Main Entry:

pro·vide

Pronunciation:

\prə-ˈvīd\

Function:

verb

Inflected Form(s):

pro·vid·ed; pro·vid·ing

Etymology:

Middle English, from Latin providēre, literally, to see ahead, from pro- forward + vidēre to see — more at pro-, wit

Date:

15th century

intransitive verb1: to take precautionary measures <provide for the common defense — United States Constitution>2: to make a proviso or stipulation <the Constitution…provides for an elected two-chamber legislature — Current Biography>3: to make preparation to meet a need <provide for entertainment> ; especially : to supply something for sustenance or support <provides for the poor>transitive verb1archaic : to prepare in advance2 a: to supply or make available (something wanted or needed) <provided new uniforms for the band> ; also : afford <curtains provide privacy> b: to make something available to <provide the children with free balloons>3: to have as a condition : stipulate <the contract provides that certain deadlines will be met>