verb (used with object), ed·u·cat·ed, ed·u·cat·ing.
- to develop the faculties and powers of (a person) by teaching, instruction, or schooling.
- to qualify by instruction or training for a particular calling, practice, etc.; train: to educate someone for law.
- to provide schooling or training for; send to school.
- to develop or train (the ear, taste, etc.): to educate one’s palate to appreciate fine food.
- to inform: to educate oneself about the best course of action.
verb (used without object), ed·u·cat·ed, ed·u·cat·ing.
- to educate a person or group: A television program that educates can also entertain.
verb (mainly tr)
- (also intr) to impart knowledge by formal instruction to (a pupil); teach
- to provide schooling for (children)I have educated my children at the best schools
- to improve or develop (a person, judgment, taste, skills, etc)
- to train for some particular purpose or occupation
mid-15c., “bring up (children), train,” from Latin educatus, past participle of educare “bring up, rear, educate,” which is related to educere “bring out, lead forth,” from ex- “out” (see ex-) + ducere “to lead” (see duke (n.)). Meaning “provide schooling” is first attested 1580s. Related: Educated; educating.