VocabDictionary

initiated

/ɪˈnɪʃ.i.eɪ.tɪd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To cause a process or action to begin; to set in motion.

Example Sentences:
  • The government initiated a new program to improve public health.
  • The company initiated legal proceedings against its competitor.
2.verb

To admit someone into a secret or obscure society or group, typically with a ritual.

Example Sentences:
  • He was initiated into the fraternity during a private ceremony.
  • Only the newly initiated members were allowed to attend the secret meeting.
3.adjective

Having been admitted into a particular group or having gained specialized knowledge.

Example Sentences:
  • The nuances of the trade were clear only to the initiated.
  • She felt like an initiated member of the inner circle.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “initiated”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'initiare' (to begin, originate), which itself comes from 'initium' (a beginning or entrance). The term originally carried a strong sense of admission into a secret society or religious rite, evolving over time to encompass the general sense of starting any process or action.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'in-it-i-ate': You are 'in it' now because you have started the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About “initiated

1. What is the meaning of “initiated” in English?

In English, initiated (verb) is defined as: “To cause a process or action to begin; to set in motion.”.

2. How do you use “initiated” in a sentence?

The government initiated a new program to improve public health.

3. What are English synonyms of “initiated”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “initiated”?

Derived from the Latin 'initiare' (to begin, originate), which itself comes from 'initium' (a beginning or entrance). The term originally carried a strong sense of admission into a secret society or religious rite, evolving over time to encompass the general sense of starting any process or action.