Squander
mediumNegative toneSKWON-der
verb
Definition
to waste recklessly or spend extravagantly
Memory hook
SQUANDER: picture a SQUID that WANDERS through the ocean spraying ink everywhere, wasting every last drop for nothing.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“He squandered his entire inheritance on failed business ventures within a year.”
“The team squandered an early lead by playing too cautiously in the second half.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“He ______ his entire inheritance on failed business ventures within a year.”
Show answer
squandered
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Squander is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "waste" or "dissipate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "save".
Related GRE Words
parsimony
extreme unwillingness to spend money or use resources; stinginess
atrophy
To waste away or deteriorate, especially from lack of use
boorish
rude, ill-mannered, and insensitive
bootlicker
A person who behaves obsequiously to gain favor; a sycophant
closefisted
Unwilling to spend money; miserly
condone
to overlook, forgive, or tacitly approve of an offense
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