extol

/ɪkˈstəʊl/

Group 34Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(verb)
To praise enthusiastically
GRE

Example in Context

The review extolled the novel's structural innovation, calling it the most original work of fiction to appear in the past decade.

Etymology

To lift someone up OUT of mediocrity with praise.

  • ex- (Latin) — out
  • tollere (Latin) — to lift

Memory Aid

🔔Sounds like “ex-toll

When you EXCLAIM "TOLL the bells!" it’s because you’re EXTOLLING someone’s greatness!

Visual Association

🏆A crowd cheering wildly as a champion is lifted high on someone's shoulders, celebrating their victory.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “extol” mean on the GRE?

extol (verb) means “To praise enthusiastically”. The review extolled the novel's structural innovation, calling it the most original work of fiction to appear in the past decade.

How to remember “extol” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “extol” sounds like “ex-toll”. When you EXCLAIM "TOLL the bells!" it’s because you’re EXTOLLING someone’s greatness!