habituate

[ huh-bich-oo-eyt ]

verb (used with object)

, ha·bit·u·at·ed, ha·bit·u·at·ing.

1. to accustom (a person, the mind, etc.), as to a particular situation:

   Wealth habituated him to luxury.

   Synonyms: train, acclimate, familiarize

2. Archaic. to frequent.

verb (used without object)

, ha·bit·u·at·ed, ha·bit·u·at·ing.

1. to cause habituation, physiologically or psychologically.

habituate

/ həˈbɪtjʊˌeɪt /

verb

1. to accustom; make used (to)
2. archaic.
   to frequent

Other Words From

• unha·bitu·ated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of habituate¹

1520–30; < Late Latin habituātus conditioned, constituted, (past participle of habituāre ), equivalent to habitu ( s ) habit ¹ + -ātus -ate ¹

Example Sentences

The authors said the urban experiences of P41, P22 and others in the study illustrate how, when faced with increased human activity, mountain lions actively seek to avoid people rather than becoming habituated to them.

From Science Daily

Sierra Madre has a mix of no harm, no foul bears and habituated bears, Wilson said.

From Los Angeles Times

The ice-free season is now about a month longer than what polar bears are habituated to.

From New York Times

“In some cases, a food conditioned, or habituated bear may become too bold and act aggressively towards people.”

From Los Angeles Times

After seeking expert veterinary advice, Desi found that Molly was "highly habituated", meaning the bird could never be returned to the wild.

From BBC

Related Words

• accustom