GRE Word List

EXTENUATE

to lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent of (something, such as a fault or offense) by making partial excuses : mitigate

The meaning of the word extenuate is to lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent of (something, such as a fault or offense) by making partial excuses : mitigate.

Random words

WordMeaning
abrasivecausing damage, wear, or removal of surface material by grinding or rubbing : tending to abrade
incongruitythe quality or state of being incongruous
derivationthe formation of a word from another word or base (as by the addition of a usually noninflectional affix)
loutto bow in respect
superfluousexceeding what is sufficient or necessary : extra
immureto enclose within or as if within walls
crescendoa gradual increase
tatterto make ragged
biennialoccurring every two years
magnanimitythe quality of being magnanimous : loftiness of spirit enabling one to bear trouble calmly, to disdain meanness and pettiness, and to display a noble generosity