Devote
/dɪˈvəʊt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo give a considerable amount of time and effort to a person, activity, or cause.
/dɪˈvəʊt/
To give one's time, attention, or effort to something or someone.
The teacher devoted many hours to grading the students' papers.
💡 Simply: It's like when you really, really care about something and put all your energy into it. For example, a volunteer might devote a lot of their time to helping animals at a shelter.
👶 For kids: To spend your time and energy on something that you think is important.
More Examples
The scientists devoted years to finding a cure for the disease.
She decided to devote her career to public service.
How It's Used
"She devoted her life to helping others."
"Students should devote sufficient time to their studies."
"He devoted his creative energy to painting."
To dedicate something, such as a building or work of art, to someone or something.
/dɪˈvəʊt/
To dedicate or set apart for a specific purpose.
The memorial was devoted to those who died in the war.
💡 Simply: It's like when you're creating something and decide it's for a specific person, place, or cause. For example, an artist might devote their painting to a loved one.
👶 For kids: To say something is especially for someone or something.
More Examples
The new wing of the hospital was devoted to cancer research.
The museum devoted a whole gallery to the artist's work.
How It's Used
"The chapel was devoted to Saint Michael."
"The composer devoted the symphony to his late wife."
"The author devoted the book to her daughter."
Idioms & expressions
devoted to
Showing loyalty and love to someone or something.
"She is devoted to her family."
From Middle English devoten, from Old French devoter, from Latin devōtus, past participle of devovēre ('to vow, consecrate').
The word 'devote' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to dedicating something to a religious purpose.
Memory tip
Think of 'vote' - you 'de-vote' your time, like you 'vote' for something important.
Word Origin
"to vow, consecrate"