concentrate

/ˈkɒn.sən.tɹeɪt/

KⱰN · sən · tɹeɪt (3 syllables)

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Definition

To bring to, or direct toward, a common center; to unite more closely; to gather into one body, mass, or force.

Etymology

(early 17th century) From a Romance language, see French concentrer, Italian concentràre, Spanish concentrar; alternatively from Medieval Latin/New Latin concentrō + -ate (verb-forming suffix). Compare also earlier concentre and German konzentrieren. By surface analysis, con- + center (centr- in compounds) + -ate (verb-forming suffix).

Example Sentences

  • "to concentrate rays of light into a focus"
  • "to concentrate the attention"
  • "to concentrate acid by evaporation"
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