Relegate
mediumNegative toneREL-uh-gate
verb
Definition
to assign to a lower or less important position; to banish
Memory hook
RELEGATE sounds like 're-LEAGUE': sent down to a lower league, demoted to the minors. Picture a star player benched and shipped to the basement division.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His controversial theories were relegated to a footnote in the official history.”
“After the scandal, she was relegated to a windowless office in the basement.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His controversial theories were ______ to a footnote in the official history.”
Show answer
relegated
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Relegate is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "demote" or "downgrade" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "promote".
Related GRE Words
appropriate
(verb) To take something for one's own use without permission; (adjective) suitable or proper
arrest
(verb) To stop or check the progress of something; to seize by legal authority
eminent
Famous and respected within a particular field; outstanding
engender
To cause or give rise to; to produce or bring about
galvanize
To shock or excite someone into taking action
negate
to nullify; make ineffective or invalid
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