SINCE 1828
rote
noun (1)
\ ˈrōt
\
\
Definition of rote
(Entry 1 of 4)
1
: the use of memory usually with little intelligence
learn by rote
2
: mechanical or unthinking routine or repetition
a joyless sense of order, rote, and commercial hustle— L. L. King
rote
adjectiveDefinition of rote (Entry 2 of 4)
1
: learned or memorized by rote
rote
noun (2)Definition of rote (Entry 3 of 4)
rote
noun (3)Definition of rote (Entry 4 of 4)
: the noise of surf on the shore
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for rote
rote
noun
\ ˈrōt
\
\
Kids Definition of rote
: the act of repeating over and over often without attention to meaning
I learned the poem by rote.
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on rote
What made you want to look up rote? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Original Meanings Quiz
-
- Which of the following is the earliest known sense of the word awe?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Original Meanings Quiz
A quiz for the pedantic and those annoyed by them!
Take the quiz -
A Green Quiz
How many questions can you answer about the word "green"?
Take the quiz -
Name That Thing
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
Take the quiz -
SCRABBLE® Sprint
SCRABBLE® fans, sharpen your skills!
Play the game
Share rote
Resources for rote