Verb

verb

601 of 690

Bad / Unfriendly

audio

polarize - To divide into two completely opposing groups

It's frightening to see how many issues have caused the US to polarize into Right and Left groups that hate each other.

verb

602 of 690

Bad / Dangerous

audio

burst - To suddenly break apart, spilling its contents, usually as a result of internal pressure.

The old rusted water main under the street burst, causing the road above to flood.

verb

603 of 690

Good / Busy

audio

hustle - To force (someone) to move hurriedly or unceremoniously in a specified direction

When Ronald Reagan was shot, Secret Service agents had to hustle him to safety.

verb

604 of 690

Bad / Weak

audio

dissipate - To cause something to become weaker until it gradually disappears

Because of his uncontrollable temper, Max dissipated whatever goodwill there had been in the marriage.

verb

605 of 690

Other / Body

audio

clutch - To grasp or seize (something) tightly or eagerly

Babies will often clutch their parents' fingers as part of a bonding ritual.

verb

606 of 690

Bad / Small

audio

tweak - To twist or pull something with a small sharp movement

Mechanics use wrenches to tweak the various parts of a car.

verb

607 of 690

Good / Flexible

Url audio

elude - To escape from or avoid someone or something, especially in a clever or skillful way.

The thief managed to elude the police by slipping into a crowded market.

verb

608 of 690

Good / Flexible

Url audio

optimize - To make the best and most effective use of a situation, opportunity, or resource.

Since it hadn't rained for 6 months, and the reservoir levels were low, the mayor made a plan to optimize the people's use of water.

verb

609 of 690

Bad / Mistake

audio

botch - To carry out a task badly or carelessly

Eric botched the assignment that he was asked to do, so his supervisor had to reprimand him.

verb

610 of 690

Good / Smart

Url audio

refine - To make something better or more precise by removing flaws, errors, or unwanted elements.

He spent years working to refine his painting skills, mastering the techniques of light and shadow.

verb

611 of 690

Bad / Disorganized

audio

tangle - To twist together into a confused mass

The cords to Miguel's devices were so tangled that they couldn't be separated.

verb

612 of 690

Other / Slow

Url audio

clog - To become blocked or filled so that movement or activity is slowed or stopped.

Some dirt was clogging the sink, so that the water in the sink didn't drain properly.