institute

 
Pronunciation: /ˈɪnstɪtjuːt/

noun

[often in names]
  • 1an organization having a particular purpose, especially one that is involved with science, education, or a specific profession: the Institute of Architects a research institute
  • 2 (usually institutes) archaic a commentary, treatise, or summary of principles, especially concerning law: Coke’s Institutes of the Laws of England

verb

[with object]
  • 1introduce or establish (a scheme, undertaking, or policy): the state instituted a national lottery the award was instituted in 1900
  • begin (legal proceedings) in a court: she intended to institute divorce proceedings
  • 2appoint (someone) to a position, especially as a cleric: his sons were instituted to the priesthood [with complement]: a testator who has instituted his daughter heir

Origin:

Middle English (in institute (sense 2 of the verb)): from Latin institut- 'established', from the verb instituere, from in- 'in, towards' + statuere 'set up'. The noun is from Latin institutum 'something designed, precept', neuter past participle of instituere; sense 1 dates from the early 19th century