Constitute Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/kɑnˈstɪtjuːt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To make up or form something, either physically or abstractly; to establish or determine something as being; or to compose something from its constituent parts.

Examples

• The company was constituted as a non-profit organization.
• The team was constituted with six new members.

Synonyms

• Form
• Establish
• Organize

Antonyms

• Disintegrate
• Dismantle

Additonal Information

In a broader sense, to constitute something means to bring it into being or to make it exist. This can be done through physical action, such as constructing a building, or through abstract means, such as creating a new idea or concept. Constituting something often involves defining its boundaries and parameters, such as determining the scope of a project or outlining the rules of a game.

Etymology

The word “constitute” comes from the Latin “constituere,” which means “to set up” or “to establish.” This Latin verb is derived from “con-” (meaning “together”) and “statuere” (meaning “to set up” or “to establish”).

Usage Notes

In formal or technical contexts, such as law, medicine, or science, the word “constitute” is often used to describe the process of creating or defining something. For example, a team of lawyers might “constitute” a new corporation by filing the necessary paperwork, while a scientist might “constitute” a new compound by combining different elements.

Cultural References

The word “constitute” has been used in various cultural references, such as in literature, music, and film. For example, in the novel “1984” by George Orwell, the character Winston Smith is described as “constituting” a rebellion against the government.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “constitute” include “to constitute a threat” (meaning to pose a danger or risk), “to constitute a majority” (meaning to have more than half of something, such as votes), and “to constitute a new relationship” (meaning to establish or create a new connection).

Related Words or Phrases

Words or phrases that are closely related to “constitute” include “form,” “establish,” “organize,” “set up,” and “define.” These words all share the idea of creating or bringing something into being, either physically or abstractly.

Collocations

Some common collocations with the word “constitute” include “to constitute a group,” “to constitute a majority,” “to constitute a threat,” and “to constitute a new organization.”

Frequency of Use

The word “constitute” is relatively infrequently used in modern language, particularly outside of formal or technical contexts. However, it is still a useful word for conveying the idea of creating or establishing something.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of “constitute” include “constutite,” “constitutee,” “constituito,” and “constittute.” It’s important to double-check the spelling of this word to ensure accuracy.