Elevate

Definition

Elevate means to raise something to a higher position, level, or state. It can also refer to increasing the moral, intellectual, or emotional level of a person or group.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛləˌveɪt/
• Respelling: EL-uh-vayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛlɪˌveɪt/
• Respelling: EL-i-vayt

Etymology

The word "elevate" comes from the Latin word "elevatus," the past participle of "elevare," which means "to raise" or "to lift up." This word is composed of the prefix "e-" meaning "out of" or "from," and "levare," meaning "to lighten" or "to raise."

Derivatives

• Elevation (noun)
• Elevator (noun)
• Elevated (adjective)
• Elevating (adjective)
• Elevatorial (adjective)

Synonyms

• Raise
• Lift
• Boost

Antonyms

• Lower
• Demote
• Depress

Usage

The word "elevate" is often used in both physical and metaphorical contexts. It can refer to lifting something physically, such as elevating an object to a higher place, or metaphorically, such as elevating a person’s status or improving their intellectual or emotional well-being.

Related Terms

• Promote: To advance someone to a higher position or rank.
• Enhance: To improve the quality or value of something.
• Ascend: To move upward or rise.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To lift or raise something to a higher position: Refers to the physical action of moving an object or person to a higher place.
  • Example: "The platform will elevate the sculpture for better viewing."
• To raise the level or quality of something, such as mood or status: Refers to improving the state or condition of something or someone.
  • Example: "The award elevated his status among his peers."
• To increase in intensity or amount: Refers to heightening a factor, such as raising temperature, intensity, or significance.
  • Example: "The debate elevated in intensity as the meeting progressed."