fulgurate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈfʌlɡjʊˌreɪt/
KK: /fʌlɡjʊˌreɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To produce flashes of light, similar to lightning.
Example
The storm caused the sky to fulgurate with bright flashes of light.
Tense Forms
Past: fulgurated
Past Participle: fulgurated
Conversation
Did you see that storm last night?
Yeah, it was wild! I could hear it from my window.
I know, the way the sky would fulgurate was amazing.
Totally! It felt like nature was putting on a show.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
flash
spark
glimmer
Antonyms
dull
fade
dim
transitive verb
Definition
To destroy abnormal tissue using electric current or to emit light in flashes.
Example
The surgeon decided to fulgurate the tumor to eliminate the abnormal cells.
Tense Forms
Past: fulgurated
Past Participle: fulgurated
Conversation
Did you hear about the new treatment that can fulgurate tumors with electricity?
Yeah, I read about it! It sounds pretty revolutionary.
I wonder how effective it is compared to traditional methods.
Root Explanation
Fulgurate → It is formed from "fulgur" (meaning lightning) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to cause or perform an action). The word "fulgurate" means to produce or emit flashes of light, akin to the action of lightning.
Memory Tip
Think of 'fulgur' which relates to lightning, and remember that 'fulgurate' means to emit flashes of light like lightning.
Visually Confused Words
fulcrate
fluorate
figurate
augurate
fulminurate
fluate