enumerate
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in a list.
Let me enumerate the many flaws in your hypothesis.
- Synonyms:
- recount , recapitulate
-
to ascertain the number of; count.
verb
-
(tr) to mention separately or in order; name one by one; list
-
(tr) to determine the number of; count
-
to compile or enter (a name or names) in a voting list for an area
Usage
What does enumerate mean? Enumerate means to name or list things one by one.Enumerate is typically used as a more formal alternative to the verb list. It emphasizes the fact that things are being specifically identified and listed one at a time.Less commonly, enumerate simply means to count. In Canada, it has a much more specific use: it means to enter names in an area’s voting list.Example: I welcome constructive criticism, but you don’t have to enumerate every single one of my mistakes in front of the rest of the people at the meeting.
Other Word Forms
- enumerable adjective
- enumeration noun
- enumerative adjective
- enumerator noun
- nonenumerative adjective
- preenumerate verb (used with object)
- reenumerate verb (used with object)
- unenumerative adjective
Etymology
Origin of enumerate
First recorded in 1640–50; from Latin ēnumerātus “counted out,” past participle of ēnumerāre “to count out,” from ē- e- 1 ( def. ) + numer(us) number + -āre, infinitive verb suffix
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“That process should look at their current risk tolerance and help enumerate their goals, both short and long term, which will help you and the adviser determine the appropriate mix of investments.”
From MarketWatch
Former federal prosecutor Jim Trusty enumerated to me in a recent podcast the more sensitive material that may be to come.
Not everyone may share in the authors’ nostalgia for the period—and the voluminously enumerated attractions of the World’s Fair.
Throughout its episodes lurk excerpts of dialogue enumerating frustration about the state of the world that could be mistaken for modern complaints.
From Salon
“The Commission has not, to date, made a determination regarding whether any such contracts involve an activity enumerated or prohibited.”
From Barron's
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
