devote
dih-VOHT
Devote (verb) means to give one's time, energy, or resources entirely to a particular purpose or person. Example: “She devotes every weekend to volunteering at the shelter.”
verb
1
To give one's time, energy, or resources entirely to a particular purpose or person.
"She devotes every weekend to volunteering at the shelter."
"He devoted his career to fighting for workers' rights."
"My grandmother devoted herself to caring for her sister after the illness."
How to use devote
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo commit your time or effort completely to something you care about.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
devote time to
devote oneself to
devote energy to
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- devotes
- Past tense
- devoted
- Comparative
- more devote
- Superlative
- most devote
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ every weekend to volunteering at the shelter.
Etymology
From Latin dēvōtus, past participle of dēvovēre, "to vow, dedicate solemnly, or sacrifice."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for devote
See all rhymes for devote →Frequently asked questions
What does “devote” mean?
The word “devote” means to give one's time, energy, or resources entirely to a particular purpose or person. In plain terms, to commit your time or effort completely to something you care about.
How do you pronounce “devote”?
“Devote” is pronounced dih-VOHT (/dɪˈvoʊt/ in IPA).
How do you use “devote” in a sentence?
Here is “devote” used in a sentence: “She devotes every weekend to volunteering at the shelter.”
What part of speech is “devote”?
“Devote” is a verb.
Where does the word “devote” come from?
The word “devote” comes from Latin. From Latin dēvōtus, past participle of dēvovēre, "to vow, dedicate solemnly, or sacrifice.".
Is “devote” a common word?
“Devote” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
