Texas Court Reporter Practice Exam

What does "enervate" mean?

1. To inspire

2. To weaken

3. To energize

4. To aggravate

The correct answer is: To weaken

The term "enervate" accurately means to weaken, both physically and mentally. When something enervates, it diminishes strength or vitality, leading to a state of debilitation. This word is often used in contexts where excessive strain, fatigue, or emotional drain is involved, stripping away energy and power. In contrast, the other choices present meanings that do not align with the definition of "enervate." Being inspired conveys a sense of motivation and positivity, energizing is to invoke energy or vigor, and to aggravate involves making something worse or more serious. None of these definitions captures the essence of weakening that is inherent in the meaning of "enervate." Therefore, recognizing "enervate" as to weaken enhances understanding of its usage and context in language.