Ameliorate
hardPositive toneuh-MEEL-yuh-rayt
verb
Definition
To make something bad or unsatisfactory better
Memory hook
A-MEAL-iorate: A good MEAL can ameliorate your bad mood.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The new policies helped ameliorate living conditions in the area.”
“Exercise can ameliorate symptoms of depression.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The new policies helped ______ living conditions in the area.”
Show answer
ameliorate
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Ameliorate is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "improve" or "alleviate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "worsen".
Related GRE Words
enhance
to increase or improve in value, quality, or extent
palliate
to make less severe without removing the cause; to ease or mitigate
burnish
to polish; to enhance or make more impressive
alleviate
To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe
mitigate
To make less severe, serious, or painful
assuage
To make an unpleasant feeling less intense; to satisfy an appetite or desire
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