Collect Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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collect

[kษ™หˆlษ›kt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

data

To bring or gather together

Synonyms

accumulate, assemble, gather.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
collect

Use 'collect' when referring to bringing items together systematically or as a hobby. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • She likes to collect stamps from different countries.
  • The charity is organizing a drive to collect donations for the homeless.
gather

Use 'gather' when referring to bringing together items or people, typically in an informal context. It suggests a bringing together for a purpose or event.

  • Let's gather some flowers for the centerpiece.
  • People began to gather in the town square for the parade.
accumulate

Use 'accumulate' when referring to gathering items over time, often without a specific order. It often implies a gradual increase and can carry a formal tone.

  • Over the years, he managed to accumulate a significant amount of wealth.
  • Dust began to accumulate on the shelves as nobody cleaned the room.
assemble

Use 'assemble' when referring to putting the parts of something together, often something that is built or constructed. It is commonly used in contexts like instructions, meetings, and gatherings.

  • The workers will assemble the new furniture in the office tomorrow.
  • All the team members will assemble in the conference room at 10 AM.

Examples of usage

  • I collect stamps as a hobby.
  • She collects rare books.
  • The company collects data for research purposes.
Context #2 | Noun

art

A work of art that is a collection of objects or items

Synonyms

assortment, gallery, selection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
collect

Used when gathering items or data from various places, either physically or as information.

  • She likes to collect stamps from different countries
  • The teacher asked the students to collect information on ancient civilizations
selection

Highlights the process of choosing from a set of options or a small group of choices available, often implying a considered or curated choice.

  • He made a careful selection of the best books to read
  • The chefโ€™s special selection includes the finest ingredients
assortment

Refers to a variety or mix of different items or things and is often used when emphasizing the diversity or range of the selection.

  • The gift shop has an assortment of souvenirs
  • We were offered an assortment of desserts at the party
gallery

Typically used to describe a place where art is exhibited, but can also refer to a collection of images or objects displayed together online or physically.

  • We visited the art gallery downtown
  • The website has a gallery of the latest product designs

Examples of usage

  • She exhibited her collect at the gallery.
  • The museum has a vast collect of ancient artifacts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Collecting items can create a sense of identity and belonging as people often collect what resonates with their interests.
  • Engaging in collecting can trigger dopamine in the brain, providing feelings of joy and accomplishment.
  • Organizing and displaying collections can enhance self-esteem and personal pride, particularly in hobbyists.

Culture

  • Around the world, people collect a variety of items โ€“ from coins and stamps to comic books and art.
  • In Asian cultures, collecting unique and unusual items is a revered hobby, often celebrated as a form of artistry.
  • Certain collections, like vintage toys or vinyl records, can signify nostalgia and a connection to oneโ€™s childhood.

Science

  • In biology, scientists collect samples to study and understand ecosystems, contributing to ecological research.
  • Archaeologists often collect artifacts to piece together historical narratives and understand ancient cultures.
  • Collecting data in scientific research helps in drawing conclusions and improving knowledge about various phenomena.

Pop Culture

  • TV shows and movies often depict characters who collect quirky items, reflecting their personalities and interests.
  • Collecting has led to the establishment of clubs and conventions, such as Comic-Con, where fans share their collections.
  • Famous collectors like Leonardo DiCaprio and Ellen DeGeneres showcase their unique collections, inspiring others.

Origin of 'collect'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'collectus', which means 'gathered together'.
  • The root 'legere' in Latin means 'to gather' or 'to read', linking the concept of collecting with gathering knowledge.
  • In Middle French, 'collecter' was used in the same context of gathering or assembling.

The word 'collect' originated from the Latin word 'collectus', which means 'gathered together'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings related to gathering, assembling, or accumulating objects or data. In modern usage, 'collect' is commonly used in both everyday language and specialized fields such as art, data collection, and hobbyist activities.


See also: collectables, collected, collectible, collectibles, collecting, collection, collective, collectively, collectivize, collector, recollect.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,235, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.