Langimage
English

navigate

|nav/i/gate|

B2

/ˈnævɪˌɡeɪt/

directing a course

Etymology
Etymology Information

'navigate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'navigare,' where 'navis' meant 'ship' and 'agere' meant 'to drive.'

Historical Evolution

'navigare' transformed into the French word 'naviguer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'navigate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to drive a ship,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to plan and direct the course of a ship or other form of transport.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to plan and direct the course of a ship, aircraft, or other form of transport, especially by using instruments or maps.

The captain navigated the ship through the storm.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to find one's way in a difficult situation or through a complex system.

She navigated the complex bureaucracy to get her visa.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39