informs
|in-forms|
🇺🇸
/ɪnˈfɔrmz/
🇬🇧
/ɪnˈfɔːmz/
(inform)
to give information
Etymology
'inform' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'informare', where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'formare' meant 'to form'.
'inform' changed from the Latin word 'informare' and passed into Middle English (via Anglo-Norman/Old French influence) as 'informen', eventually becoming the modern English word 'inform'.
Initially, it meant 'to give form or shape', but over time it evolved into the current primary meanings of 'to give knowledge or news' and 'to influence or shape (character/quality)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
gives someone facts or news; tells or notifies
She regularly informs the team of schedule changes.
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Verb 2
provides data or information (often used with abstract subjects: to furnish information)
The report informs policy decisions with recent research findings.
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Verb 3
shapes or influences the character or quality of something
Her cultural background informs her artistic style.
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Last updated: 2025/09/26 22:17