devotion
UK: dɪˈvəʊʃən | US: dɪˈvoʊʃən
n. deep love, loyalty, or commitment
n. religious worship or observance
n. the act of dedicating time or effort to a purpose
devotion = de<completely> + vot<dedicate> + ion<noun suffix>
- de (Latin prefix): "completely" or "down," intensifying the root meaning.
- vot (from Latin votum): "dedicate" or "vow," originally referring to solemn promises, especially in religious contexts.
- ion (noun-forming suffix): indicates an action, state, or result.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin devotionem (act of consecrating), from devovere ("to vow solemnly"). The prefix de- emphasizes totality, while votum reflects vows made to gods. Over time, "devotion" expanded from religious dedication to secular contexts, retaining its core sense of wholehearted commitment.
Her devotion to her family was unwavering.
Monks practice devotion through prayer and meditation.
The artist’s devotion to his craft earned him acclaim.
His lifelong devotion to science led to groundbreaking discoveries.
The memorial symbolizes the nation’s devotion to freedom.