initiate

Universal Words verb, noun verb [VN] 1 (formal) to make sth begin: to initiate legal action / proceedings against sb * The government has initiated a programme of economic reform. * Bacteria then enters the wound and initiates infection. 2 ~ sb (into sth) to explain sth to sb and/or make them experience it for the first time: Many of them had been initiated into drug use at an early age. * His uncle initiated him into the pleasures of sailing. 3 ~ sb (into sth) to make sb a member of a particular group, especially as part of a secret ceremony: Hundreds are initiated into the sect each year. noun a person who has been allowed to join a particular group, organization, or religion and is learning its rules and secrets