originate
Originate (verb) means to come into existence, or to have a particular starting point. Example: “The tradition originated in medieval France.”
How to use originate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo start from somewhere, or to create something new.
Fairly formal — "come from" or "start" work fine in everyday speech.
Word forms
originated past tense, originates singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The tradition _____ in medieval France.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin originatus, from origo, "beginning" — a later formal verb built directly on the noun "origin."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for originate
See all rhymes for originate →Frequently asked questions
What does “originate” mean?
The word “originate” means to come into existence, or to have a particular starting point. In plain terms, to start from somewhere, or to create something new.
How do you pronounce “originate”?
“Originate” is pronounced uh-RIHD-zhih-nayt (/əˈɹɪd͡ʒɪneɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “originate” in a sentence?
Here is “originate” used in a sentence: “The tradition originated in medieval France.”
What is another word for “originate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “originate” include initiate and take shape.
What is the opposite of “originate”?
The opposite of “originate” — its antonyms — are terminate, end and destinate.
What part of speech is “originate”?
“Originate” is a verb.
Where does the word “originate” come from?
The word “originate” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin originatus, from origo, "beginning" — a later formal verb built directly on the noun "origin.".
Is “originate” a common word?
“Originate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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