Devote: meaning, definitions and examples

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devote

[dɪˈvəʊt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

to one's time or effort

To give all or a large part of one's time or resources to a particular activity, purpose, or person. Devote implies a strong commitment or dedication to something or someone.

Synonyms

commit, dedicate, pledge, sacrifice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
devote	used when someone gives a large amount of their time, effort, or resources to a particular task or purpose. She decided to devote herself to teaching underprivileged children. He devotes several hours every week to volunteer work.
dedicate	appropriate when showing a deep level of loyalty or affection towards a task, cause, or person, often implying a heartfelt and earnest effort. The book is dedicated to his parents. She dedicated her life to finding a cure for the disease.
commit	used when making a decision to do something and promising to stick with it, often implying a serious or long-term obligation. He committed to improving his fitness by going to the gym every day. She has committed to finishing the project by the deadline.
pledge	typically used when making a formal or solemn promise to do or support something, often in a public manner. The members pledged to support the new community initiative. He pledged allegiance to the flag.
sacrifice	used when giving up something valuable or important for the sake of other considerations, often with a sense of loss or difficulty. She made many sacrifices to ensure her children had a good education. He sacrificed his own happiness for the well-being of his family.

Examples of usage

She devoted her life to helping others in need.
He devoted countless hours to studying for the exam.
The team devoted themselves to winning the championship.
She devoted all her energy to the project.
He devoted his entire career to scientific research.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to a deity or religious purpose

To dedicate or consecrate to a sacred purpose. Devote is often used in the context of religious rituals or practices.

Synonyms

consecrate, dedicate, hallow, sanctify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
devote	Use this word when discussing commitment of time, energy, or resources to a specific cause, task, or purpose. It often implies a strong sense of loyalty or passion. She decided to devote her life to helping the less fortunate. He devotes two hours daily to practicing the piano.
consecrate	This word is typically used in a religious or formal context to describe something that is made or declared sacred. It implies a solemn and official act. The church was consecrated in a ceremony attended by hundreds. The bishop will consecrate the new altar next Sunday.
dedicate	This word is often used to show a serious commitment or allocation of resources, time, or efforts to a specific purpose or task. It can also be used to honor someone by naming an object or work after them. They dedicated the new library to a former mayor. She dedicated her book to her parents.
hallow	This word is typically used in a religious context to refer to making something holy or sacred. It can also mean to honor something as holy. This ground is hallowed by the blood of the soldiers who fought here. Let us hallow this day with our prayers and reflections.
sanctify	This word also carries a religious connotation and means to make something holy or purify it. It can be used in a broader sense to indicate making something extremely clean or morally pure. The ritual is intended to sanctify the water for the baptism. They hoped that their efforts would sanctify their community.

Examples of usage

She devoted the temple to the goddess.
He devoted his prayers to the well-being of his family.
The monks devoted themselves to a life of prayer and meditation.
They devoted the ceremony to honoring their ancestors.
The community devoted a day to spiritual reflection.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'devote' comes from the Latin 'devotare', meaning to dedicate or consecrate.
The term has been used in English since the 15th century, originally focusing on religious or sacred commitments.
Over time, 'devote' evolved to encompass both sacred and secular commitments, such as time to hobbies or careers.

Psychology

Research shows that devotion can enhance emotional well-being, as dedicated involvement in activities brings joy and satisfaction.
When individuals devote themselves to a cause or relationship, they often experience a stronger sense of identity and purpose.
Psychologically, feeling devoted can improve resilience, as it fosters support systems and strong connections in challenging times.

Culture

In many cultures, devoting time to family and community is seen as a virtue, reinforcing social bonds and trust.
Artistic devotion is celebrated in various cultures, with artists dedicating their works to loved ones or causes, impacting society deeply.
The concept of devotion is prominent in religion, with followers dedicating their lives to the practice and sharing their beliefs.

Literature

Numerous literary works explore themes of devotion, highlighting the sacrifices characters make for their loved ones or ideals.
Classic novels often depict the struggle of characters torn between personal desires and their devoted duties, creating dramatic tension.
Poetry often uses the theme of devotion to express deep feelings towards loved ones, nature, or abstract concepts like freedom.

History

Throughout history, many figures, including leaders, scientists, and artists, have devoted their lives to significant causes, leaving lasting legacies.
Historical accounts reveal how devotion during times of war can inspire bravery and camaraderie among soldiers fighting for a common goal.
Religious leaders across various traditions have emphasized the importance of devotion in community service and social justice.

Translations

Translations of the word "devote" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dedicar

🇮🇳 समर्पित करना

🇩🇪 widmen

🇮🇩 mendedikasikan

🇺🇦 присвячувати

🇵🇱 poświęcać

🇯🇵 捧げる (sasageru)

🇫🇷 consacrer

🇪🇸 dedicar

🇹🇷 adamak

🇰🇷 바치다 (bachida)

🇸🇦 كرس

🇨🇿 věnovat

🇸🇰 venovať

🇨🇳 奉献 (fèngxiàn)

🇸🇮 posvetiti

🇮🇸 helga

🇰🇿 арнау

🇬🇪 უძღვნა

🇦🇿 həsr etmək

🇲🇽 dedicar

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,490 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6487 inflammatory
6488 agitation
6489 gang
6490 devote
6491 pastor
6492 hairs
6493 unpublished
...