Destines

/dɛˈstaɪnz/ verb

Definition

Determines or decides what will happen to someone or something in the future; marks something as intended for a particular purpose.

Etymology

From Old French 'destiner,' derived from Latin 'destinare' (to make firm, establish), combining 'de-' (completely) and 'stinare' (to set up). The meaning evolved from 'to establish firmly' to 'to predetermine fate' by the 13th century.

Kelly Says

The word 'destine' carries the fascinating assumption that someone or something can be *predetermined*, which is why it appears so often in literature about fate—yet it's also used casually when we say a product is 'destined for greatness,' mixing destiny with human marketing!

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