v.
Pronunciation: pr ə - ' v ī d
Function: verb
Inflected Form: pro · vid · ed ; pro · vid · ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin provid ē re, literally, to see ahead, from pro- forward + vid ē re to see ― more at PRO- , WIT
Date: 15th century
intransitive verb
1 : to take precautionary measures < provide for the common defense ― U.S. Constitution >
2 : to make a proviso or stipulation <the Constitution ⋯ provide s for an elected two-chamber legislature ― Current Biog. >
3 : to make preparation to meet a need < provide for entertainment> especially : to supply something for sustenance or support < provide s 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 provide s that certain deadlines will be met>