predestine
UK[ˌpriːˈdestɪn]US[priˈdɛstən]
v
To decide or determine (an outcome or course of events) in advance by divine will or fate.
v
To ordain or appoint beforehand; to predetermine.
Morpheme Breakdown
pre
destine
pre
before
destine
to determine
Etymology
The word 'predestine' is a compound formed within English from the prefix 'pre-' and the verb 'destine'. Its ultimate roots lie in Latin: prae- (before) and destinare (to determine, fix, resolve). Destinare itself derives from de- (completely) and a root related to stanare (to make firm), connected to stare (to stand). The concept thus literally involves "firmly establishing something beforehand." This term entered theological and philosophical discourse to specifically denote the action of a divine power or fate in ordaining events, especially eternal salvation or damnation, from before the beginning of time, solidifying the abstract notion of an unalterable, pre-established outcome.
Analysis
Structure: pre (before) + destine (to determine)
- pre: A prefix of Latin origin (from Latin prae-), meaning "before" in time, place, order, or importance. It functions as a modifier indicating precedence.
- destine: A verb of Latin origin (from Latin destinare 'to make firm, establish, appoint'), meaning to set apart for a specific purpose or end. In this compound, it serves as the core lexical root.
Examples
Some religious doctrines hold that a supreme being has predestined the fate of every soul.
The ancient prophecy seemed to predestine the hero for a tragic end.
He felt his career path was predestined, following exactly in his father's footsteps.