Invite

Definition

Invite is a verb that means to request someone’s presence at an event, gathering, or occasion. It can also mean to prompt or encourage an action, feeling, or response. As a noun, it refers to an invitation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /ɪnˈvaɪt/
• Respelling (verb): in-VITE
• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /ˈɪnvaɪt/
• Respelling (noun): IN-vite

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /ɪnˈvaɪt/
• Respelling (verb): in-VITE
• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /ˈɪnvaɪt/
• Respelling (noun): IN-vite

Etymology

The word "invite" originates from the Latin "invitare," meaning "to invite or summon," which is derived from "in-" (toward) and "vitare" (to summon or call). It entered Middle English in the 15th century through Old French "inviter."

Derivatives

• Invitation (noun)
• Inviting (adjective)
• Reinvite (verb)
• Uninvited (adjective)
• Inviter (noun)

Synonyms

• Summon
• Request
• Encourage

Antonyms

• Refuse
• Reject
• Dissuade

Usage

The verb "invite" is commonly used to describe asking someone to participate in an event, e.g., "She invited her friends to the party." As a noun, it refers to a formal request, such as "I received an invite to the wedding." The term can also metaphorically mean to provoke or attract, e.g., "His actions invited criticism."

Related Terms

• Host: A person who invites and entertains guests.
• Summon: To call someone to be present.
• Proposal: A suggestion or plan, often involving an invitation to act.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To request someone’s presence at an event or gathering: Refers to asking someone to join or attend.
  • Example: "She invited her colleagues to dinner."
• To prompt or encourage an action or response: Refers to causing a reaction or event to occur.
  • Example: "The proposal invited further discussion."

Noun

• An invitation: Refers to a formal or informal request to participate in an event or activity.
  • Example: "He received an invite to the conference."