Inform \In*form"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Informed; p. pr. & vb.
n. Informing.]
[OE. enformen, OF. enformer, F. informer. L.
informare; pref. in- in + formare to form, share, fr. forma
form. See Form.]
1. To give form or share to; to give vital ororganizing power
to; to give life to; to imbue and actuate with vitality;
to animate; to mold; to figure; to fashion.
``The informing Word.'' --Coleridge.
Let others better mold the running mass Of metals,
and inform the breathing brass. --Dryden.
Breath informs this fleeting frame. --Prior.
Breathes in our soul,informs our mortal part.
--Pope.
2. To communicate knowledge to; to make known to; to
acquaint; to advise; to instruct; to tell; to notify; to
enlighten; -- usually followed by of.
For he would learn their business secretly, And then
inform his master hastily. --Spenser.
I am informed thoroughky of the cause. --Shak.
3. To communicate a knowledge of facts to,by way of
accusation; to warn against anybody.
Tertullus . . . informed the governor against Paul.
--Acts xxiv.
1.
Syn: To acquaint; apprise; tell; teach; instruct; enlighten;
animate; fashion.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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