English · Word Candidate

initiate

/ɪˈnɪʃ.i.eɪt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: initiates · initiating · initiated

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To begin; to start.

Verb

How are changes of this sort to be initiated?

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To instruct in the rudiments or principles; to introduce.

Verb

Divine Providence would only initiate and enter mankind into the useful knowledge of her, leaving the rest to employ our industry.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

A new member of an organization.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

One who has been through a ceremony of initiation.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “initiate” mean?

To begin; to start.

Is “initiate” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.