verb
inform
To influence how something develops or is understood.
Local residents' concerns inform the design of the new park.
Etymology
The Latin verb means to give form to. This sense preserves that shaping action when knowledge or circumstances influence how an idea develops or is understood.
More examples
- Her experience as a nurse informs her writing.
- The survey results informed our decision to extend library hours.
- Historical context is essential to informing our understanding of the novel.
Forms
inform · informs · informed · informing