predispose
UK: ˌpriːdɪˈspəʊz | US: ˌpriːdɪˈspoʊz
vt. to make someone more likely to behave or think in a particular way
vt. to make someone more susceptible to a condition or influence
predispose = pre<before> + dis<apart> + pose<place>
- pre: From Latin prae-, meaning "before." Indicates prior action or tendency.
- dis: From Latin dis-, meaning "apart" or "in different directions." Suggests separation or alteration.
- pose: From Latin ponere, meaning "to place." Implies positioning or arranging.
Etymology Origin:
The word "predispose" combines Latin roots to describe a state of being inclined or susceptible before exposure to a specific influence. The morphemes pre- (before) and dis- (apart) modify pose (place), creating the idea of "placing someone in advance toward a particular outcome." Historically, it evolved in medical and psychological contexts to describe inherent susceptibility (e.g., "predisposed to illness").
Genetics may predispose individuals to certain diseases.
His upbringing predisposed him to distrust authority.
Early exposure to art can predispose children to creative thinking.
The treaty was designed to predispose nations toward peaceful resolutions.
A sugary diet predisposes many to obesity.