predestine
UK: priːˈdɛstɪn | US: priˈdɛstɪn
vt. to determine or decree (an outcome) in advance; to foreordain
vt. (theology) to appoint or assign (a person) to a particular fate or destiny by divine will
predestine = pre<before> + destin<determine> + e<verb suffix>
- pre: From Latin prae-, meaning "before" (temporal or positional priority).
- destin: From Latin destinare ("to determine, fix, settle"), derived from de- (completely) + stanare (to make firm).
- e: A verb-forming suffix in English, often silent but marking the word as a verb.
Etymology Origin:
The word "predestine" emerged in Late Middle English via Old French prédestiner, rooted in Latin praedestinare. It combines the idea of "before" (pre) with "to settle firmly" (destin), reflecting the theological concept of divine foreordination. The term gained prominence in Christian doctrine debates about free will versus divine predestination, solidifying its meaning as "to decree in advance."
Some religious doctrines teach that God has predestined certain souls for salvation.
The ancient prophecy seemed to predestine the hero’s tragic fate.
Critics argue that socioeconomic factors can predestine children to limited opportunities.
The novel’s plot twists feel predestined, leaving no room for chance.
Philosophers have long debated whether human choices are truly free or predestined.