Donate
/ˈdəʊneɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo give something, especially money or goods, to help a person or organization.
/ˈdəʊneɪt/
To give something, typically money or goods, to a charity or other organization.
They donated a large sum of money to the local hospital.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend's in need of help. Donating is like giving them something—money, food, or even clothes—to make them feel better. It's like when you give your toys to other kids who don't have any.
👶 For kids: Giving something to someone or something to help them. Like giving your old toys to a toy drive.
More Examples
I decided to donate my old clothes to the charity.
Many people donate blood regularly.
The company donates a percentage of its profits to environmental causes.
How It's Used
"She donated generously to the homeless shelter."
"He decided to donate his organs after his death."
To give time or effort to support a cause or organization.
/ˈdəʊneɪt/
To contribute time or effort to a cause or organization.
He donates several hours a week to the local library.
💡 Simply: Sometimes you can donate more than just money. Imagine helping out at a local event. Donating time is giving some of your hours to help others or a good cause.
👶 For kids: Giving your time to help others. Like helping to clean the park.
More Examples
Many volunteers donate their skills to help others.
She donates her expertise to the non-profit organization.
How It's Used
"She donates her time to the animal shelter every weekend."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
donate blood
To give blood to be used in transfusions for people who need it.
"I go to the blood bank every few months to donate blood."
donate one's time
To volunteer to help with a cause or organization.
"She generously donates her time to the local soup kitchen."
From Latin donare, meaning 'to give' or 'to grant'. It evolved through Old French and entered English around the 14th century.
The word 'donate' has been used since the 14th century, primarily in religious contexts and for charitable giving.
Memory tip
Think of 'do' + 'nate' (as in, 'nation'). You 'do' something good for the nation by giving.
Word Origin
"to give, to grant"