Select

Definition

The word "select" means to choose something or someone from a group based on preference or criteria (verb) or describes something chosen as the best or most suitable (adjective).

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /səˈlɛkt/
• Respelling: suh-LEKT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪˈlɛkt/
• Respelling: si-LEKT

Etymology

The word "select" originates from the Latin "selectus," the past participle of "seligere," meaning "to choose." This is derived from "se-" (apart) and "legere" (to gather, choose). It entered the English language in the early 16th century.

Derivatives

• Selection (noun)
• Selector (noun)
• Selectively (adverb)
• Selectivity (noun)
• Preselect (verb)

Synonyms

• Choose
• Pick
• Elect

Antonyms

• Reject
• Exclude
• Discard

Usage

The term "select" is widely used in contexts such as decision-making, technology, and design. For example: "Please select your preferred language," and "She belongs to a select group of artists."

Related Terms

• Choice: The act of selecting among options.
• Option: A possibility or choice available.
• Preference: A greater liking for one alternative over another.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To choose from a group: Refers to the act of picking something based on specific criteria or preference.
  • Example: "The committee will select the winning proposal."
• To highlight or mark for action: Often used in technological or procedural contexts.
  • Example: "Click to select the text."

Adjective

• Chosen as the best or most suitable: Describes something considered of high quality or carefully picked.
  • Example: "Only a select group of students were admitted."
• Exclusive or elite: Refers to something limited to a particular, privileged group.
  • Example: "The gala was attended by a select audience."