accept
UK[əkˈsɛpt]US[əkˈsɛpt]
v
To agree to take or receive something that is offered.
v
To regard something as true, valid, or correct.
v
To admit someone into a group or institution.
Morpheme Breakdown
ad
cept
ad
to
cept
take
Etymology
The word "accept" entered English in the late 14th century from Old French accepter, which itself derived from Latin acceptare, a frequentative form of accipere. This Latin verb is a compound of ad- (to) and capere (to take), literally meaning "to take to oneself." The core semantic journey is from the physical act of taking something offered to the more abstract acts of receiving ideas, beliefs, or people with approval. This evolution reflects a shift from concrete action to intellectual or social reception, maintaining the fundamental concept of receiving what is proffered.
Analysis
Structure: ad (to) + cept (take)
- ad: Latin prefix meaning "to, toward".
- cept: From Latin root capere (to take, seize), appearing here in a past participial form.
Examples
I am pleased to accept your generous offer.
The scientific community was slow to accept the new theory.
She was accepted into the prestigious university.