Extricate
mediumNeutral toneEK-stri-kayt
verb
Definition
to free from a difficulty or entanglement
Memory hook
EXTRICATE = EX (out) + TRIC (tricks/tangles)βto pull someone OUT of a tangle of tricks and troubles.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
βIt took hours for rescuers to extricate the driver from the wreckage.β
βShe struggled to extricate herself from the awkward financial arrangement.β
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
βIt took hours for rescuers to ______ the driver from the wreckage.β
Show answer
extricate
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Extricate is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "disentangle" or "free" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "entangle".
Related GRE Words
elusive
Difficult to find, catch, or achieve
flounder
To struggle clumsily or helplessly; to be in serious difficulty
involved
Complicated or difficult to understand; intricate
arduous
Requiring great effort; difficult and tiring
intractable
difficult to manage, control, or solve
onerous
burdensome; involving a great deal of effort or difficulty
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