curate

[ noun kyoor-it; verb kyoor-eyt, kyoo-reyt ]

noun

1. Chiefly British. a member of the clergy employed to assist a rector or vicar.
2. any ecclesiastic entrusted with the cure of souls, as a parish priest.

verb (used with object)

, cu·rat·ed, cu·rat·ing.

1. to take charge of (a museum) or organize (an art exhibit):

   to curate a photography show.

2. to pull together, sift through, and select for presentation, as music or website content:

   “We curate our merchandise with a sharp eye for trending fashion,” the store manager explained.

curate

¹

/ ˈkjʊərɪt /

noun

1. a clergyman appointed to assist a parish priest
2. a clergyman who has the charge of a parish ( curate-in-charge )
3. an assistant barman

curate

²

/ kjʊəˈreɪt /

verb

1. tr to be in charge of (an art exhibition or museum)

Other Words From

• cu·rat·ic [ky, oo, -, rat, -ik], cu·rat·i·cal adjective
• cu·rate·ship noun
• cu·ra·tion noun
• sub·cu·rate noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of curate¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English curat, from Anglo-French or directly from Medieval Latin cūrātus, equivalent to Latin cūr(a) “care” + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of curate¹

C14: from Medieval Latin cūrātus, from cūra spiritual oversight, cure

Origin of curate²

C20: back formation from curator

Example Sentences

It’s a natural extension of the evolving relationship between food and wine — one where both are seen as integral parts of a curated experience rather than standalone elements.

From Salon

There are still ways to stand out - the platform recommends games based on users' playing habits and regularly runs promotions which push a curated selection of games on to homepages.

From BBC

The service also curates specialized collections, including films about basketball, journalism, the Vietnam conflict, jazz music and “dead French philosophers.”

From New York Times

Fresh seasonal produce and the best collection of curated goods awaits.

From Los Angeles Times

Its doors open early and ticketholders who head downstairs will find art activities, thoughtfully curated snacks and even free fidget toys.

From New York Times