What does predestinate mean?
The word predestinate refers to the act of deciding or decreeing something beforehand, often in a theological context. It can be used as both a verb and an adjective. As a verb, it means to foreordain or predetermine the course of events. As an adjective, it describes something that is seen as predetermined or inevitable. The concept of predestination is often associated with certain theological traditions that believe in the idea of a higher power determining the course of human events. Understanding the word predestinate can provide insight into these philosophical and theological debates. The term is often used in discussions about free will and determinism. It is a useful word for describing the idea that certain events or outcomes are predetermined and cannot be changed.
To decide or decree beforehand; to foreordain.
"The theologian believed that human fate was predestinate and could not be changed."
Often used in theological contexts.
Predetermined or foreordained.
"The novel's ending was predestinate from the beginning; there was no surprise."
Used to describe something that is seen as inevitable or predetermined.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of predestinate
The word predestinate comes from the Latin 'praedestinare', which means 'to foreordain' or 'to predetermine'. This Latin term is a combination of 'prae', meaning 'before', and 'destinare', meaning 'to determine'. The word has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the idea of deciding or decreeing something beforehand.
How predestinate is actually used
The verb form is often used in theological contexts to describe the idea that a higher power has determined the course of events. The adjective form is used to describe something that is seen as predetermined or inevitable.