vanquished

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitiveliteraryformal

   Defeated an opponent or enemy completely in a battle or competition.

   Grammar: Takes an object: vanquish the enemy. Often used in the passive: They were vanquished.

   Patterns

   • vanquish an enemy
   • vanquish an opponent
   • be vanquished by someone

   The hero vanquished the dragon and saved the village.

   The army vanquished its enemies in a decisive battle.

   She vanquished her rival in the final match.

2. 2verbtransitiveliteraryfigurative

   Overcame a strong feeling or problem.

   Grammar: Takes an object: vanquish fear. Often used figuratively.

   Patterns

   • vanquish fear
   • vanquish doubt
   • vanquish a problem

   He finally vanquished his fear of public speaking.

   She vanquished her doubts and applied for the job.

Word forms

Common combinations

vanquish an enemy

The knights vanquished their enemies and returned home.

vanquish a foe

In the story, the hero vanquishes a powerful foe.

be vanquished

The team was vanquished in the semifinals.

Synonyms and how they differ

defeat

More common and neutral; used in everyday contexts, while 'vanquish' is more literary.

conquer

Suggests taking control by force, often used for nations or territories.

overcome

Often used for abstract things like fear or difficulties, not for physical enemies.

Opposites

Word family

vanquisher noun

A person who defeats others.

vanquishable adjective

Able to be defeated.

Commonly confused: vanquished or vanish?

Practice

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