Dedicate
/ˈdɛdɪkeɪt/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo give all or a large part of one's time or resources to a person, activity, or cause.
/ˈdɛdɪkeɪt/
To devote time, effort, or oneself to a particular task or purpose.
The author dedicated her latest novel to her family.
💡 Simply: Imagine you love building LEGOs. You could dedicate all your free time to building a giant LEGO castle – you'd be super focused on that project!
👶 For kids: To use your time and energy to do something special.
More Examples
The team dedicated their victory to their coach.
He dedicated his evenings to studying for the exam.
She dedicated a portion of her income to charity.
How It's Used
"She dedicated her life to helping others."
"He dedicated a significant portion of his time to the project."
To set apart and consecrate to a deity or for a sacred purpose.
/ˈdɛdɪkeɪt/
To formally declare (a thing) to be set apart for a special purpose.
The mayor dedicated the new park to the city's veterans.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're opening a new community center. You might dedicate the building, meaning you're declaring it officially open for a special use, like helping people!
👶 For kids: To say something is made special for a reason, like when a building is open for everybody.
More Examples
The building was dedicated as a memorial to the fallen soldiers.
They will dedicate the new hospital wing at the end of the month.
The author dedicated his book to his parents for their support
How It's Used
"They dedicated the new library in a grand ceremony."
"The church was dedicated to Saint Michael."
To address or inscribe (a book, piece of music, or other work of art) to someone as a sign of respect or affection.
/ˈdɛdɪkeɪt/
To inscribe a work of art or literature to someone in a sign of affection or respect.
The composer dedicated the symphony to his late mother.
💡 Simply: When an author writes a book, they might write at the beginning, 'I dedicate this book to my mom!' That's showing love and appreciation!
👶 For kids: To say who a book or song is for.
More Examples
The artist dedicated their sculpture to the memory of their friend.
The novel was dedicated to all those who supported the writer.
She decided to dedicate the album to her loyal fans.
How It's Used
"The author dedicated the book to his wife."
"The artist dedicated the painting to their mentor."
Idioms & expressions
dedicate oneself to
To commit one's time and energy to a particular cause or activity.
"She dedicated herself to improving the lives of children."
From Latin *dēdicāre* 'to proclaim, consecrate,' from *dē-* 'completely' + *dicāre* 'to declare, consecrate.'
Historically, 'dedicate' was frequently used in religious contexts, referring to the consecration of places or objects to a deity. Its use has expanded to encompass personal commitments and artistic tributes.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'devote.' When you dedicate something, you're devoting your energy to it.
Word Origin
"To declare, set apart, or consecrate."