Founder
mediumNegative toneFOWN-der
verb
Definition
(verb) To fail utterly; to sink (of a ship); to stumble
Memory hook
FOUNDER (verb): a ship that FOUNDERS sinks to the BOTTOM — to fail completely and collapse.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The peace talks foundered on the issue of borders.”
“The ship foundered in the storm, losing all cargo.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The peace talks ______ on the issue of borders.”
Show answer
foundered
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Founder is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "collapse" or "fail" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "succeed".
Related GRE Words
implode
to collapse violently inward
debacle
A sudden and ignominious failure; a fiasco
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
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