devour - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
devour Word Meanings
- to eat something eagerly or in large amounts
- to consume destructively or completely
- to take in with great zeal, like learning or information
devour Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
devour Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈvaʊə/
US
/dɪˈvaʊɚ/
devour Word Etymology
The word 'devour' comes from the Latin 'devorare', where 'de-' means 'down' and 'vorare' means 'to eat'. It evolved through Old French to its current form in English. Imagine a powerful beast tearing through its prey, consuming every aspect of it, which captures the essence of the word 'devour'.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Devour means to eat something eagerly or in large amounts, and it often describes a hungry animal or a rapid, voracious meal. It can also describe consuming something destructively or completely, such as a fire devouring a forest, or debt devouring a person. In figurative use, you can devour information, books, or ideas when you learn with great zeal and focus. The word carries a sense of intensity that goes beyond simply eating; it implies speed, appetite, and total absorption. Note that devour usually refers to strong, sometimes enthusiastic action, not a casual bite. Common synonyms include gobble up, scarf down, or consume with relish. Avoid using devour for small snacks or gentle enjoyment.
Usage Reminders
- • Use devour for strong, energetic eating.
- • Don’t use it for small bites or gentle meals.
- • It often works figuratively with information, books, or ideas.
- • Pair with subjects like a book, news, or a meal.
- • Watch tense and form: devours, devoured, devouring.
Common Misconceptions
- Devour only relates to food, not ideas or information.
- Devour means eating slowly or casually.
- Devour can be used for small snacks.
- Devour is interchangeable with eat in all contexts.
- Devour has no figurative uses.
Thinking Differences
Think of devour as a high-energy, almost cinematic act of consumption that English often uses with both food and ideas. Learners may translate it too literally as 'to eat quickly' and miss the figurative uses with information, books, or passion.
Learning Tips
- Visualize intensity: picture a hungry animal or a roaring fire.
- Pair with strong nouns: devour a book, devour the news.
- Note the figurative uses: you can devour information, not just food.
- Practice with verbs: devours (present), devoured (past), devouring (present participle).
- Avoid for small bites; use words like nibble or snack for gentler eating.
- Compare with eat to feel the difference in tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'devour'?
A.Eat quickly and greedily
B.Sleep peacefully
C.Study quietly
D.Sing loudly
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'devour' used correctly?
A.She devoured the book in one night.
B.He whispered softly at the concert.
C.They danced vigorously at the party.
D.I painted the house pink.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'devour'?
A.Sample
B.Consume
C.Nibble
D.Faint
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would someone 'devour' a meal?
A.Taking tiny bites
B.Sharing with friends
C.Finishing quickly and eagerly
D.Eating slowly
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'devour' in a real-life context?
A.I took a short nap.
B.She drank the tea slowly.
C.He devoured the delicious pizza in mere minutes.
D.They discussed the book for hours.
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