Divide

Definition

Divide is a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to separate or split something into parts, groups, or sections. It can also refer to the mathematical operation of determining how many times one number is contained within another. As a noun, it represents a boundary or separation between two areas or ideas.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvaɪd/
• Respelling: dih-VYD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvaɪd/
• Respelling: dih-VYD

Etymology

The word "divide" originates from the Latin "dividere," meaning "to separate" or "split," derived from "dis-" (apart) and "videre" (to separate). It entered Middle English through Old French "divider," carrying meanings related to separation and distribution.

Derivatives

• Division (noun)
• Divisible (adjective)
• Divider (noun)
• Divisive (adjective)
• Undivided (adjective)

Synonyms

• Separate
• Split
• Partition

Antonyms

• Combine
• Unite
• Join

Usage

The term "divide" is commonly used to describe the act of separating something into distinct parts, as in "They divided the land among the heirs." It is also used in mathematics to denote the operation of finding how many times one number fits into another, such as "Divide 20 by 4."

Related Terms

• Division: The process of dividing or being divided.
• Separation: The action or state of moving or being moved apart.
• Fraction: A mathematical expression representing the division of one quantity by another.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To separate or split something into parts: Refers to the act of breaking something into sections or distinct parts.
  • Example: "The teacher divided the students into groups."
• To share or allocate something among several people: Refers to distributing something between individuals or groups.
  • Example: "They divided the profits equally."
• To perform the mathematical operation of division: Used in arithmetic to find how many times one number is contained within another.
  • Example: "To solve the problem, divide 30 by 5."

Noun

• A boundary or separation between areas or concepts: Refers to a dividing line, either physical or conceptual.
  • Example: "The mountain range forms a natural divide between the regions."