Depart Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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depart

[dɪˈpɑːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

airport

To leave, especially to start a journey.

Synonyms

go, leave, set out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
depart

This is often used in formal or official situations, such as public announcements or schedules. It means to leave a place, especially to start a journey.

  • The train will depart from platform 5 at 6 PM.
  • The flight is scheduled to depart at 10 AM.
leave

This can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It means to go away from a place or a person, and can also imply permanence or a longer duration.

  • I leave for work at 8 AM every day.
  • She had to leave the meeting early.
go

This word is very general and informal. It can be used in everyday conversation to mean leaving a place or moving from one place to another.

  • I have to go now, it's getting late.
  • Let's go to the park this afternoon.
set out

This phrase is typically used when starting a journey, especially one that is planned and might be long or challenging.

  • They set out on their road trip early in the morning.
  • He set out on a journey to discover new lands.

Examples of usage

  • He departed for Paris early in the morning.
  • The flight is scheduled to depart at 3:00 PM.
Context #2 | Noun

formal

The act of leaving a place, especially for a journey.

Synonyms

exit, going away, leaving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
depart

Formal setting, usually for travel or official departure.

  • The train will depart at 6 PM
  • The CEO will depart after the meeting
leaving

Everyday setting, generally referring to any kind of departure.

  • She is leaving the party now
  • They are leaving for the airport soon
exit

Neutral or instructional setting, often referring to leaving a location or scene.

  • Please exit through the back door
  • She made a quick exit from the room
going away

Casual setting, often referring to leaving for a vacation or a temporary period.

  • He is going away for the weekend
  • They're going away on a trip next month

Examples of usage

  • His sudden departure surprised everyone.
  • We will miss her upon her departure.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of departing is significant, often associated with new beginnings or journeys.
  • Departures are commonly celebrated or mourned in various traditions, reflecting the emotional weight of leaving.
  • Airports and train stations around the world use the term 'depart' prominently, marking it as a key part of travel culture.

Literature

  • In literature, the theme of departure often represents a character's growth or change, symbolizing moments of transition.
  • Numerous poems and stories express the bittersweet feeling associated with departing, highlighting nostalgia and hope.
  • Famous works like Shakespeare's plays frequently explore the emotional depths of parting between lovers or friends.

Psychology

  • Departures can trigger feelings of anxiety and sadness, as they often signify loss of connection.
  • Psychologists suggest that people often form attachments to places and individuals, making departures emotionally challenging.
  • The process of adjusting after a departure is an important area of study in understanding human relationships and coping mechanisms.

Travel

  • In travel contexts, 'depart' helps denote scheduling and timing, marking the moments people must prepare for their trips.
  • Airline etiquette often includes announcements reminding passengers to gather belongings before they depart.
  • Travel enthusiasts often plan departures meticulously, considering factors like time of day and weather.

Origin of 'depart'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Depart' comes from the Old French word 'departir,' meaning to divide or separate.
  • The root of the word is derived from Latin 'departire,' which is a combination of 'de-' (down from) and 'partire' (to divide).
  • The word has evolved over centuries to primarily mean leaving rather than dividing.

The word 'depart' originated from the Old French word 'departir', which means to divide or leave. It entered the English language in the 13th century and has since evolved to represent the act of leaving or starting a journey. Over time, 'depart' has become a commonly used verb to describe moving away from a place or setting out on a trip.


See also: departed, departing, department, departments, departure.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,862 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.