Actuate: meaning, definitions and examples

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actuate

 

[ ˈæktʃueɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

mechanical devices

To actuate means to put into action or motion. It is often used in the context of mechanical devices or systems that require activation. When we actuate a device, we initiate its function, which may involve the movement of parts or the response of mechanisms to a command. The term is also applicable in technological contexts, where actuators are devices that control systems, making actions happen based on inputs.

Synonyms

activate, operate, trigger

Examples of usage

  • The engineer decided to actuate the pump using the control panel.
  • The remote control is used to actuate the drone.
  • Sensors are designed to actuate alarms when triggered.

Translations

Translations of the word "actuate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atuar

🇮🇳 क्रियान्वित करना

🇩🇪 ausführen

🇮🇩 melaksanakan

🇺🇦 виконувати

🇵🇱 wykonywać

🇯🇵 実行する

🇫🇷 exécuter

🇪🇸 ejecutar

🇹🇷 uygulamak

🇰🇷 실행하다

🇸🇦 تنفيذ

🇨🇿 provést

🇸🇰 vykonať

🇨🇳 执行

🇸🇮 izvesti

🇮🇸 framkvæma

🇰🇿 орындау

🇬🇪 შესრულება

🇦🇿 icra etmək

🇲🇽 ejecutar

Etymology

The term 'actuate' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the Latin word 'actuare', which means 'to set in motion' or 'to perform'. This Latin root itself comes from 'actus', meaning 'a doing, a driving, a motion', related to the verb 'agere', meaning 'to do or act'. The development of the word reflects advancements in technology and mechanics, particularly in industrial settings where the actuating of machines and devices became essential. Over the years, 'actuate' evolved into a more specialized term within engineering and automation, referring to the specific action that causes a system to function. It is frequently encountered in the fields of robotics, electronics, and control systems.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,033, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.