induction
Meaning
The process of introducing someone to a new job, skill, or organization
A method of logical reasoning that involves forming a general rule from specific examples
The production of an electric or magnetic state in an object by bringing it near another electrified or magnetized object
The process of causing a woman to start giving birth using drugs or other medical means
Structure
Usage
All new employees must attend a two-day induction course.
Scientific discoveries are often made by a process of induction from experimental data.
The principle of electromagnetic induction is fundamental to electric generators.
Etymology
The word 'induction' originates from the Latin inductionem, the noun of action from inducere, meaning "to lead in, bring in, introduce". This verb itself is a compound of the prefix in- ("into") and the verb ducere ("to lead"). The core semantic thread of "leading into" is preserved across its modern meanings. In logic, it describes leading into a general conclusion from specific premises. In physics, it refers to leading or introducing an electrical or magnetic state into an object. The ceremonial or procedural sense of being formally led into a new role or organization is the most direct descendant of the original Latin meaning.
Analysis
- in: Latin prefix meaning "in, into, on, upon". - duct: From Latin ducere, meaning "to lead". - ion: Latin suffix forming nouns of action or state.