verb
dedicate
DED-ih-kayt/ˈdedɪkeɪt/
To formally set something apart for a purpose or person.
The city dedicates its new park to a local hero.
Etymology
“Away” and “proclaim” combine in the idea of formally setting something apart for a sacred purpose. That religious use broadened to committing time, effort, or resources earnestly to any purpose.
In context
wanted to dedicate my life to preserving this ancient wisdom
More examples
- She dedicates her first novel to her grandmother.
- The congregation dedicated the chapel as a place of prayer.
- The museum dedicates an entire gallery to local history.
Forms
dedicate · dedicates · dedicated · dedicating
dedication noun — A formal commitment to a purpose or person.
Similar words
- devote
- Emphasizes committing time or resources rather than formal recognition.
- consecrate
- Specifically sets something apart as sacred or for religious use.
- earmark
- Reserves resources for a purpose without honoring a person.