Initiate \In*i"ti*ate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Initiated; p. pr.
& vb. n. Initiating.] [L. initiatus, p. p. of initiare to
begin, fr. initium beginning. See Initial.]
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1. To introduce by a first act; to make a beginning with; to
set afoot; to originate; to commence; to begin or enter
upon.
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How are changes of this sort to be initiated? --I.
Taylor.
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2. To acquaint with the beginnings; to instruct in the
rudiments or principles; to introduce.
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Providence would only initiate mankind into the
useful knowledge of her treasures, leaving the rest
to employ our industry. --Dr. H. More.
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To initiate his pupil into any part of learning, an
ordinary skill in the governor is enough. --Locke.
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3. To introduce into a society or organization; to confer
membership on; especially, to admit to a secret order with
mysterious rites or ceremonies.
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The Athenians believed that he who was initiated and
instructed in the mysteries would obtain celestial
honor after death. --Bp.
Warburton.
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He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before he
was one and twenty. --Spectator.
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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
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