constitute

IPA

Dictionary definition of constitute

To form, establish, or compose something, often by combining various elements or parts to create a whole.
"The students constitute the majority of the school population."

Detailed meaning of constitute

When something constitutes something else, it essentially makes up or comprises an essential component of that entity or system. For example, in a legal context, laws and regulations can constitute the framework for a society's governance. In a broader sense, individuals or elements can constitute a group, team, or organization, meaning they are the essential components that define or make up that collective entity. This term underscores the idea of creating or defining through the assembly or inclusion of various elements, whether they are physical, conceptual, or organizational, into a meaningful and functional whole.

Example sentences containing constitute

1. The ingredients constitute the recipe for a delicious cake.
2. Laws and regulations constitute the framework of society.
3. Different cultures constitute the vibrant tapestry of our world.
4. Individual contributions constitute the success of the team.
5. Her actions constitute a breach of trust in the organization.
6. These findings constitute a breakthrough in medical research.

History and etymology of constitute

The verb 'constitute' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'constituere,' which is a compound of 'con-' and 'statuere.' 'Con-' in Latin denotes 'together,' and 'statuere' means 'to set' or 'to establish.' Therefore, 'constituere' essentially means 'to set together' or 'to establish by combining.' This etymology accurately reflects the meaning of 'constitute' as a verb used to form, establish, or compose something, often by combining various elements or parts to create a whole. It conveys the idea of bringing together distinct components to establish or compose a unified entity, echoing the concept of setting and establishing that is inherent in its Latin roots.

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Further usage examples of constitute

1. The team's diverse skills constitute their competitive edge.
2. The chapters together constitute a captivating novel.
3. Healthy habits constitute a foundation for well-being.
4. Various factors constitute the complexity of the issue.
5. The orchestra's musicians constitute a talented ensemble.
6. The cells in our body constitute intricate systems.
7. These incidents constitute a pattern of behavior.
8. The documents will constitute evidence in the trial.
9. The team's dedication will constitute a winning season.
10. Different beliefs constitute the diversity of our society.
11. Cultural traditions constitute our rich heritage.
12. The particles constitute matter in the universe.
13. The colorful strokes constitute a vibrant painting.
14. Positive affirmations constitute a powerful mindset shift.
15. The DNA sequences constitute the genetic makeup of an individual.
16. The five basic food groups constitute a balanced diet.
17. The board of directors constitutes the decision-making body of the company.
18. The chemicals present in the air constitute the air quality.
19. The team's hard work and dedication constitute their success.
20. The different colors and shapes constitute the beauty of the flower garden.
21. The three branches of government constitute the US political system.
22. The ingredients constitute the recipe for the perfect cake.
23. The letters and punctuation marks constitute the English language.
24. The various planets and stars constitute the universe.
25. The committee constituted of experts in the field.