εξαντλώ
Lemma: εξαντλώ
Translation: to exhaust; to deplete; to drain; to use up; to wear out (verb)
Etymology: From the prefix εξ- (ex-, meaning 'out of' or 'completely') combined with αντλώ (to draw water, to pump). The root αντλώ comes from ancient Greek ἀντλέω, related to the noun ἄντλος (bilge water, ship's hold). The English cognate 'exhaust' shares the same Latin prefix ex- meaning 'out'. The imagery is of completely draining or pumping out all liquid from a container, which metaphorically extends to depleting energy, resources, or strength.
Mnemonics
- Think 'ex-' (out) + 'antique well' - pumping all water out of an old well until it's completely dry
- Remember 'exhaust' - both start with 'ex' and mean to completely drain
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in both physical and metaphorical contexts. Often heard in discussions about work fatigue, resource management, and environmental concerns. The passive form εξαντλούμαι (to be exhausted) is very frequently used in everyday conversation.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: αντλώ means simply 'to draw' or 'to pump' while εξαντλώ means 'to completely exhaust or drain'
Confused word:
Αντλώ νερό από το πηγάδι.
I draw water from the well.
Notes: εξαντλώ is the intensified form with the prefix εξ- indicating completion or thoroughness
Mnemonic: εξ- prefix = EXhaustion (complete), αντλώ alone = just drawing/pumping