The World of Words: Vocabulary for College Success ... - eLibrary

308 Chapter 10 Word Elements: Thought and BeliefThe consultant’s Ph.D. and extensive experience establishedhis credibility.NOTE: Undermine is often used with a possessive pronoun, as in “Sheundermined her credibility,” “Don’t undermine your credibility,” “I’lltry not to undermine my credibility.” Related Wordcredible (adjective) (krĕdə-bəl) Rodney’s handsomeness andsex appeal made him a credible Romeo in the play.2. creed (noun) krēdFrom Latin: cred (believe)set of beliefs or principlesThe creed of journalists is to provide accurate and fairnews that is in the public interest.The creed of the Muslim religion includes five centralduties: reciting the words of witness, prayer, charity,fasting, and pilgrimage.NOTE: Creed often refers to a formal system of religious or moralbeliefs. Common Phrasecreed of3. discredit (verb, noun) d˘s-krĕd˘tFrom Latin: dis- (not) cred (believe)a. to damage in reputation; disgrace; prove untrue (verb)The witness was discredited when he admitted that hehad not been at the scene of the crime.The theory that the sun revolves around the Earth hasbeen discredited.b. damage; disgrace (noun)One corrupt judge can cast discredit on the whole courtsystem. Common Phrasecast discredit onfid4. confidant (noun) kŏnf˘-dănt; kŏnf˘-däntFrom Latin: con- (together) fid (faith)a person who is trusted with the secrets of anotherRosemary told her confidant about her plans to elope.Copyright © Cengage Learning. All Right Reserved.