dedicate
/ˈdɛdɪkeɪt/
verb
Origin
Latin
dedicare — to proclaim, declare, dedicate, or consecrate
Overview
Meaning Now
- To set aside or commit to a specific purpose, function, or recipient.
- To address or inscribe a literary, musical, or artistic work to a person or entity as a tribute.
Literal older meaning
To announce or proclaim (something) as sacred or set apart
Language path
Latin → Middle English → English
Earliest form
dedicaten
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The word originates from the Roman practice of 'dedicatio', which referred to the formal, ritualistic consecration of temples, statues, or altars to a specific deity or purpose.
Evolution
- Classical Latin
dēdicāre
“to declare, consecrate, or proclaim”
From de- (off, away) + dicare (to make known/proclaim).
- Late Latin
dedicatio
“a consecration or setting apart”
Noun form related to the action.
- Middle English
dedicaten
“to devote or consecrate”
Adopted into Middle English via Old French.
- Modern English
dedicate
“to commit to a purpose; to inscribe a work”
Standardized spelling and usage.
Connections
Word parts
de-
prefix
away or completely
dic-
root
to speak, proclaim, or make known
-ate
suffix
verb-forming suffix
Related across languages
French
dédier
to dedicate
Spanish
dedicar
to dedicate
Explore next
Related to dedicate
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.