devoted
UK[dɪˈvəʊtɪd]US[dɪˈvoʊtɪd]
adj
Very loving or loyal.
adj
Given over to the service, study, or worship of something; dedicated.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
vote
ed
de
completely
vote
to vow
ed
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'devoted' originates from the Latin verb 'devovere', meaning "to consecrate by a vow, to dedicate solemnly". This verb is composed of the intensive prefix 'de-' and 'vovere', meaning "to vow". The concept traveled through Old French before entering Middle English as 'devoten', carrying the sense of being set apart for a sacred purpose. Over time, the meaning broadened from a formal religious dedication to encompass any profound commitment or loyalty, whether to a person, cause, or activity, capturing the state of being wholly given over through a figurative vow.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + vote (to vow) + ed (adjective suffix)
- de: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "completely, down from, away".
- vote: From Latin votum, meaning "a vow, a wish, a promise". The English spelling reflects the verb 'to vow' or 'to devote'.
- ed: Old English origin, a suffix forming past participles and adjectives indicating a state or condition.
Examples
She is a devoted mother who always puts her children first.
He was a devoted follower of the artist's work, collecting every piece.
The volunteers are devoted to the cause of animal welfare.