Provide

/prəˈvaɪd/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To supply or make available something needed or wanted.
The organization aims to provide assistance to families in need.
To furnish or equip someone with a particular service or thing.
The hotel provides guests with complimentary breakfast.
To make arrangements for someone or something.
The teacher will provide the materials necessary for the project.
To prepare for; to make provisions.
It's important to provide for your future by saving money.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin ‘providere’ meaning 'to foresee, to prepare.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

provide for
to make arrangements in advance for someone’s needs.
provide with
to give someone what is needed.
provide access
to ensure that someone can enter or use something.

Related Words

provider
a person or organization that supplies something.
provision
the action of providing or supplying something.

Slang Meanings

hook up
Can you hook me up with some extra cash?
set up
He'll set you up with an internship at his company.