pro|pose

pro|pose «pruh POHZ», verb, -posed, -pos|ing.

–v.t.

1. to put forward for consideration, discussion, acceptance, or trial; suggest: »

to propose a theory or explanation. She proposed that we take turns at the swing. Men must be taught as if you taught them not, And things unknown proposed as things forgot (Alexander Pope).

SYNONYM(S): offer.

2. to present (the name of someone) for an office or membership: »

I am proposing Jack for president.

SYNONYM(S): nominate.

3. to present as a toast to be drunk.

4. to intend; plan: »

She proposes to save half of all she earns.

SYNONYM(S): design, purpose.

–v.i.

1. to make an offer of marriage.

2. to form a design or purpose: »

Man proposes, God disposes.

╂[< Middle French, Old French proposer (tydfpro- forth + poser; see etym. under pose¹ (Cf. ↑pose)) adaptation of Latin prōpōnere; see etym. under propone (Cf. ↑propone)]

–pro|pos´er, noun.