vanquish
Vanquish (verb) means to defeat someone or something completely, especially in a fight or contest. Example: “The knight vanquished his rival in single combat.”
How to use vanquish
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo vanquish someone is to beat them thoroughly and decisively — stronger and more dramatic than just "win against."
A fairly formal or literary word; everyday speech usually just says "beat" or "defeat."
Word forms
vanquished past tense, vanquishes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The knight _____ his rival in single combat.
Etymology
From Old French veincre, going back to Latin vincere, "to conquer" — the same root that gives us "convince" and "invincible."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for vanquish
See all rhymes for vanquish →Frequently asked questions
What does “vanquish” mean?
The word “vanquish” means to defeat someone or something completely, especially in a fight or contest. In plain terms, to vanquish someone is to beat them thoroughly and decisively — stronger and more dramatic than just "win against.".
How do you pronounce “vanquish”?
“Vanquish” is pronounced VANGK-wihsh (/ˈveɪ̯ŋkwɪʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “vanquish” in a sentence?
Here is “vanquish” used in a sentence: “The knight vanquished his rival in single combat.”
What part of speech is “vanquish”?
“Vanquish” is a verb.
Where does the word “vanquish” come from?
The word “vanquish” comes from Latin. From Old French veincre, going back to Latin vincere, "to conquer" — the same root that gives us "convince" and "invincible.".