Initiate

Definition of Initiate

In`i´ti`ate
v. t.1.
[imp. & p. p. Initiated ; p. pr. & vb. n. Initiating .]
1.To introduce by a first act; to make a beginning with; to set afoot; to originate; to commence; to begin or enter upon.
How are changes of this sort to be initiated?
- I. Taylor.
2.To acquaint with the beginnings; to instruct in the rudiments or principles; to introduce.
Providence would only initiate mankind into the useful knowledge of her treasures, leaving the rest to employ our industry.
- Dr. H. More.
To initiate his pupil into any part of learning, an ordinary skill in the governor is enough.
- Locke.
3.To introduce into a society or organization; to confer membership on; especially, to admit to a secret order with mysterious rites or ceremonies.
The Athenians believed that he who was initiated and instructed in the mysteries would obtain celestial honor after death.
- Bp. Warburton.
He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before he was one and twenty.
- Spectator.
v. i.1.To do the first act; to perform the first rite; to take the initiative.
a.1.
1.Unpracticed; untried; new.
2.Begun; commenced; introduced to, or instructed in, the rudiments; newly admitted.
To rise in science as in bliss,
Initiate in the secrets of the skies.
- Young.
Initiate tenant by courtesy
(Law) said of a husband who becomes such in his wife's estate of inheritance by the birth of a child, but whose estate is not consummated till the death of the wife.
- Mozley & W.
n.1.One who is, or is to be, initiated.

Related Words

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