Habitate

/ˈhæbɪteɪt/ verb

Definition

An archaic or rare verb form meaning to inhabit or dwell in a place.

Etymology

From Latin habitare ('to dwell'), used as a verb in Middle English. This form gradually fell out of use as simpler verbs like 'inhabit' and 'dwell' became preferred.

Kelly Says

Medieval English had many Latin-based verbs that sounded more learned—'habitate' fell victim to English's preference for Germanic roots, eventually replaced by 'inhabit' which had more gravitas!

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