Vanquish

Verb

Definition: To defeat thoroughly; conquer.

Synonyms: Conquer, Defeat, Overcome, Conquer, Crush

Antonyms: Lose, Surrender, Yield

Examples:

The hero vanquished the villain and saved the day.
The army vanquished their enemies and claimed victory.

Mnemonics:

Think of "van" as a vehicle and "quish" as squishing or crushing something, so vanquish can be visualized as crushing or defeating something thoroughly.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English "va(n)quisshen", from Old French "vainquir", from Latin "vīncere" (to conquer)

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since Middle English and has maintained a consistent meaning of conquering or defeating.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Vanquish your fears"

Explanation:

This phrase means to overcome or conquer one's fears, highlighting the idea of defeating or overcoming something difficult.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "vanquish" with "banish" or "vanish".

Explanation:

While these words may sound similar, they have different meanings. "Vanquish" specifically refers to defeating or conquering, while "banish" means to exile or force someone to leave, and "vanish" means to disappear or become invisible.