verve

/vɜː(r)v/

Group 30Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(noun)
Great energy and enthusiasm
GRE

Example in Context

The orchestra performed the final movement with a verve that brought the audience to its feet in a spontaneous and sustained ovation.

Synonyms

energyenthusiasmspirit

Etymology

Having liveliness and energy.

  • verva (Latin) — to have life

Memory Aid

Sounds like “very active

Imagine a cheetah on espresso, being VERY ACTIVE with VERVE!

Visual Association

🎉A performer bursting onto stage with fireworks, radiating energy and excitement.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “verve” mean on the GRE?

verve (noun) means “Great energy and enthusiasm”. The orchestra performed the final movement with a verve that brought the audience to its feet in a spontaneous and sustained ovation.

How to remember “verve” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “verve” sounds like “very active”. Imagine a cheetah on espresso, being VERY ACTIVE with VERVE!

What are synonyms for “verve”?

Common synonyms: energy, enthusiasm, spirit.