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.]
1. To introduce by a first act; to make a
beginning with; to set afoot; to originate; to commence; to begin or
enter upon.
How are changes of this sort to be
initiated?
I. Taylor.
2. To acquaint with the beginnings; to
instruct in the rudiments or principles; to introduce.
Providence would only initiate mankind into the
useful knowledge of her treasures, leaving the rest to employ our
industry.
Dr. H. More.
To initiate his pupil into any part of
learning, an ordinary skill in the governor is enough.
Locke.
3. To introduce into a society or
organization; to confer membership on; especially, to admit to a
secret order with mysterious rites or ceremonies.
The Athenians believed that he who was
initiated and instructed in the mysteries would obtain
celestial honor after death.
Bp. Warburton.
He was initiated into half a dozen clubs before
he was one and twenty.
Spectator.
In*i"ti*ate, v. i. To do the first
act; to perform the first rite; to take the initiative. [R.]
Pope.
In*i"ti*ate (?), a. [L.
initiatus, p. p.]
1. Unpracticed; untried; new. [Obs.]
"The initiate fear that wants hard use." Shak.
2. Begun; commenced; introduced to, or
instructed in, the rudiments; newly admitted.
To rise in science as in bliss,
Initiate in the secrets of the skies.
Young.
Initiate tenant by courtesy (Law),
said of a husband who becomes such in his wife's estate of
inheritance by the birth of a child, but whose estate is not
consummated till the death of the wife. Mozley & W.
In*i"ti*ate, n. One who is, or is
to be, initiated.
