Devitalize
hardNegative tonedee-VY-tuh-lyz
verb
Definition
To deprive of strength, vitality, or energy
Memory hook
DE-VITAL-IZE: remove the VITAL life force — to drain of energy and strength.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Years of bureaucratic stagnation had devitalized the organization.”
“The harsh climate devitalized even the hardiest plants.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Years of bureaucratic stagnation had ______ the organization.”
Show answer
devitalized
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Devitalize is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "weaken" or "enervate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "invigorate".
Related GRE Words
debilitate
To make weak or feeble; to impair the strength of
enervate
To cause someone to feel drained of energy; to weaken
enfeeble
To make weak or feeble
sap
(verb) To gradually weaken or destroy; to drain of energy
attenuate
To reduce the force, effect, or value of; to weaken
emaciate
To make abnormally thin or weak, especially through illness or starvation
Master devitalize and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.