Gather

Definition

Gather is a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to bring together, collect, or assemble items, people, or information. It can also mean to increase or accumulate gradually. As a noun, it refers to a fold or puckering in fabric caused by gathering it.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɡæðɚ/
• Respelling: GATH-ur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɡæðə/
• Respelling: GATH-uh

Etymology

The word "gather" originates from Old English "gadrian," meaning "to unite or assemble," derived from Proto-Germanic "*gadōn" and Proto-Indo-European "*gʰedh-," meaning "to unite" or "join." The term evolved to include the act of collecting items or assembling people.

Derivatives

• Gathering (noun)
• Gathered (adjective/verb)
• Regather (verb)
• Gatherer (noun)
• Ungathered (adjective)

Synonyms

• Collect
• Assemble
• Accumulate

Antonyms

• Scatter
• Disperse
• Separate

Usage

The term "gather" is commonly used to describe the action of collecting items, bringing people together, or accumulating information. For example, "They gathered firewood for the camp," or "The team gathered to discuss the strategy."

Related Terms

• Collection: An assembly of items brought together.
• Assembly: A gathering of people for a purpose.
• Accumulation: The process of gradually increasing or gathering over time.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To bring together or collect items: Refers to assembling objects or entities in one place.
  • Example: "She gathered flowers from the garden."
• To assemble or bring people together: Indicates calling or gathering individuals for a purpose.
  • Example: "The manager gathered the employees for a meeting."
• To increase or accumulate gradually: Describes the process of building or intensifying.
  • Example: "The storm gathered strength as it approached."

Noun

• A fold or puckering in fabric: Refers to the gathered portions in material, typically caused by stitching or drawing it together.
  • Example: "The dress had delicate gathers at the waist."