induct
in-DUHKT
/ɪnˈdʌkt/
To admit someone formally to a position or organization.
Implies a ritual or official ceremony of 'leading in'.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'inducere', meaning 'to lead in'. It shares the same origin as 'induce', but 'induct' is used for people and positions, while 'induce' is used for states of mind or physical conditions.
Word relationships
- admit: 'Admit' is general; 'induct' is formal and ceremonial.
- install: 'Install' is often used for equipment or political office.
- expel: To force someone out rather than leading them in.
Commonly confused with
- initiate: Initiate often implies a secret or private ritual; induct is usually public and official.
Word family
- induction (noun): The formal act or process of inducting someone.
- inductee (noun): A person who is being formally admitted to something.
Collocations
- induct into the army
- induct into office
- induct into a hall of fame
Example sentences
- "The legendary quarterback was inducted into the Hall of Fame last summer." Sports
Memory hook
Induct is to lead 'In' (In) to a club or group. Lead into a group.
When not to use
Don't use for just hiring someone; use it for prestigious groups or military service.
Fun facts
- In the US, 'induction' was the common term for being drafted into the military.
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