initiate

Definitions

1. verb

   To begin; to start.

   Examples

   • How are changes of this sort to be initiated?
   • This is a very strong move, aptly timed. It initiates the tactical conception which routs Black's hopes.
   ≈commence≈institute
2. verb

   To instruct in the rudiments or principles; to introduce.

   Examples

   • Divine Providence would only initiate and enter mankind into the useful knowledge of her, leaving the rest to employ our industry.
   • to initiate his pupil in any part of learning
3. verb

   To confer membership on; especially, to admit to a secret order with mysterious rites or ceremonies.

   Examples

   • The Athenians believed that he who was initiated and instructed in the mysteries would obtain celestial honour after death.
   • He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before he was one and twenty.
4. verb

   To do the first act; to perform the first rite; to take the initiative.

   Example

   • The king himself initiates to the power; Scatters with quivering hand the sacred flour, And the stream sprinkles.
5. noun

   A new member of an organization.

6. noun

   One who has been through a ceremony of initiation.

7. noun

   One who is oriented in and familiar with a topic or subject; especially, one who is an expert in it.

   ≠noninitiate≠novice
8. adjective

   Unpracticed, untried, new.

   Example

   • the initiate fear that wants hard use
9. adjective

   Begun, commenced, introduced to or in the rudiments (of), newly admitted.

   Example

   • To rise in science as in bliss, / Initiate in the secrets of the skies.