Dedicate Meaning
Dedicate Definition & Usage
To devote or commit time, energy, or resources to a particular activity, cause, or person.
Examples
- "She dedicated her life to helping those in need."
- "He dedicated years of research to solving the problem of climate change."
- "The artist dedicated the painting to her late mother."
- "He dedicated his speech to the memory of his mentor."
- "They dedicated every weekend to volunteering at the shelter."
To officially assign or reserve something for a specific purpose, often in a formal ceremony.
Examples
- "The new library was dedicated in a grand ceremony last week."
- "The monument was dedicated to the heroes who fought in the war."
- "A new wing of the hospital was dedicated to the memory of the founder."
- "The sports center was dedicated by the mayor during the opening event."
- "A plaque was placed at the entrance, dedicating the space to the community."
To consecrate or set apart something or someone for religious purposes.
Examples
- "The child was dedicated to God in a special ceremony at the church."
- "The priest dedicated the altar before the mass began."
- "The building was dedicated as a place of worship."
- "The temple was dedicated to the goddess of wisdom."
- "The community gathered to dedicate the new chapel to its founders."
Cultural Context
The term 'dedicate' originates from the Latin 'dedicatus', meaning 'to declare, consecrate, or devote'. It carries a strong connotation of commitment or honor, often linked with emotional or ceremonial significance.
The Heart of the Cause
Story
The Heart of the Cause
Sophie had always been passionate about social justice. Since her early years, she'd been committed to helping those less fortunate, and as she grew older, that commitment only deepened. But it wasn't just a passing interest—it was a lifelong dedication that guided her every decision. She'd moved to a small town with the hopes of making a significant impact. There, she found herself working long hours in the local shelter, organizing charity events, and rallying the community to stand up for the marginalized. One winter evening, as she stayed late at the shelter, her colleague Mark came in, carrying boxes of donated goods. 'You're really dedicated, Sophie. I don't think anyone else would be here this late.' Sophie looked up from the pile of paperwork she had been sorting. 'It's not about working late, Mark. It's about knowing that what we do makes a difference.' The next day, the shelter held a formal ceremony, where the mayor dedicated the newly renovated building in honor of the volunteers who had worked tirelessly to make it a reality. Sophie felt a sense of pride as she stood there, surrounded by her colleagues, listening to the mayor's words. 'This shelter is dedicated to those who need it most, and to the countless volunteers who make it possible every day.' That night, Sophie reflected on the journey that had brought her here. It was more than just a job—it was a mission she'd dedicated her life to. Whether she was cleaning up after an event, coordinating donations, or providing comfort to someone in need, she was giving herself fully to a cause that felt bigger than her. Sophie smiled softly as she glanced around the shelter. It was a space that was truly dedicated to something meaningful. As the months passed, her dedication to the cause never wavered, and the shelter grew stronger with each passing year. And Sophie knew that her work, just like the building, was dedicated not only to the community but to the values she held dear: compassion, service, and justice.
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