i|ni´ti|a´tor

i|ni|ti|ate «verb. ih NIHSH ee ayt; noun, adjective. ih NIHSH ee iht, -ayt», verb, -at|ed, -at|ing, noun, adjective.

–v.t.

1. to be the first one to start; set going; begin: »

This year we shall initiate a series of free concerts.

SYNONYM(S): originate, commence.

2. to admit (a person) by special forms or ceremonies into a group or society: »

The old members initiated the new members.

SYNONYM(S): install, induct.

3. to help to get a first understanding; introduce into the knowledge of some art or subject: »

to initiate a person into business methods. The teacher initiated the class into the wonders of science by telling a few interesting things about the earth and stars.

–n.

a person who is or has been initiated.

–adj.

1. initiated.

2. Obsolete. having to do with one newly initiated.

╂[< Latin initiāre (with English -ate¹) < initium a beginning; see etym. at initial (Cf. ↑initial)]

–i|ni´ti|a´tor, noun.