subsidise
UK: ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz | US: ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz
vt. to provide financial support or assistance (typically by a government or organization)
vt. to artificially lower the cost of a commodity or service through financial aid
subsidise = sub<under> + sid<sit> + ise<verb suffix>
- sub<under>: From Latin sub-, meaning "under" or "below."
- sid<sit>: From Latin sidere (related to sedere, "to sit"), implying stability or support.
- ise<verb suffix>: A verb-forming suffix of Greek/Latin origin, indicating action.
Etymology Origin:
The word subsidise originates from Latin subsidium ("support, reserve troops"), combining sub- ("under") and sedere ("to sit"). Historically, it referred to troops stationed in reserve, ready to provide backup. By the 17th century, it evolved to mean financial backing, reflecting the idea of "sitting beneath" (i.e., supporting) an endeavor. The -ise suffix standardizes it as a verb in British English (-ize in American English).
The government plans to subsidise renewable energy projects.
Farmers are often subsidised to stabilise food prices.
Critics argue that subsidising fossil fuels contradicts climate goals.
The arts programme was subsidised by private donors.
Without being subsidised, public transport fares would rise significantly.