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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

dedication

deh-dih-KAY-shuhn

Dedication (noun) means Deep commitment and hard work devoted to a task, cause, or person. Example: “Her dedication to the project impressed the entire board.”

noun
1
Deep commitment and hard work devoted to a task, cause, or person.
"Her dedication to the project impressed the entire board."
2
A short note in a book or artwork honouring someone, usually placed at the front.
"The dedication in the front of the book was written for his late wife."
3
A formal ceremony marking the opening or completion of something.
"The town held a dedication ceremony for the new war memorial."

How to use dedication

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishStrong commitment to something, a tribute written in a book, or an opening ceremony.

Common pairings
show dedication book dedication dedication ceremony

Word forms

dedications plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ to the project impressed the entire board.

Etymology

From Old French dedicacion, from Latin dēdicātiō, built on dēdicātus.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for dedication

See all rhymes for dedication →

Frequently asked questions

What does “dedication” mean?

The word “dedication” means deep commitment and hard work devoted to a task, cause, or person. In plain terms, strong commitment to something, a tribute written in a book, or an opening ceremony.

How do you pronounce “dedication”?

“Dedication” is pronounced deh-dih-KAY-shuhn (/ˌdɛdɪˈkeɪʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “dedication” in a sentence?

Here is “dedication” used in a sentence: “Her dedication to the project impressed the entire board.”

What part of speech is “dedication”?

“Dedication” is a noun.

Where does the word “dedication” come from?

The word “dedication” comes from Latin. From Old French dedicacion, from Latin dēdicātiō, built on dēdicātus.

Is “dedication” a common word?

“Dedication” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “dedication” have?

“Dedication” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: deep commitment and hard work devoted to a task, cause, or person.

What is the difference between 'dedication' and 'commitment'?

The two overlap, but 'dedication' stresses wholehearted devotion and hard work given to a task, cause, or person, often with emotional investment. 'Commitment' emphasises a binding obligation or promise to follow through, so you can be committed out of duty while dedication implies genuine devotion.

What is the difference between 'dedication' and 'devotion'?

Both express deep loyalty and effort, but 'dedication' leans toward commitment and hard work directed at a task or goal, while 'devotion' leans toward deep love or faithfulness. Dedication is often used for careers and causes, devotion for people and beliefs.

What is a 'dedication' at the front of a book?

A dedication is a short note in a book or artwork honouring someone, usually placed at the front. Authors use it to acknowledge a person who inspired or supported them, as in 'For my mother.'

What is a 'dedication ceremony'?

A dedication ceremony is a formal event marking the opening or completion of something, such as a building, monument, or place of worship. It publicly sets the thing apart for its intended purpose.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial