Divest
hardNeutral tonedy-VEST
verb
Definition
to strip or deprive of possessions, rights, or assets
Memory hook
DI-VEST: the opposite of inVEST; picture taking OFF a VEST, stripping yourself of your holdings.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The university voted to divest from fossil-fuel companies.”
“The ruling divested the monarch of all real political power.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The university voted to ______ from fossil-fuel companies.”
Show answer
divest
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Divest is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "strip" or "dispossess" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "invest".
Related GRE Words
parsimonious
Unwilling to spend money or use resources; stingy
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
abeyance
a state of temporary suspension or inactivity
abscond
To leave secretly and hide, especially to avoid arrest or prosecution
abstemious
Moderate in eating and drinking; self-restrained
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