- Initiate
- Initiate In*i"ti*ate, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Initiated}; p. pr.
& vb. n. {Initiating}.] [L. initiatus, p. p. of initiare to
begin, fr. initium beginning. See {Initial}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. To introduce by a first act; to make a beginning with; to
set afoot; to originate; to commence; to begin or enter
upon.
[1913 Webster]
How are changes of this sort to be initiated? --I. Taylor. [1913 Webster]
2. To acquaint with the beginnings; to instruct in the rudiments or principles; to introduce. [1913 Webster]
Providence would only initiate mankind into the useful knowledge of her treasures, leaving the rest to employ our industry. --Dr. H. More. [1913 Webster]
To initiate his pupil into any part of learning, an ordinary skill in the governor is enough. --Locke. [1913 Webster]
3. To introduce into a society or organization; to confer membership on; especially, to admit to a secret order with mysterious rites or ceremonies. [1913 Webster]
The Athenians believed that he who was initiated and instructed in the mysteries would obtain celestial honor after death. --Bp. Warburton. [1913 Webster]
He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before he was one and twenty. --Spectator. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.