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 verb 1 : 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 verb 1 archaic : to prepare in advance
2 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>