dedications
|ded-i-ca-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌdɛdɪˈkeɪʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌdɛdɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n/
(dedication)
commitment to a cause
Etymology
'dedication' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'dedicatio' (from 'dedicare'), where 'de-' meant an intensifier ('completely' / 'away') and 'dicare' meant 'to proclaim' or 'to consecrate'.
'dedication' changed from Latin 'dedicatio' into Old French 'dédicace' and Middle English forms such as 'dedicacioun', and eventually became the modern English word 'dedication'.
Initially, it meant 'the act of consecrating' or 'an inscription made when something was dedicated', but over time it broadened to include 'devotion or strong commitment' as a common abstract sense.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of formally dedicating something, especially a building, monument, or institution (often involving a ceremony)
Several dedications were planned for the new community center this month.
Synonyms
Noun 2
an inscription or short message in a book or work of art stating to whom it is dedicated
The author's dedications at the front of the book thanked her family and mentors.
Synonyms
Noun 3
the quality of being committed to a task or purpose; devotion and strong effort
Her dedications to patient care over the years earned her great respect.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/02 03:03