due to disagreements or hurt feelings

His provocative remarks estrange him from his coworkers, sparking frequent conflicts in the workplace.

to reject or refuse disdainfully

Despite his sincere apology, she chose to spurn his attempts at reconciliation.

to make something naked, often by removing covering, vegetation, or natural elements

The construction project denuded the landscape, clearing away trees and vegetation.

to deceive a person, often by hiding the truth or using clever tactics to mislead them

The scammer attempted to hoodwink elderly individuals into giving away their personal information.

to stare with one's mouth open in amazement or wonder

Right now, I am gaping at the impressive acrobatics of the circus performers.

to do something in a reluctant and condescending manner

She deigned to acknowledge his greeting with a nod.

to make a harsh, high-pitched sound when something rubs against or moves against another surface that is rough or rusty

The old wooden floorboards began to creak under the weight of each step as we walked through the abandoned house.

to gradually familiarize or habituate someone or something to a specific condition, practice, or environment

Daily exposure to loud noises helps accustom my ears to the bustling city life.