v.tr. 1 set up or consolidate (a business, system, etc.) on a permanent basis. 2 (foll. by in) settle (a person or oneself) in some capacity. 3 (esp. as established adj.) achieve permanent acceptance for (a custom, belief, practice, institution, etc.). 4 validate; place beyond dispute (a fact etc.). Established Church the Church recognized by the State as the national Church. establisher n.
[ ME f. OF establir (stem establiss-) f. L stabilire f. stabilis STABLE(1) ]