Teach

Definition

Teach refers to the act of imparting knowledge, skills, or information to someone, typically through instruction, guidance, or demonstration.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tiːtʃ/
• Respelling: TEETCH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tiːtʃ/
• Respelling: TEETCH

Etymology

The word "teach" originates from Old English "tæcan," meaning "to show, point out, or give instruction," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "taikijan," meaning "to show or explain." Its root traces back to the Proto-Indo-European "*deik-," meaning "to point out."

Derivatives

• Teacher (noun)
• Teaching (noun/adjective)
• Teachability (noun)
• Teachable (adjective)
• Reteach (verb)

Synonyms

• Instruct
• Educate
• Train

Antonyms

• Learn
• Ignore
• Neglect

Usage

The verb "teach" is commonly used in educational contexts, such as "She loves to teach mathematics to high school students." It can also refer to guiding someone in non-academic settings, for example, "He taught his children how to fish."

Related Terms

• Learn: To acquire knowledge or skills through instruction or experience.
• Instruct: To provide directions or teaching to someone.
• Guide: To show or direct someone in a particular way.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To impart knowledge or skills to someone: Refers to helping someone learn or understand through instruction.
  • Example: "She was hired to teach English at the local school."
• To demonstrate or explain how to do something: Refers to showing someone how to perform a specific task or activity.
  • Example: "He taught me how to bake bread."
• To cause someone to learn or understand through experience: Describes imparting knowledge indirectly, often through life lessons.
  • Example: "Life has taught her the value of patience."