Collaborate

Definition

Collaborate means to work jointly on an activity or project, especially in an intellectual endeavor. It can also refer to cooperating with an enemy occupying one's country.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈlæbəˌreɪt/
• Respelling: kuh-LAB-uh-rayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈlæbəreɪt/
• Respelling: kuh-LAB-uh-rayt

The pronunciation of "collaborate" is nearly identical in both American and British English, with slight differences in the stress and rhythm of the word.

Etymology

The word "collaborate" comes from the Late Latin "collaborare," meaning "to work together," which is composed of "com-" (together) and "laborare" (to work). It was first used in the English language in the mid-19th century.

Derivatives

• Collaboration (noun)
• Collaborator (noun)
• Collaborative (adjective)
• Collaboratively (adverb)
• Co-labor (verb)

Synonyms

• Cooperate
• Partner
• Join forces

Antonyms

• Compete
• Oppose
• Resist

Usage

The word "collaborate" is frequently used in both professional and academic contexts. For example, "The scientists will collaborate on a new research project," or "Artists from different genres decided to collaborate on an album." It can also carry a negative connotation when referring to cooperation with an enemy force.

Related Terms

• Synergy: The interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual elements.
• Alliance: A union or association formed for mutual benefit, especially between countries or organizations.
• Partnership: The state of being a partner or partners in an endeavor.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To work together on an activity, especially to produce or create something: Refers to the joint effort by two or more people or entities to achieve a common goal.
  • Example: "The two companies agreed to collaborate on the development of new software."
• To cooperate with an enemy: Refers to cooperating with an occupying force, often in a context that implies betrayal or treason.
  • Example: "Some citizens were accused of collaborating with the invaders during the war."