Dedicate \Ded"i*cate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Dedicated; p. pr. & vb. n. Dedicating.]

1. To set apart and consecrate, as to a divinity, or for sacred uses; to devote formally and solemnly; as, to dedicate vessels, treasures, a temple, or a church, to a religious use.

Vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, . . . which also king David did dedicate unto the Lord. --2 Sam. viii. 10, 11.

We have come to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. . . . But in a larger sense we can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow this ground. --A. Lincoln.

2. To devote, set apart, or give up, as one's self, to a duty or service.

The profession of a soldier, to which he had dedicated himself. --Clarendon.

3. To inscribe or address, as to a patron.

He complied ten elegant books, and dedicated them to the Lord Burghley. --Peacham.

Syn: See Addict.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)