Initiate

Definition

To begin, set going, or originate; to admit or accept with formal rites into an organization or group.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃiˌeɪt/
• Respelling: in-ISH-ee-ayt (with "in" as in "tin," "ISH" as in "fish," "ee" as in "see," and "ayt" as in "say")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃieɪt/
• Respelling: in-ISH-ee-ayt (with "in" as in "tin," "ISH" as in "fish," "ee" as in "see," and "ayt" as in "say")

In both dialects, "initiate" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "ISH." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-ISH-ee-ayt."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin "initiare", which means 'to begin', from "initium" meaning 'beginning', based on "inire" ('to go in') from "in-" ('into, in') + "ire" ('to go').

Derivatives

• Initiation (noun)
• Initiator (noun)
• Initiated (verb, past tense)
• Initiating (verb, present participle)
• Initiative (noun)

Synonyms

• Begin
• Commence
• Launch

Antonyms

• Conclude
• Terminate
• Finish

Usage

"Initiate" is used to describe the act of starting something, such as a project or process, or admitting someone into a group or activity.

Related Terms

• Start
• Introduction
• Onset
• Origin
• Commencement

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Initiate (Verb, General): To begin or start something.
  • Example: "The company will initiate a new marketing campaign next month."

• Initiate (Verb, Introduction): To introduce someone to a new activity, skill, or area.
  • Example: "He was initiated into the world of classical music at a young age."

• Initiate (Verb, Admission): To admit someone into a society or group, often with a special ceremony.
  • Example: "She was initiated into the secret society during the annual ceremony."

Noun

• Initiate (Noun, Person): A person who has been admitted into a group or activity, especially with a ceremony.
  • Example: "The new initiates were welcomed into the organization with open arms."

Note: "Initiate" can refer to both the action of beginning something or someone who has just begun a new endeavor or joined a group.